From School Library Journal
Grade 7 UpBoth of these books have introductory chapters on history followed by individual sections on government, religion, economy, culture, cities, and daily life. Present problems and potential future solutions are discussed in the concluding chapters. Otfinoski spends less time describing the transition period than Michael Kort does in Russia (Facts On File, 1998), a book in the same series; instead he includes a chapter on cities that reads like an upbeat travel guide. This may confuse readers because its optimism seems to clash with information elsewhere about economic difficulties. There are also a few serious internal contradictions and errors. In Ukraine, for example, readers are first told that after the breakup of the Soviet Union, The loss of Russia as a trading partner was a deep blow to the Ukrainian economy, whereas later it is correctly stated that Russia is still Ukraines number one trade partner. Its a shame because the book does have sparks of good writing. Each volume has somewhat lackluster black-and-white illustrations and photos, a useful chronology from prehistoric times through August 1998, and a short list of suggested readings.Elizabeth Talbot, University of Illinois, Champaign Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Kirkus Reviews
This latest entry in the Nations in Transition series recounts the history and struggles of Bulgaria and the hardships connected with its Soviet relationship. Otfinoski (Boris Yeltsin and the Rebirth of Russia, 1995, etc.) reveals the vast proble ms experienced by Bulgaria, so far unable to make the transition to a democratic system of government and a free-market economy; instead, the country has experienced ``economic disaster and near political chaos.'' Approximately the size of the state of Te nnessee, Bulgaria has been in crisis recently, but the coverage reaches back, presenting the government, religion, economy, culture, beautiful architecture, and great leaders, and offers a sense of a rich national identity. The author also makes excellent use of unfamiliar aspects of Bulgarian life to draw readers in: the roses grown there that produce an oil (attar) that is highly prized by perfume makers; the fact that this nation of ``yogurt-eaters has the greatest population of people over the age of 100 in all Europe''; and that the best surgeons earn about $60 a month. The road to democracy and prosperity is difficult for Bulgaria and readers will clearly understand that it has not given up its struggles. (b&w photos, maps, index, not seen, notes, c hronology, further reading) (Nonfiction. 12-15) -- Copyright ©1998, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.

Card catalog description
Examines the people, religion, daily life, politics, culture, history, and geography of Bulgaria, emphasizing its transition from a communist to a free nation.

ANNOTATION

Examines the people, religion, daily life, politics, culture, history, and geography of Bulgaria, emphasizing its transition from a communist to a free nation.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Examines the people, religion, daily life, politics, culture, history, and geography of Bulgaria, emphasizing its transition from a communist to a free nation.

FROM THE CRITICS

Children's Literature - Melissa A. Caudill

A fascinating review of a relatively unknown Eastern European country is described in this easily accessible, reference book for young adults. Eleven chapters discuss the past and present people of Bulgaria. Their struggles to be independent, are contrasted with their thankful acceptance of Russia's communist regime. Explanations lie in the country's history which is examined in detail from its prehistory until the present. A complex web of politics, war and economic woes has haunted and shaped these peoples push to become a part of modern Europe. The text highlights famous Bulgarians and cultural and historic icons. Photos allow a glimpse into what life is really like in Bulgaria. Especially interesting are the chapters about how people make a living, what their cultures are like, and how Bulgarians live their daily lives. Part of "The Nations In Transition" series.

School Library Journal

Gr 7 UpBoth of these books have introductory chapters on history followed by individual sections on government, religion, economy, culture, cities, and daily life. Present problems and potential future solutions are discussed in the concluding chapters. Otfinoski spends less time describing the transition period than Michael Kort does in Russia (Facts On File, 1998), a book in the same series; instead he includes a chapter on cities that reads like an upbeat travel guide. This may confuse readers because its optimism seems to clash with information elsewhere about economic difficulties. There are also a few serious internal contradictions and errors. In Ukraine, for example, readers are first told that after the breakup of the Soviet Union, The loss of Russia as a trading partner was a deep blow to the Ukrainian economy, whereas later it is correctly stated that Russia is still Ukraines number one trade partner. Its a shame because the book does have sparks of good writing. Each volume has somewhat lackluster black-and-white illustrations and photos, a useful chronology from prehistoric times through August 1998, and a short list of suggested readings.Elizabeth Talbot, University of Illinois, Champaign Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.

Kirkus Reviews

This latest entry in the Nations in Transition series recounts the history and struggles of Bulgaria and the hardships connected with its Soviet relationship.