This book introduces readers to a wide range of human accomplishments, focusing mostly on art and architecture (the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, skyscrapers) but also incorporating technological advancements (the Hubble telescope, the Internet). The many photographs and renderings are appropriately monumental but tend to crowd the pages. Each of the three chapters is introduced with a map. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. All rights reserved.

This wide-reaching entry in the Kingfisher Knowledge series aims to introduce young readers to the human-engineered wonders of the world, from the Great Pyramid of Egypt to the Taj Mahal to the Internet and the World Wide Web. Slotted into three chronological chapters, the spreads feature brief descriptions of each site, illustrated with present-day color photos and eye-catching, computer-generated images, many of which imagine the sites in ancient times. The book tries to encompass too much, particularly in its third section, which focuses on the achievements of modern civilization. But the quick survey will spark students' interest and perhaps encourage future, deeper research. A final section further explains the meaning of heritage sites, and chapter summaries introduce relevant vocabulary and encourage readers to think about the treasures in their own cities and countries. --Gillian Engberg Copyright 2007 Booklist

Gr 4-7-As Steele journeys around the world, he begins with the original seven wonders and then moves on to the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, the Canals of Venice, and "Modern Wonders," among them skyscrapers and bridges, offering enticing paragraphs and "Go further" suggestions of books and Web sites at the end of each section. His descriptions are clear, and important terms are well defined. Attractive full-color photos, drawings, and computer re-creations are included. A foreword from UNESCO adds gravitas and introduces the struggle to protect the world's cultural and natural wonders, a theme that is developed later in the book. An appealing introduction to the topic.-Tracy H. Chrenka, Forest Hills Public Schools, Grand Rapids, MI (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.