"Money flows around the world as countries buy and sell from each other. It looks different, has different names, and different values. So how do we really know what money is? Can we trust it? Discusses foreign currency exchange, international trade, world wealth and world poverty in an easy to understand, accessible manner. Chapters include information on the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, The G7 and various charitable organizations throughout the world. Includes a table of contents, glossary, index, websites and books for further information, and discussion questions. "
Grades 4-7. World money is more than dollars, pesos, or yen. Instead, this entry in the How Money Works series takes a broader look at the global economy. It begins with bartering systems, the development of money, and early international trade routes. Accompanied by cartoon illustrations, color photographs, and charts, the accessible text continues with topics related to international banking and markets, such as currency exchange, imports and exports, trade balance, bill of exchange, and gold reserves. The authors add a human element by discussing ways to eliminate world poverty and Third-World debt and increase fair trade and aid during global disasters. A thought-provoking conclusion encourages students to consider ways to de-emphasize money and wealth and create more equity and well-being around the world. Additional discussion questions provide great debate starters.
These volumes make a good base for financial literacy, covering personal finances and moving to ever-widening economic systems. Small, easily digested blocks of text and numerous silly cartoons dot each page. More than an assembly of facts, the series also espouses fair trade options, charitable contributions, conflict resolution, and more. Thoughtful discussion questions are included. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. [Review covers these How Money Works titles: World Money, Your Money, Country Money, and Family Money.]
Gr 4-6-Talking about money can be difficult, even for adults, but it is essential if one is to become financially independent and economically savvy. Using simple language in short, labeled paragraphs, this series contextualizes the way money works in communities, households, and the world at large, demonstrating that monetary issues don't exist in a vacuum. The authors delineate what countries, states, and cities spend money on, such as social programs, education, housing, and healthcare, and who is responsible for making broad financial decisions. The series also explains factors that affect families, such as budgets, credit, loans, insurance, taxes, rent, and much more, in an accessible way. Colorful, simply drawn graphics enhance the text, and helpful graphs and charts are employed to add perspective and illustrate more abstract concepts. VERDICT A comprehensive start to getting students to think about money and become responsible spenders and savers. © Copyright 2015. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.