The nations of Earth form a complex and diverse tapestry. From the rocky terrain of New Zealand's volcanic islands to Spain's historic architecture, and from the arid Kalahari Desert stretching across South Africa to the lively markets of Thailand, the world's countries feature a stunning variety of landscapes, wildlife, histories, and cultures. Essential Library of Countries explores a broad selection of these nations, examining what makes each a unique and important part of our world. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Essential Library is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.