If You Were Me and Lived in... South Korea: An Introduction to Learning about Other Cultures

If You Were Me and Lived in… cultural series #3

by Carole P. Roman

Carole P. Roman takes you on a journey this time to Asia, landing in South Korea. Once again, children can learn how life is like for young people on the other side of the globe. From food to famous landmarks, they will learn that's it's easy to find something in common with people in different countries.

Genres: Childrens, Picture Books, Cultural

29 pages, Paperback

First published June 14, 2013

About the author

Carole P. Roman is the award-winning author of over fifty children's books. Whether it's pirates, princesses, or discovering the world around us, her books have enchanted educators, parents, and her diverse audience of children. She hosts a blog radio program called Indie Authors Roundtable and is one of the founders of the magazine, Indie Author's Monthly. She's been interviewed twice by Forbes Magazine. Carole has co-authored two self-help books. Navigating Indieworld: A Beginners Guide to Self-Publishing and Marketing with Julie A. Gerber, and Marketing Indieworld with both Julie A. Gerber and Angela Hausman. She published Mindfulness for Kids with J. Robin Albertson-Wren and a new joke book called The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids: 800+ Jokes!
She writes adult fiction under the name Brit Lunden and is currently helping to create an anthology with her mythical town of Bulwark, Georgia with a group of indie authors. She lives on Long Island near her children and grandchildren.

Her series includes:
Captain No Beard
If You Were Me and Lived in- Cultural
If You Were Me and Lived in- Historical
Nursery series
Oh Susannah- Early Reader and coloring book
Mindfulness for Kids with co-author J. Robin Albertson-Wren
The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids; 800 plus Jokes!
Navigating Indieworld- with co-author Julie A. Gerber
Marketing Indieworld- with co-authors Angela Hausman and Julie A. Gerber
Adult Fiction under the pen name Brit Lunden
Bulwark
The Knowing- A Bulwark Anthology

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

My daughter just started Tae Kwon Do lessons and the timing of reading this book couldn't have been better. She's even more excited about the sport now. Love this book.

[Miranda Reads (back from hiatus) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute book about South Korea told from the perspective of a child.

We learn a little about the geography before transitioning into common names and cultural norms that many South Koreans experience.

I think this was a quick read, but also a nice introduction to the country.

with thanks to the author for a free copy in exchange for an honest review

YouTube | Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Snapchat @miranda_reads

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been reading across the blogosphere laments about the lack of diversity in children’s picture books, so it was quite opportunistic when I came across the new educational picture book series, If You Were Me and Lived in … by Carole P. Roman. I have had the pleasure of reading one of the books in the series, If You Were Me and Lived in … South Korea, but there are two other books in the series (Mexico and France). I must admit that almost all of the information contained in the book was completely new to me, so I can say without reservation that parents are just as likely as their children to learn something about different cultures through these books.

I was very impressed with the diversity of topics covered in this book. The book begins by showing where South Korea is located on the globe so that children can identify its geographical location. The book then goes on to describe various aspects of the South Korean culture including specific foods, language, currency, language, landmarks, activities, holidays, and more. Importantly, the amount of information is not overwhelming. On the contrary, it is succinct and to the point. For example, here is the introduction of a couple Korean words:

When you call your mommy, you would say Omma. When you address your father, his name would be Appa.

The illustrations are detailed and colourful and seem perfectly suited to the text. The pictures all centre around two Korean children, a young brother and sister, and their family which includes a younger sibling, their mother, father, grandmother, and grandfather. The pictures show the two children living their day-to-day life in South Korea as the text introduces readers to basic elements of their culture. There are short paragraphs accompanying the pictures so I think even young readers’ attention will be maintained throughout.

My Bottom Line:

If You Were Me and Lived in … South Korea is a fun and educational book centred around the exploration of various aspects of a specific culture from the perspective of a child. All the books in the series feature colourful, kid-friendly illustrations to accompany the short and concise descriptions of South Korean food, language, holidays, and more. I highly recommend this non-fiction series to parents, grandparents, librarians, and teachers who wish to introduce cultural diversity to children aged 3 years and older.

* I was given this book free-of-charge by the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

[M.M. Hudson · Rating 5 out of 5]

In her third installment of the "If You Were Me and Lived In..." series, this time author Carole P. Roman takes us to South Korea.

As in the other two books, the adventure begins by illustrating to children where in the world the country is. From there it is on to the capital of Seoul with a small history lesson but nothing too much to bog the young child's mind.

"If You Were Me and Lived In South Korea" follows along with names of people and places to see. Also included this time is a holiday celebrated by the people, what clothes they would wear and what presents they might receive. The end of the book once again has a vocabulary of words with pronunciations. I do find that to be quite handy. The illustrations are bold, lively and colorful.

What makes this book even more interesting is that it is dedicated to some special ladies from South Korea, whom Carole P. Roman knows personally, that inspired her to write this particular selection. Ms. Roman discusses this on her blog, with photos of the women. I will leave that to you to discover on your own.

This book:5 Stars!

~Naila Moon

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book for my open and honest opinion. The words here are 100% my own.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

About The Book:

Carole P. Roman takes you on a journey this time to Asia, landing in South Korea. Once again, children can learn how life is like for young people on the other side of the globe. From food to famous landmarks, they will learn that's it's easy to find something in common with people in different countries.

My Review:

Third times the charm with Carole P. Roman's book, If You Were Me And Lived In South Korea. I never knew there was so many interesting things to learn about South Korea. I would love to be there on the Lunar New Year, getting to see the hanboks and eating festive foods. It really looks like a fun place!!! I loved the picture of the capital city, Seoul. The picture does a wonderful job showing how Seoul is built on the banks of the Hans River. This is the third book in the series A Child's Introduction to Cultures Around the World. I hope Carole comes out with another book in this series because I love reading these books.


About The Author:

Award winning author Carole P. Roman is a former teacher turned businesswoman. She has successfully run a family business with her husband that employs close to five hundred people. Her most favorite job is being grandmother to her many grandchildren. Roman has two wonderful sons and hit the jackpot in the daughter-in-law department. She currently lives on Long Island with her husband. Her first book, Captain No Beard - An Imaginary Tale of a Pirate's Life has been named to Kirkus Reviews' Best of 2012 as well garnered the star of remarkable merit. Captain No Beard has developed in a series of 3 more books. Her next project is the book series I Want To Do Yoga Too. She is currently working on a new educational series that explores different cultures from a child's point of view.

Disclosure: This book was given to me for free by the Author for my honest review.

[Jalynn Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

About the Book:

Carole P. Roman takes you on a journey this time to Asia, landing in South Korea. Once again, children can learn how life is like for young people on the other side of the globe. From food to famous landmarks, they will learn that's it's easy to find something in common with people in different countries.
About the Author:

Award winning author and former social studies teacher, Carole P. Roman once again takes young readers on a journey around the world. Author of the highly successful Captain No Beard series, she lives on Long Island with her husband and near her children and grandchildren.



My Review:

Carol P. Roman has done it again with a great children's book centered around South Korea and its very unique culture. She has taken special care to show us all about life there in her delightful book, If You Were Me And Lived In South Korea.

Upon reading the book your child will be introduced to many new places and many South Korean words that they may have never heard of. She speaks of different tourist attractions there. The author tells us about different foods enjoyed there. South Korea has many different hobbies and interests there that are similar to some of those in America. Their culture is very rich in time honored traditions as well.

The author as included a pronunciation page in the back of the book to help your child learn to say the South Korean words more efficiently.

Carole P. Roman is an outstanding author. We love her books in our home. This one comes from her learning about other cultures series.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.

[Athena Nagel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have had the great opportunity to review quite a few of Carole's books and I love them all. I subscribed my children to Little Passports world edition and we are spending our summer learning about so many places around the world. Carole's books are an excellent addition to our studies and learning process. These books have just enough interesting information to entertain children but not so much that they will shy away thinking it is too much work. I call it their accidental learning. If you have not read any of these books with your children you should consider it. They are awesome and entertaining.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Melanie Adkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another in the If You Were Me.. Series. This time we take the children to South Korea. It allows children who may never get the chance to travel, a look inside another country. Traditions, Korean words and general fun facts create another educational masterpiece.

Carole P. Roman has struck gold with this series. I love that children can learn a little about so many countries. It's easy to understand and shares facts they would be interested in. It's aimed right at the inquisitive young mind.

I didn't find any issues.

I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5!
~Copy of book provided by author in exchange for a fair review~

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book tells children about the children in South Korea in a simple easy to understand way that teaches them words and culture. The back of the book has pronunciations for South Korean words that adds to the enjoyment of learning. A brother and sister guide you through their world of the things all children enjoy doing. Very good as an education tool and a book children will enjoy.

[Chris The Story Reading Ape · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Korean food so was glad to see bulgogi & kimchi are mentioned.
I was surprised to realise that although I knew the most common Family names, I had never learned any first names until reading this book. (All written as English speakers would say them)
The colour drawings are still the great quality typical of this series.

See my review also at:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/product-revie...

http://www.amazon.com/you-were-lived-...

http://www.amazon.ca/product-reviews/...

http://www.amazon.com.au/product-revi...

[Autumn · Rating 5 out of 5]

We received this book to give an honest review.

We have learned so much from this wonderful series. From what other people call their parents in their native language, to what they eat, what they play with and so much more. South Korea is just an amazing place filled with so much cool things to do that me and K would love to experience what it is like to live there. And with this book we got to experience it from reading in our own home. K has learned how to semi-pronounce some of the words and likes to guess what the word being told in a different language means. This is a great book and series to not only have at home but also in school.

[Mary Rrodriguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good book for children that helps educate about different culters and countries; the third book in the series.

[Gayle Pace · Rating 5 out of 5]

REVIEW:

This is the third book of the "IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN..." series, the author, Carole P. Roman takes us on an adventure to South Korea. The journey begins with the author showing children where the country of South Korea is. A brother and sister take you through their world showing the things all children enjoy in their world. The book is not only fun and interesting but educational.Then we go on to Seoul, the capital, and a small lesson in the history of the country. The author never overwhelms the child with too much information.

The book contains places to see and some names of people. In this book there is a celebrated holiday,the clothes they wore and presents they would receive. One thing I thought was quite useful was the vocabulary of words and pronunciations at the end of the book. Ms. Roman never fails to make an interesting and educational book for the wee ones. The illustrations in the book are so colorful and children respond well to colors. The book is dedicated to some special friends of Ms. Roman who are from South Korea. You can find more information and pictures at Ms. Roman's blog. I think this book should be read by the young and the young at heart. Maybe the wee ones can't read but they can be read to. That's how they learn. If you have little ones in your home or grandchildren, pull them onto your lap and show them the wonderful, colorful illustrations and read the story to t hem. The author, Carole P. Roman writes wonderful, interesting, colorful and enjoyable books, with a little education put in. Children will love these books.

I would give this book a solid 5 STARS.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, Carole P. Roman for this unbiased review.



Merged review:

REVIEW

As any parent knows, little ones are always ready for something new. This book takes them to Norway,known as the Land of the Rising Sun, on an adventure that they don't have to leave home for.I've had the privilege of reading and reviewing several of Ms. Roman's books. She s=is a marvelous children's book writer. She writes and uses pictures that little ones can understand. Ms. Roman's books are a learning lesson written into a fun adventure. This book is about Norway and their cultures. If you lived in the capital city called Oslo yours child will find so may lakes and two rivers. Children will learn about the culture, foods, holidays and the clothing the wear in Norway.The author wrote with simple, easy to understand sentences. You may be surprised at how children pick up and retain about things, especially when it is written at their level. The book is just long enough that the child can learn and yet not become bored. The pictures allows the child to feel as they are with the people of Norway. Ms. Roman has such a talent to write these children's books on their level. We need more writers like her. Children have to learn at an early age, that means being able to read at a good proficiently level. Thanks Ms. Roman for your talent and sharing it with us and our little ones. Every little one should sit down with momma or daddy and read about people form another country.

I would give this book 5 STARS.

I as given a complimentary copy of IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN NORWAY by Carole P. Roman for my unbiased review.

[Vera Godley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I previously reviewed the first two books in Social Studies teacher and award-winning author, Carole P. Roman's series "If You Were Me and Lived in ......." (A Child's Introduction to Cultures) The first two books were about France and Mexico. Today we're going to look at her newest "If You Were Me and Lived in South Korea." (Read that review here)

In today's world where people are traveling with much more frequency than ever in the past and even in America where we are seeing much more interaction with the various cultures and peoples of other nations, it is of vital importance that children learn about the countries, people, and customs around the world. I have felt for a long time that there is a dearth of knowledge of the geography of this world and "social studies" - or study of people and cultures - in our educational system. So the introduction of this little series for the young child is a welcome change in that which has been so lacking.

As in the two previous books, an introduction to South Korea features a young brother and sister and their family. You learn the South Korean language names for mama and papa, you will learn of their special holiday, and the names of some foods. There is a glossary in the back so you can see the words and begin to learn a bit about their language. The illustrations are consistent with those of the others in the series yet lend a distinction peculiar to the country about which this book teaches - South Korea.

Carole Roman is dedicated to helping children learn - good conduct, good behavior, and social studies. Her interest in children learning is further illustrated in her generosity in providing copies for families to read to their children. So be sure you enter to win a copy If You Were Me and Lived in South Korea.

DISCLOSURE: The author provided a complimentary copy of If You Were Me and Lived in South Korea in exchange for my honest review.

[Gigi Frost · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic immersion into a completely different world. From the author who took us on a whirlwind adventure to Mexico, comes an entirely new experience: If You Were Me And Lived In... South Korea... by Carole P. Roman.

The book is filled with a rich and diverse introduction to a people who have "lived there for over two thousand years". It is a lesser known place that is deeply routed in tradition and formality. The little boy and girl will take the reader into Seoul, the capital city of South Korea. From there, visitors are given a peek into the wonders of Min Sok Chon (the Korean Folk Village) and taken to a restaurant to eat bulgogi (Korean barbeque) with kimchee (spicy fermented cabbage).

Roman fills the reader with a sense of culture by showing them crucial differences in currency: "...won, which is like a dollar bill..." and language: "When you call your mommy, you would say Omma. When you address your father, his name would be Appa."

It is important for every child to gain exposure to various cultures. This book provides a creative learning aid that is developed specially for children Pre-K to 8-years old, but has proven insightful for people of all ages. If You Were Me And Lived In... South Korea... educates the mind and dispels certain biases that stem from ignorance. It teaches children that there is an entire world out there, unknown to a vast degree, but, thanks to Roman, a bit easier to understand.

Roman has created an enticing tale that provides a delightful learning tool presented under the charming guise of a simple story. She has also provided a Pronunciation page at the end of the book.

This book will enlighten the mind and cultivate the imagination.

Read the entire review here:
Bookend Chronicles

[Dylena Menard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Educational: 4/5

The education was good. Even though some of the names were foreign Carol had an index in the back of the book that helps you pronounce those foreign words correctly which I found very helpful for story time. There were city names, children's names and food to pronounce that none of us were familiar with but trying to pronounce something new was fun for us all. We sorta made a game for it.

Pictures: 4/5

The pictures were not astounding but the kids did enjoy looking at them and were pointing at things that interested them. I don't care for the cover at all. I mean a white cover for children? It's a good thing I have the perminent markers hidden. But other then that the pictures were cute and the kids did enjoyed them.

Story Line: 5/5

Even though the book was short and a little flimsy you did learn a lot. Each book had great details that taught the kids about some of the culture of the country. The book taught us what you would eat if you were there, how you would address you parents, what famous sites their are and a few other educational factors. Plus a childs attention span is short so it makes sense to keep it simple.

Binding: 3/5

I like how the book isn't heavy but it's flimsy. It'll take just a simple pull and a page could rip out. My nephew is strong for his age but he's learning to respect books and the couch. I know we all have a few books with tears and such but these books are so thin they won't last forever.

[K.L. Bernard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Are your young readers ready for an adventure? Take them on a journey to another country without leaving your home. Learning about other cultures is interesting and provides a better understanding of how other people live and thrive. If you are in South Korea you could have a name like Minjoon if you were a boy and Jiwoo if you were a girl. Money is called won, moms and dads are Omma and Appa. If your young readers are fans of barbeque, in Korea it is called bulgogi. Young readers can follow along as two young children take them on a tour of their country and culture.

“You might live in the capital city, Seoul. It is the largest city in South Korea and was built on the banks of the Han River. People have lived there for over two thousands years.”

Young readers will learn so much about the culture, holidays, foods and even clothing. Simple colorful illustrations share the lifestyle of this wonderful country. Simple sentences make it easy for young readers to follow along and pick up the words as they learn about East Asian civilization.

[LeighAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

These books teach your children what it would be like if they lived in another country. We've read about Mexico and France and now we're learning about South Korea. They will learn what continent they would live on, what the capital city is, and what their name might be. They also learn about currency, what you would call your parents, places you would visit, and more.

My kiddos and I are really enjoying this series. It's so much fun to learn about and imagine life in other countries and cultures. My daughter thinks South Korean names are funny because they are so different from the names we are used to hearing. I think these books are a great tool to introduce your children to other cultures. This one would be great to go along with anything they may be learning about South Korea. We are hoping there will be more books in this series so we can learn about other cultures!

[Rob Slaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Factual, straightforward and vividly illustrated

As usual i received this book free in exchange for a review. Also as usual I tell it like it is.

Unsurprisingly with a series of this size (I've got eight of them on my desk) they follow a pretty specific formula:

* Map page, show the country and name the capital
* Geographical overview, origin of capital's name
* Common names for boys/girls
* Words for money
* Words for mom/dad
* Common tourist attractions
* Common foods
* Most popular sport
* Common toys
* Annual festivals and Events
* Facts about school
* Pronunciation guide

The books are factual, straightforward and vividly illustrated and I could see a child reading a few of them but not all of them. I also don't see a lot of potential for multiple readings but they'd learn quite a few things even on the first trip around.

[Linda B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series! If You Were Me And Lived In South Korea... is another in a series by Carole P. Roman introducing young readers to cultures around the world. The book teaches about location, common names of boys and girls, favorite toys, foods, hobbies, holidays, and so much more.

The book is very colorful with very charming illustrations. One page has text and the facing page has the full-page illustration. The series is both educational and fun, and I hope very much to see more of these books in the future. Although for young readers, my two-year old granddaughter was very excited when she spotted the book on my end table and immediately began going through it. I would definitely recommend it for ages 2 and up.

[Momma Frugal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I personally love books like this!


I think it's important that our children learn about all of the various cultures that make up our wonderful world!


This book was written so that children can easily comprehend what the author is trying to say.


This would be a great book teachers, libraries, or a child's own book collection!


My oldest really looked forward to reading this book. We talked about the book after she read it and she told me everything she had learned about the South Korean culture and thought some of their traditions were pretty cool.


The author did a fantastic job and we look forward to reading more of her books!

[My Book Addiction and More MBA · Rating 5 out of 5]

IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN....SOUTH KOREA....An Introduction to Learning About Other Cultures by Carole P. Roman is another educational Children's Book. #2 in the "If You Were me and Lived In....."series. A great book filled with vivid illustrations,facts,cultures of South Korea and will help not only children but adults as well to understand the many different cultures of the world. A must read! I absolutely love this series. Keep them coming, Ms. Roman!!
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: NONE(CHILDREN'S)
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, Review courtesy of My Book Addiction and More

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carole P. Roman pens "If You Were Me and Lived In...South Korea..." in a cute story line that teaches your child, and you, about the South Korean culture. A true learning experience for children and adults alike. I enjoyed reading about this new culture and even learned something from the book. Highly recommended for all readers.

This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.

[Kristi Kerr · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a sweet little book, giving a snapshot of life as a child in South Korea. It would be a wonderful supplement to any geography or cultural studies program that a family or school is currently using. Short, to hold a child's attention, and with simple, colorful illustrations, we have really enjoyed this entire series.

[Sandra Stiles · Rating 5 out of 5]

You will what is special about Min Sok Chon the Korean Folk Village and what Kimchee is. You will also learn about the Lunar New Year in this book in the series. I recommended this book to my son to share with his children. The reason is because he was stationed in South Korea. This is a way for him to share a little of what he learned over there.

[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I grouped my review for all of these in one. Such great books :)

These books are so fantastic for kids. I really wish my kids were still little, but I read them to my 10 yr old and he really enjoyed them as well. Each book tells you about where you can find each place. It tells about what kind of food they eat, what sports they like. It is fun to see the similarities in so many different cultures. AND the differences. What a great idea to write these books. Each book tells about an important day to each place, and what they would use for money. It's very insightful, for a children's book.

The illustrations are wonderful in the books. They are a quick and easy way to share with your children the difference and beauty of each culture in our world. Such a beautiful display of culture.

I enjoyed each book. They each had fun facts, and were interesting to read. If you have kids with friends from other countries this would be a fabulous way to introduce them to their culture. For me, I just wanted my son to see all the amazing people, and cultures that there are in our fabulous world. Each one is beautiful, and wonderful. I love this world we live in, and all the different people and cultures that add to that beauty.

Such a great idea!

Thanks to Carole P. Roman for your insight on each of these wonderful parts of our world.

Source: I was given these books by the author in return for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way for this review. These are my own PERSONAL thoughts on the books.

[werejumpinbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely, always love Carole’s writing! My daughter always feels involved when Carole’s new book hits the mailbox. The information that are within the series are great. I really enjoyed the pronunciation guide, it was very informative. I have never left the South, so I have learned a lot through the books as well.
If You Were Me and You Lived… series shows exactly the location of each place. My daughter says it is her “vacation” books, haha! (Got to love the mind of a 5 year old). You learn the diversity within each culture: language, food, currency, landmarks, activities, holidays, clothing, etc.
The series of If You Were Me and You Lived.. are well written and the illustrations are playful and colorful. All these books are very educational: an interesting fact or two about the country or it’s capital city, fun, easy read, that not only would you enjoy as a parent, but your child will enjoy teaching others about other cultures!
We're Jumpin' Books

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice introduction to South Korea

Author Carole Roman has done an excellent job writing this introduction to the South Korean culture. It doesn't say anywhere I can find but I would think this would be good for 4-8 year old children.

Interesting text with different facts about South Korean life, from location to food to names to holidays, this little book held even this grown-up's attention all the way through.

I'm not sure if the illustrations are done by the author (the book doesn't list a separate illustrator) but the pictures are bright, colorful and attention grabbing.

There is a simple map of South Korea at the beginning of the book with the capitol of Seoul marked. The map is dark green and Seoul is marked in black so it is a little difficult to see.

At the end of the book is a Pronunciation Guide of the different South Korean words used in the book. That is very helpful.

I highly recommend this book.

NOTE: I received this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Mrs Mommy Booknerd http://mrsmommybooknerd.blogspot.com · Rating 4 out of 5]

SERIES REVIEW: What great all encompassing books for kids on countries all over the world. My son is constantly asking me about places all over the world, so these books are right up his alley. It presents great information in a way that is easy for kids to understand. It is like taking a tour of each of the counties within the pages of a book! 4 stars

[Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although the common metaphor is that the world is getting smaller, the reality is that the literal and figurative size really hasn’t changed. The real change is in the perceptions and consequences and the ease with which you can learn about conditions in distant countries. Enormous cultural differences remain with the potential for misunderstandings.
Instantaneous communications around the globe means that it is possible to know more about other countries and the speed and ease of the movement of electronic goods allows large amounts of capital to be transferred in seconds. This can quickly lead to a domino effect where a currency crisis in a small country can lead to a colossal global effect.
In this modern world, young people are made stronger, better and more effective workers and citizens when they know more about people in other countries. This increase in knowledge needs to start at a very young age; it literally should begin when the child is learning to read.
Carole Roman has developed a series of exceptional books describing some of the basic conditions in other countries and this one is about South Korea. Basic questions that a curious child would ask are answered, starting with where South Korea is and the name of the capital city, Seoul. Other topics are the most common Korean names, the name of the currency, what you call your parents, a favorite sport, the most common foods, the most prominent holiday and what the Korean name for school is.
Roman is a master at packing a great deal of key information into a short book with limited text. The general style is a short paragraph on one page with the corresponding illustration on the opposite one. Using large white text on green, the book is very easy on the eyes and the images are colorful. This book, along with the others in the “If You Were Me . . .” series should be in every elementary school library. They are written at the level of the second grader and can be the first step in a journey towards better understanding of people all around the world.

This book was made available for free for review purposes.