Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

National Geographic Beginners World Atlas Updated Edition

Rate this book
All the political maps and statistics have been updated in this award-winning book. The society's world-renowned cartographers, working with education consultants and geographers have created a state-of-the-art world atlas for children ages 5 to 8. Large, easy-to-read maps introduce youngsters to the world and each of its continents. Full-color photographs, carefully selected for their appeal to young children, supplement the maps and make people, places, and natural wonders come to life. Through simple but fact-filled text, children begin exploring the world by learning about maps and how to read them. Then they begin their continent-by-continent tour. Each continent begins with a welcome from a young native child, followed by an illustrated physical map with brief bulleted discussions of land regions, water, climate, plants, and animals. Similar treatment is given to the political map except the topics are countries, cities, people, languages, and products. Each spread features full-color images that are keyed to the maps. Backmatter includes a map keyed to a chart of geographic superlatives, a glossary, a pronunciation guide, and an index.

64 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 1999

12 people are currently reading
234 people want to read

About the author

National Geographic Kids

796 books264 followers
With more than 600 titles—including the popular Weird But True franchise and the New York Times Best Selling National Geographic Kids Almanac—National Geographic Kids Books is the recognized leader in nonfiction for kids. Published in 28 languages, NGK Books reaches approximately 85 million kids every year.

Offering K-12 educators resources that align to and support the Common Core State Standards, National Geographic has a long history of providing high-quality informational texts suitable for primary, upper elementary, and middle school English language arts, social studies, and science classrooms.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
103 (52%)
4 stars
58 (29%)
3 stars
25 (12%)
2 stars
7 (3%)
1 star
3 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Vera Godley.
1,969 reviews55 followers
September 6, 2019
In my opinion this is "hands down" the very best beginner's World atlas I have ever seen. The presentation of material is so exceptionally well organized and laid out that the flow of information should readily entrench itself into the mind of the young child that has the grand opportunity to have one of these.

It begins with the very basic concept of translating our spherical world into a flat visual map and then comprehending that though flat in appearance it truly represents our round Earth. The the reader learns what a map "is" and what this Atlas book will teach the reader. The separation of the physical world and its map from that of the political world and its map is concisely explained with illustrations that deftly and beautifully correlate with the concept.

Next the reader sees the book is separated into continents with the material showing the continent's map, factoids about the area, a bit of history, and current images particular to that continent.

Beautifully done and I highly recommend.

I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review of my own opinions, freely given.
15 reviews
April 30, 2012
National Geographic. (2011). National geographic kids beginner’s world atlas (3rd ed.). New York: Author.

Citation created by: Meagan Moremen
Call Number: REF 912
Description: An oversized book of a collection of physical and political maps of each continent as well as descriptions and photographs of the people and culture of that continent.
Content/scope: Organized by continent, each section opens with a physical and political map, followed by information on the culture and people. Real photographs and illustrations are both used when appropriate. Photographs that are used depict children of the same age as the intended reader. The atlas opens with a section that teaches students how to use a map and how to use this atlas. According to Book List, this atlas is appropriate for students in grades 2-4.
Accuracy/Authority: This atlas is in its 3rd edition. National Geographic produces several periodicals as well as multimedia presentations.
Arrangement/Presentation: Information is organized by continent. Print and images are large and pages are not cluttered for the younger reader.
Relation to Similar Works: National Geographic produces several periodicals as well as multimedia presentations.
Timeliness/Permanence: Published in 2011, this book is current. This atlas would need to be replaced periodically as political maps change.
Cost: $18.95
Rationale for Selection: This book was selected because it would allow students to explore other cultures that they may not be able to travel to. I also found it very important that this atlas depicted images of children the same age as the readers and not adults so that students can make better text-to-self connections.
Professional Review: Booklist, 11/1/2011, Vol. 108 Issue 5, p52-52
15 reviews1 follower
Want to read
June 23, 2012
Melissa Neeley

Title:
Beginner's world atlas. (2011). Washington, D.C.: National Geographic.

Type of Reference: Geographic Reference
Call #: J 912 Nat
Cost: $16.16
Description: The book provides children ages 5-8 with a wealth of information relating to each of the seven continents in a way that is both interesting and easy to comprehend.

Relevance and Relationship: Teachers can use this resource when instructing on a multitude of subjects including text features, map skills, landforms, animals throughout the world, and people of various cultures.

Purpose: The style of writing in this book is very simplistic making it appropriate for early readers. This reference book can act as the basis for other forms of information literacy practice where students will be guided from general to more specific information.

Validity: National Geographic is an established, authoritative resource. Reputable review sources such as Booklist and School Library Journal agree that this book is a quality addition to the primary library.

Format: This book is in print format. The material is presented in a consistent layout featured by brightly colored illustrations, appropriate for younger readers.

Arrangement and Presentation: This book begins by introducing map skills and giving students an overview of Earth, before looking closely at the geographic make-up of each continent. The end of the book provides readers with a glossary, an index, pronunciations, and greetings in native languages.

Diversity: This book is idea for younger students with a range of intellectual abilities. This book also address issues relating to multiculturalism.

Review Source:
Dean, K. (2011). National geographic beginner’s world atlas. School Library Journal, 57(12), 76.
Profile Image for Kailey (Luminous Libro).
3,536 reviews543 followers
September 16, 2019
This beginner's atlas is perfect for young readers with a curiosity about the world! It starts with how maps show different countries and landscapes, and how to read a map using the key, the compass, and the distance scale that shows miles and kilometers. Full of colorful illustrations and photos, this atlas grabs the reader's attention and brings the wonders of different nations to every page.

I like how the book is divided up by continent. It makes it easy to find what you are looking for, and to see how countries that border each other have a lot in common. It has maps that compare the landscapes, climates, plants and animals that are indigenous to the region, as well as the major cities, languages, and culture of each nation.

The text and illustrations are large and clear, making it easy to read and understand. The various types of climates are explained from tundra and rain forests to deserts and mountains. Featuring photos of major landmarks in each continent like bridges, buildings, national parks, palaces, and cultural centers, the book gives a wide view of the lifestyle of diverse people all over the globe, including their food, native plants and animals, clothing fashions, sports, and music.

This book is perfect for young readers, ages 7-10, who are just beginning to learn about the wide world and all the beauties it contains.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts and are not influenced by anyone.
Profile Image for K.L. Bernard.
Author 1 book22 followers
November 4, 2019
The National Geographic Beginner’s World Atlas helps new readers navigate earth’s physical world. Large maps, images and amazing photos are perfect for kids who are just starting to ask questions about the world they live in.

Short but informative bursts of information get to the point without overwhelming young learners. Readers will learn the purpose of a map and how to read it with the help of a compass, scale and map key. Earth’s surfaces are extreme from one part of the world to another and young readers will learn about icesheets, wetlands, deserts, mountains and more. Animals, plants and various cultures are shared from around the world. Kids can see how many of these countries use language and how they live amongst each other.

Parents and teachers will be able to teach young learners about maps and there purpose. Colorful imagery is perfect for showing how an atlas works and shares information about our world. The back pages have plenty of resources and a glossary.
Profile Image for Morgan Dyke.
74 reviews
November 26, 2022
Genre: nonfiction
Grade level: 1-3
This book was kind of boring, but I think it’s good for kids to read. It’s something kids could read to gain a little more knowledge on the world. I didn’t love this book, but it has simple information that can be good to learn.
Profile Image for Melody Harmon.
216 reviews10 followers
June 19, 2017
This is a great book to introduce children to the world around them. Filled with pictures and maps.
Profile Image for Cameron.
24 reviews
July 1, 2025
Good book if you know absolutely nothing about geography
15 reviews
Read
April 21, 2016
Title of Item in APA Citation: National Geographic Kids Beginner's World Atlas. (2011). Washington, D.C. : National Geographic.

Citation By: Lauren Rataj

Reference Type: Geographical Reference

Call Number: Ref 912

Brief Description: This resource contains information on the world’s land, people and animals for young readers.

Content/Scope: This resource is targeted for students’ ages 5-8. It provides up-to-date facts about information related to the land, plants, animals, languages, culture and physical/political world. It includes data, images, maps and a easy to read layout design.

Accuracy/Authority/Bias: This resource is published by National Geographic. This company is known in the animal science and educational world. They create high-quality information and resources for all ages of learners.

Arrangement/Presentation: This resource is great for younger elementary students. It has an easy to read layout that include text features such as a glossary, pronunciation guide and index to guide student understanding.

Relation to other works: Although there are many Atlas choices out there for students, I chose this one based on the reliability of the publisher and the recommended reading level. I feel that the collection has atlas that meet the needs of older elementary students, but not for the younger students or students who are low achieving.

Accessibility/Diversity: This resource helps to meet the needs of many learners. Because of the text features and lower reading level, all students are able to use it to make meaning of their world. The glossary and index also aid in teaching information inquiry skills of locating information.

Cost: $18.95

Professional Review: Booklist. (2011, July). National Geographics Kids Beginner’s World Atlas. Retrieved April 19, 2016, from
http://booklistonline.com/National-Ge...
15 reviews
Read
November 16, 2016
Beginner's World Atlas. (2011). National Geographic for Kids.

Citation by: Kristin White

Type of Reference: Geographical Reference

Call Number: Ref 912 Nati 2011

Content/Scope: This geographical reference is perfect for students ages 5-8, which is most children from Kindergarten to 2nd grade. The Beginner World's Atlas includes up-to-date facts, a glossary, pronunciation guide, and comprehensive index. This item also includes a guide for how to use an atlas for young readers. The images and colors are vivid and inviting, but the content really carries the atlas all the way through.

Accuracy/Authority/Bias: National Geographic for Kids is a trusted publisher of print and electronic/online materials for both parents and teachers. Students love interacting with Nat. Geo. for Kids, and their information is always accurate and reliable.

Arrangement/Presentation: The front of the atlas includes information on how to read a map as well as how to understand the difference between political and physical maps. The atlas is then divided by continents, although the United States and Canada have their own chapters. After the maps and photos introducing each country/continent, there is more information on the pages that follow about people.

Relation to other works: This children's atlas is in competition with others very similar to it, especially since it not only gives the reader information but also guides the reader on how to use the resource most effectively. Librarians and teachers will find this section very helpful to their students.

Accessibility/Diversity: Maps and photos provide accessibility for readers of all abilities levels and interests. The wide range of countries and ethnic groups discussed in this work will capture the curiosity of diverse learners.

Cost: $27.90

Professional Review: Dean, K. S. (2011). NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC BEGINNER'S WORLD ATLAS. School Library Journal, 57(12), 76.
15 reviews
Read
November 22, 2015
National Geographic Kids beginner’s world atlas. (2011). Independence, KY: CENGAGE Learning.

Citation by: Kelly Bowles

Type of Reference: Geographical Reference

Call Number: Ref 912

Content/Scope: This atlas is designed for grades 2-4. Panoramic photographs with easy-to-decipher maps. This atlas would provide a great base of understanding for elementary students who either aren't exactly sure what they are interested in, or who need a broad understanding of an area of the world.

Accuracy/Authority/Bias: National Geographic is a worldwide company known for producing top-notch materials on the world. The portrayal of people from each area of the world may be somewhat biased, but summarizing an entire population in a few photographs is an impossible task; to that end, National Geographic did a wonderful job in this area.

Arrangement/Presentation: Arrangement is geographical by continent. There are 64 oversized pages encompassing every continent and country in the world. alphabetical. Each continent is laid out on a double-page spread with the physical map, photos, and text about the land first, and then the political map with text and photos of people from that area.

Relation to other works: There are many children's dictionaries available; this dictionary meets requirements for libraries that need a comprehensive reference at an elementary level.

Accessibility/Diversity: The panoramic photographs, maps, and text in an oversized volume is easily accessible to most learners. The text is written for 2-4 grade students and therefore is easy to understand.

Cost: $27.90

Professional Review: Enos, R. (2011). National Geographic Kids Beginner’s World Atlas. Booklist. Retrieved from http://www.booklistonline.com.libsrv....
Profile Image for Amber Thompson.
15 reviews
April 29, 2012
National Geographic beginner's world atlas. (2005). Washington, D.C: National Geographic Society.

Citation created by- Amber Thompson

Call Number- 912

Description- 64 pages with color illustrations and maps

Content/ Scope- Maps, photographs, illustrations, and text present information about the continents of the world in an easier to read format for young children.

Accuracy/Authority- National Geographic's world-renowned cartographers joined forces with educational consultants and geographers to create this state-of-the-art world atlas for the youngest, most curious explorers. Stunning full-color photographs reveal the varied landscapes and populations of the planet, and galvanize readers to get out there and see it all for themselves.

Arrangement/Presentation- Large physical and political maps and full-color photos introduce children to the people, places, and natural wonders of the world.

Relation to Similar Works- There are other children’s atlas’ available, but National Geographic has amazing pictures and information that makes it a top choice.

Timeliness/Permanence- Timeliness/Permanence- New versions of atlas’ come out, but a version from 2005 will continue to be in use for several years before needing updated in a personal or library collection. The old versions will be lacking the most up-to-date information; however, still prove to be a very reliable and easy source for students.

Cost- $8.55 (Paperback)

Rationale for Selection- This is a great addition to the library I reviewed because their reference section was not well stocked. The atlas they had was very dated and not as appealing to children.
The addition of digital extras also makes it a top choice for the technological world we are living in.
15 reviews
Read
November 23, 2014
National Geographic Society. (2011). National Geographic Kids beginner's world atlas (3rd ed.). Washington, DC: Author.

Citation by: Brandie McKinney

Type of Reference: Geographical Reference

Call Number: Ref 912

Content/Scope: An atlas targeted for students in grades 2-4. This reference book takes children on a journey around the world. It introduces each continent with explanations, maps, and pictures.

Accuracy/Authority/Bias: The National Geographic Society has been creating and publishing children's material for a number of years in a variety of formats. It is a scientific society that is well respected among education professionals. This is the 3rd edition of their world atlas for beginners.

Arrangement/Presentation: This book is arranged by continent. Each continent has a two page spread that includes a map, pictures, and explanations.

Relations to other works: While there are a variety of available atlas materials, this book is targeted for elementary students. It would meet the needs of an elementary library needing a young student atlas about our world.

Accessibility/Diversity: This material covers a number of different cultures around the world. It will appeal to all students no matter their ethnic heritage. It also offers an atlas at a lower reading level, for students in any grade level to use if needed.

Cost: $27.90

Professional Review: Enos, R. (2011). National Geographic kids beginner's world atlas [Review of the book National Geographic kids beginner's world atlas (3rd ed.), by National Geographic]. Booklist Online. Retrieved from http://www.booklistonline.com/Nationa...

15 reviews1 follower
Read
December 2, 2012
Beginner's world atlas. (2011). Washington, D.C.: National Geographic.

Type of Reference: Geographical Reference
Call Number: REF 912
Description: This atlas is designed for students who are ages 5-8. It contains the most up to date information for children’s reference.
Relevance and Relationship: This atlas contains maps, facts, and photos of various places around the world. This enables students to learn about places they may never see.
Purpose: This reference is easy for young students to use to find out information about places around the world. It gives them geographical references, maps, photos, and information about places around the world.
Validity: This atlas is published by National Geographic, which is a leading source in educational material and geographical reference.
Format: This is 2011 print edition. It contains 84 pages of maps, charts, and other geographic information.
Arrangement and Presentation: The book is arranged by continents. It has a comprehensive index for quickly finding information. It also contains new icons that will help students quickly find information about plants, animals, etc. At the beginning it contains information on how to use the atlas and information about maps.
Diversity: This is designed for younger readers with not as much information on a page. Good reference for those who may struggle with the longer atlas.
Professional Review: Dean, K. (2011). National geographic beginner’s world atlas. School Library Journal, 57(12), 76.
Profile Image for Alissa Trammel.
15 reviews
Read
April 24, 2016
National Geographic. (2011). National geographic beginners world atlas (3rd edition). Washington, DC: National Geographic Children's Books.

Citation: Alissa Trammel
Type of Reference: Geographical Reference
Call Number: Ref 912

Content/Scope: This book contains maps and geographical information about people, animals, land, languages, and many other features pertaining to life on earth. Its up-to-date information and colorful real-life pictures draw the reader in to this easy layout book.

Accuracy/Authority/Bias: This book is published by National Geographic, which is reputable company known for publishing many science related books. Some of the countries discussed have very few pictures which could lead to some bias about the culture, but the information in the text aids in debunking this bias.

Arrangement/Presentation: This book contains several maps, real-life pictures, a glossary, a pronunciation guide, and an index to aid the reader with understanding the information.

Accessibility/Diversity: This book is targeted toward younger children; however, the easy layout and text features make it an interesting book for all readers.

Relation: This will be the second geographical reference book in the library, but the only one that contains information about aspects of life with each map.

Cost: $18.95

Professional Review:
Dean, K. (2011). National geographic beginner’s world atlas. School Library Journal, 57(12), 76.
53 reviews
April 23, 2016
National Geographic Society (U.S.). (2016). National Geographic kids beginner's world atlas. Washington, D.C. : National Geographic.

Citation by: Stephanie Ross

Type of Reference: Atlas

Call Number: Ref 912

Content/Scope: This is a children's atlas recommended for grades kindergarten through 3. Included in this resources are: maps, panoramic photographs, textual information, and key points. This atlas is specifically formatted for young children and will help them learn how to use an atlas for reference purposes.

Accuracy/Authority/Bias: National Geographic is know world-wide for their nonfiction and reference materials. Many school libraries have materials published by this company.

Arrangement/Presentation: An introduction helps young readers understand maps and gives an overview of the book. Each continent is represented in a two page spread with maps, photos, and text.

Relation to other works: There are other world atlas available for purchase. This resource is a good addition to a school library reference collection due to its appeal for kindergarten through 3rd grade students.

Accessibility/Diversity: The engaging use of photos, illustrations, and maps appeal to beginner readers and fill a gap in the collection. There is no sexist language in the book.

Cost: $27.90

Review: Enos, R. (2011). National geographic kids beginner's world atlas. Booklist, (2011, November 1).
17 reviews
Read
November 20, 2016
National Geographic Kids Beginner’s World Atlas.  (2011). Washington, DC: National Geographic Kids.

Type of Reference: Atlas

Call Number: REF 912 NAT

Content/Scope: A beginner atlas for grades 2-4 presents information about the seven continents in 64 oversized pages. The maps for each continent is presented with detail for the young learner to follow. Even though it is oversized, the patrons will still enjoy this resource.

Accuracy/Authority/Bias: National Geographic Kids is a subdivision of the well-known National Geographic. There interest includes all things with geography interaction from countries and nations to the animal, people, and weather. They represent many topics for individuals of all ages.

Arrangement/Presentation: Each continent has a detailed 2page layout. It contains maps, photos, and text. It also contains photographs of people from the area. The beginning part explains what is a map and the difference of physical and political.

Relation to other works: This atlas is a great introduction to the world for early learners.

Accessibility/Diversity: The oversized resource makes it appealing to young children. The panoramic photos grab the attention of the visual learner. Information beyond their own community is presented in this fascinating reference.

Cost: $18.95

Professional Review: Enos, R. (2011). National Geographic Kids Beginner’s World Atlas. (3rd ed.).  (2011). Washington, DC: National Geographic Kids. Booklist.
15 reviews3 followers
Read
April 22, 2012
National Geographic Society. (2005). National geographic beginner’s world atlas. Washington D.C.: National Geographic Society.

Citation created by: Sherry Bouldin
Call Number: 912
Description: Maps are updated and are large/easy to read. Text is simple and filled with facts, supporting by amazing pictures.
Content/scope: Age range specified is 5-8 years.
Accuracy/Authority: National Geographic Society is highly respected for geography related topic.
Arrangement/Presentation: Both physical and political maps are presented on a continent by continent basis. Each continent is introduced by a child native to that area.
Relation to Similar Works: There is an atlas for every age level student.
Timeliness/Permanence: This book was published in 2005 – would prefer a newer edition.
Cost: $25.11
Rationale for Selection: This reference would serve as a supplement to the social studies curriculum. Often times, our youngest students are left out of instruction if it’s not reading or math. This resource would give our youngest students an amazing trip around the world.
Professional Review: School Library Journal, Dec 2011, Vol. 57 Issue 12, p.76-76
26 reviews1 follower
November 8, 2010
Published: 2005

Summary: This atlas is perfect for children through third grade with its basic layout and subheadings and easy to understand vocabulary. Aesthetically, it is well-illustrated and photographed. The front of the book has an easy-to-understand explanation of how to use a map.

Lesson ideas: This book is a must in every primary room. It's a great reference tool when reading books that talk about far away places. It helps build background, as well, before reading stories with different land regions and cultural backgrounds.

Themes: location, culture, population, continents, maps, land regions, climate, plants, animals, languages, resources
Profile Image for Zoe.
52 reviews2 followers
January 7, 2015
This is an excellent starter atlas. I use this almost daily with my 3 and five year old to show them where in the world a place is that comes up either in reading another book, watching a video or in conversation. The large format is easy on the eyes and easy to access for young ones. I also believe it will awhile before we "outgrow" this as an oft-used reference.
Profile Image for Betsy Brown.
174 reviews2 followers
September 6, 2015
Along with a subscription to Little Passports, we sent Nate a globe and this atlas. He loves learning new things and we know he'll be using this book for the next few years as he goes on his own journeys.
Profile Image for Elines Flores.
77 reviews7 followers
April 8, 2015
What an AWESOME beginner atlas for young readers! The features are organized similarly to that of a “big kid” atlas. The pages and topics were well explained and easy to navigate throughout the book. I felt as if I was taking an exciting trip around the world.
150 reviews
April 9, 2015
This is an atlas for beginners and elementary aged children. It explains the different parts of an atlas and makes the maps easy for young children to look at. I would use an atlas like this in my classroom.
Profile Image for Marissa Pezzullo.
134 reviews
April 13, 2015
This would be a great resource all around for children to use. There is not just one thing that this could be used for. There was an abundance of information about different countries all around the world.
Profile Image for Maureen.
204 reviews4 followers
March 13, 2008
Good pictures, nice range of content. Words are kinda inappropriate for beginning readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.