World Atlas.

WORLD ATLAS. Online reference database. Facts On File (132 West 31st St., 17th floor, New York, NY 10010; 800-322-8755; www.factsonfile.com), c2004. Internet-accessible computer (PC or Macintosh) running Navigator or Microsoft Internet Explorer 3.0 or higher. For pricing, e-mail [e-mail] or call 800-322-8755. JSA 

Based on Facts On File's Maps On File and Geography On File, this updated database includes over 1,200 full-color maps along with statistics and other information on over 200 countries, the US states and the Canadian provinces and territories, and the world's continents and major regions, with geographic and thematic maps. There are flags as well as images and detailed data on the geography, government, history, society, and culture of each country; for instance, the climate, the constitution, a timeline of its history, the ethnic composition of its people, and biographies of famous citizens. The home page clearly lays out all the options, including the ability to compare and to rank countries or US states in a variety of ways; for example, by water area, personal income, violent crime, or population under 18. The maps and other data can easily be printed out, and Web links to such sites as the US Census Bureau and the National Geographic Society help to provide further information. A valuable reference tool for any school or public library, and helpful for geography and history classrooms, too. Paula Rohrlick, KLIATT