Inka rulers led a huge empire with grand palaces. They had incredible riches. Artists made statues out of gold and silver. The Inka also made masterpieces out of grass. Their grass bridges crossed deep canyons. These engineering marvels let soldiers and messengers travel around the empire. Created in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, this Smithsonian Informational Text builds students' reading skills while engaging their curiosity about...

As the fifth-largest country in the world, Brazil's landscapes range from the famous Amazon rain forest to biodiverse mangroves, flat grasslands, and mountain ranges. Read all about the country's land and resources, how Indigenous peoples live, and the impact of colonization by Europeans, as well as daily life and culture today for people across Brazil. Free downloadable Teacher's Notes.

Journey to the remote and isolated place known as Easter Island. The island has a rich culture and history, as well as some giant statues called moai. Many people visit Easter Island to see and learn about the island's unexplained mysteries from the past. Plot a course for adventure as you learn to plot number patterns! This informational text builds math content knowledge and literacy skills, and uses real-world examples to help students explore...

The continent of South America is made up of twelve countries. Learn about the people, history, geography, and wildlife of this unique and diverse region. Includes a glossary, websites, and fast facts.

From the ancient civilizations that built the marvelous ruins of Machu Picchu to the inspirational Latinos on today's world stage, Latin America has a dynamic, complex, and rich history. This book explores the historical events, movements, and people who have shaped the region and its governments, including the ancient Incas, conquistadors, African slaves, and leaders of rebellion. This volume transports readers around the world with informative text,...

The ancient Inca civilization is known having a developed economy, but the people didn't use money. In fact, the society didn't have it. This is just one fact presented in this volume, which provides an in-depth look at the Inca economy. The title covers terrace farming, irrigation, livestock, and the role of mit'a labor in ancient Peru. Through the text's coverage of the government's distribution of goods and services, readers will understand why...

Since the beginning of exploration, people have searched for easier ways to navigate between waterways and oceans to bolster trade. The Panama Canal demonstrates how innovation, advanced engineering, hard work, and great personal cost resulted in one of modern history's most critical trade routes. This book includes information about the explorers and inventors behind the project, the goods and services traded, and the ways the canal is used today....

The history of the lands in Central and South America is split between the centuries before and after the arrival of Europeans. Prior to that time, vast civilizations lived and thrived in the rainforests, mountains, and deserts of these diverse lands. Since the arrival of Europeans, the nations have taken on a mixed nature that tries to bring the best and strongest of the old and blend it with aspects of the modern. Inside, meet the people who created...

The ancient wonder of Machu Picchu was a well-kept secret for hundreds of years. Hidden in clouds high in the Andes Mountains, the Incan royal palace still inspires awe centuries after it was built. But you don't have to visit Machu Picchu to be drawn in by its clever construction and mysterious history. Through full-color photographs and labeled diagrams, this book introduces young readers to this remarkable world heritage site. With 20 enlightening...

The Inca Empire is known for its gods, famous rulers, and high priests, but the daily lives of the Incan people were just as important to the society's growth and development. This book covers the fascinating facts about daily life in the Inca Empire. Readers will delight in learning about Inca villages, the role of men, women, and children, and the farming and laboring lifestyle they experienced. Written with accessible language and accompanied by...