The concept of this book is wonderful: there are more than 6,900,000,000 people on the planet, but to comprehend that number of people is difficult for any of us - enter the global village.
We are taken through the facts and figures of a village consisting of just 100 people (each representing 69,000,000 people in the world). Of these 100 - 61 are from Asia, 14 from Africa, 11 from Europe, 8 from South America, 5 from North America, and just 1 from the Oceania countries.
The people of our village speak a number of languages, their age varies, religions are many, and food tastes are staggering. Some have access to water safe for drinking, some of the children attend school but others must work, some have money and others don't.
41 of our 100 villagers are exposed to diseases such as malaria.
This book is filled with facts and figures, and some shocking truths, but it's far from being doom and gloom. It also looks at the positives and the ways we can help the other 'villagers', and does so with lovely and interesting language suited to the target age group.
The concept really works, making the world feel more accessible and real to kids. It helps highlight some issues, differences and creates an opening for many discussions around those topics.
Primary school children will love it.
Title: If the World Were a Village
Author: David J. Smith
Illustrator: Shelagh Armstrong
Publisher: Allen and Unwin, $16.99 RRP
Publication Date: December 2010
Format: Softcover
ISBN: 9781742376608
For ages: 7 - 12
Type: Picture book
