Where along the Rhine does the Nibelung Treasure lie? What river helps mark the prime meridian? Why do people make pilgrimages to the Indian city of Benares? Why is the Mekong called the "Nine Dragon" river in Vietnam? How does the Mississippi divide and unite the United States? These and hundreds of other facts are explored in this wonderfully illustrated atlas of the world's great rivers. Each spread in this book, which includes a gorgeous gatefold page, offers a colorful map packed with drawings, figures, and facts. Cities that border the rivers are highlighted, as are distinct flora and fauna, significant natural and human- made features, and fascinating historical details. A "biography" of each river describes where it flows, and its importance to the communities it passes through. Special attention is given to the ecological health of the rivers-those that are thriving and those in danger of losing their valuable habitats. Along the way, young readers will come to understand the enormous impact that rivers have on our lives, while learning valuable information in a way that will spark their curiosity and imagination.

About the Author
VOLKER MEHNERT is a journalist, travel writer, and author of a children's biography of the explorer Alexander von Humboldt. He lives in Bad Soden, Germany. MARTIN HAAKE has created illustrated works for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Penguin Books, and Volkswagen. His illustrations have earned him several awards, including the German Art Directors Club's silver medal, of which he is a two-time recipient. He lives in Berlin, Germany.


Book Information
ISBN 9783791374703
Author Volker Mehnert
Format Hardback
Page Count 40
Imprint Prestel
Publisher Prestel
Weight(grams) 760g
Dimensions(mm) 378mm * 279mm * 10mm