Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this documentary series is an exceptional learning tool in world history, geography, linguistics, economy, culture, and cuisine. High-definition technology and exciting graphics complement amazing photography and thorough research, making each installment a highly enjoyable, educational experience. Real-life stories cross the cultural divide and provide a glance into the lives of both average and extraordinary citizens of diverse countries.
Families can talk about the various cultures portrayed in the series. How are people's lives different in other countries? How are they similar? In what ways have the influences of other cultures affected the United States? Families can also discuss traveling abroad. If you could visit any other country, which would it be? Why? How would you prepare for your trip?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Emily Ashby
DISCOVERY ATLAS is a beautifully crafted documentary series that transports viewers to distant lands and introduces them to the diverse cultures, rich heritages, and natural beauty of 20 of the world's amazing countries.
The extensive project paints multi-dimensional portraits of life around the world by featuring in-depth interviews with real-life people who exemplify the cultural, recreational, and socio-economic diversity within each country. As the cameras capture the subjects' day-to-day lives, a narrator (usually a celebrity like James Spader, Russell Crowe, or Isabella Rossellini) discusses the historical events that have led to the citizens' current situations.
For example, the installment that focuses on China introduces viewers to a billionaire entrepreneur, an aspiring Olympic gymnast, a kung fu master, and a rice-farming family. Through translators, they discuss their family lives, economics, and aspirations. Their diversity is testament to the challenges of the world's largest country, which struggles to maintain balance between its ancient history -- as explained throughout the show -- and its potential as a world leader in the near future.
Other focal points of the series include the people and lands of Italy, Brazil, Australia, and other ports of call around the globe.
Discovery Atlas combines stunning cinematography, expert narration, and striking graphics in a captivating, multimedia experience that's a great choice for family viewing. Parents and kids -- grade-schoolers and up -- will enjoy learning more about these fascinating countries together.
Fans may also enjoy Caught in the Moment or PBS' anthology series Nature; the younger set will have fun with Franny's Feet. And more fascinating world facts can be found at SocialStudiesforKids.com.
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Social BehaviorThe series offers an informative, educational tour of 20 countries, teaching viewers about the national history, geography, economy, and traditions from the perspective of real people. |
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Drug/Alcohol/TobaccoOccasionally subjects smoke or drink alcohol during interviews, or in the background. |
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