The power of geography is driven home in this excellent book about South Korea. South Korea is a peninsula. Its landscape, proximity to powerful nations and the sea have all greatly influenced its development. This country is known both as the "Land of the Morning Calm" and the "Hermit Kingdom." Chapter One explains how South Korea came to be known by these two names in the Western world. The following chapters deal with the country's natural landscapes, historical geography, people and culture, government, economy, and regional identities. Chapter Eight, "The Future of South Korea," contains the following sections: "Facts at a Glance," "History at a Glance," a bibliography and a selection of books for further reading. Detailed maps, charts and striking photographs give readers a glimpse of what day-to-day life is like in South Korea. While North Korea tends to be an isolated, insular nation, South Korea in recent history has worked to expand its influence globally. South Korea boasts many economic and organizational successes; its infrastructure, political stability, economic growth and architecture have captured the attention and admiration of many world nations. This title, which provides a solid introduction to South Korea, is one in the publisher's "Modern World Nations" series. 2003, Chelsea House Publishers, Ages 12 up.