This 24-volume reference, appropriate for middle school readers and above, offers information on wide-ranging issues in countries around the world. Volumes 1 and 2 are devoted to the U.S.; Volumes 3 to 23 each cover a different region; and Volume 24 contains indexes, a glossary, and other useful material. Each volume contains country profiles that comprise encyclopedic entries varying in length from one page or less for a small island-state to about 50 pages for the U.S. They include a map, and side-text features that highlight a key figure, notable historical event, or an island territory. The text addresses the environment, society and economy. Next, regional profiles discuss the region as a whole and cover physical geography, habitats and their conservation, animal and plant life, agriculture, industry, economy, peoples and cultures, cities, government, and environmental issues. A special feature section illustrates and expands on a particular topic, narrowing the focus to the local level. Cross-referenced, and illustrated in color. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)