The first chapter notes that many first-time visitors to New Jersey wonder why it's called the "Garden State." Then the author goes beyond the view from the turnpike and helps students to discover the farms, the cranberry bogs, the mountains and the rivers of the state having the highest density of population in the country. Students might be surprised to learn of New Jersey's many open areas as well as the abundant wildlife in the state. Black bears, wild turkey and red fox inhabit the area along with many varieties of birds. A listing of famous New Jersey residents ranges from Thomas Edison to Bruce Springsteen. The Jersey Shore is popular with visitors from the nearby northeastern states and with many Canadians as well. The Lenni Lenape are the first recognized natives and many places in New Jersey have names in their language. The book, part of the "It's My State" series offers students an overview of the history, geography and people of New Jersey. 2004, Benchmark Books/Marshall Cavendish, Ages 10 to 12.
—Carolyn Mott Ford
