National Geographic Our Fifty States

“The richness of this land… has shaped the character of our people and our history. It is our duty and our pleasure to know it well-”
from the Foreword by Former President Jimmy Carter.

The richness of America, in all its grandeur and diversity, is captured here in the pages of Our Fifty States. An unparalleled amount of accessible geographic information is packed into this stunning, easy-to-use volume. A comprehensive sense of a vibrant country plus countless fascinating details and neat “Did you know?” facts make the book a unique reference and browsing resource for curious young Americans.

There’s information here that will appeal to trivia lovers. Which is the only state with a rounded boundary? Which is home to the oldest tree in the country? Which state boasts active volcanoes? Quick, name the capitals and nicknames for all 50 states!

There’s information here that makes report writing easy. Choose a state. Kansas. List its top state industries, the population, and four key events in the state’s history. Easy. It’s all right at your fingertips.

There’s description here that will any young reader marvel at the land. Learn about natural wonders from spouting geysers to magical caverns. Visit Alaska’s endless sweeping tundra and Florida’s string of jewel-like island keys. Quotes form famous writers capture the character of each region in loving and lofty words, as with Willa Cather’s infectious awe of the Midwest: “There was nothing but land… the material out of which countries are made.”

The American bald eagle soars through “spacious skies,” past “amber waves of grain,” and over “purple mountain majesties” on this book’s cover in a reminder that from “sea to shining sea”, this land truly is “America the Beautiful”. There is much to know about this land we love. National Geographic and geographers Mark Bockenhauer and Stephen Cunha open the door to learning about our inspiring, our united, Our Fifty States.