An uninspired book for the annual state report assigned by most schools. Although the book employs current statistic, the information is not substantially updated from earlier texts. Additions like the "State Conservation Plant" (the Penngift Crownvetch), and an official state song bring the book forward to the 1990s. Otherwise, Pennsylvania's rich history, from Colonial times through the Civil War, is still the central focus of the volume, minus any significant coverage of the original inhabitants, multiple Native American tribes who are quickly dismissed. A chart of "Workers and Industries" shows that the traditional Pennsylvania industries of farming and mining are on the wane, yet a significant amount of space is devoted to the agricultural center of the state. While communications giant Comcast is based in Philadelphia, the best technological development the authors could come up with was the development of UNIVAC in 1951. Famous Pennsylvanians include the usual suspects: native Bostonian, Benjamin Franklin and James Buchanan. Kobe Bryant and Tara Lipinski represent the "younger" generation, with Bill Cosby included for the entertainment industry. How could the writers overlook Philadelphia-born astronaut Guion S. Bluford, Jr., and entertainment hyphenate Will Smith? "Quick Facts" perpetuate historical legends like Betsy Ross' (not Eliza Grisson Ross) creation of the thirteen star flag. Census data is current to 2007 so statistics are dated. The words "many" and "most" precede broad generalizations about the population of the state. The legislative information seems to be very generalized rather than Pennsylvania specific, although the difference between Pennsylvania's commonwealth system of government is explored. Pictures of the state are inviting and colorful, but suggested projects are standard issue Pennsylvania Dutch tiles and applesauce cookies, hardly a Pennsylvania delicacy! While this book fulfills a need, it will hardly stimulate students' interest in the Keystone State. Part of the "It's My State" series. Reviewer: Lois Rubin Gross
