* 90 pages of stunning world thematic maps cover the vital natural and human topics of today. * Striking satellite images open each continent. * Oceans are mapped from coast to coast, revealing incredible illustrations of depth and seafloor topography. * Each continent receives special economic coverage assessing regional and global activity. * A place-name index includes 55,000 entries. * Extensive "World Facts" section comprises demographic and socioeconomic information, geographic comparisons, and a glossary.

This compact, easy-to-use atlas offers the convenience of smaller scale without sacrificing clarity or detail; instead, identically-scaled maps on a given continent enable readers to compare physical, political, and regional information simply and accurately. In addition, access to a companion Web site provides continuing and complementary information.

National Geographic's maps and atlases are critically acclaimed and world-renowned for their accuracy, originality, innovative and authoritative content, and clear, smart design. Now, for the first time, National Geographic offers its trusted map content in a new, compact format. Sized at 4 x 6 inches, with a pliable, resilient soft cover, the Compact Atlas of the World is designed to be thumbed through, easily referenced, and then conveniently stored in a pocket, backpack, or desk. All maps are newly researched, updated, and reflect the latest changes in the world. Other enhancements include new internal navigation elements and new, extensive world and continental thematic coverage of population, climate, land cover, fresh water, and natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanoes, and tsumanis. Superb overall readability, captivating design and layout, and navigational ease allow the reader to quickly retrieve information. This compact world atlas contains a wide array of traditional political and physical maps, as well as a fascinating series of thematic maps (e.g., population density and growth, climate, land cover, natural hazards, and water availability) at both continental and world scales. Design details such as rounded corners and prominent page numbers make it a use-friendly and novel product, which literally puts the world in the palm of your hand. Attractively priced and containing 100 maps and an accompanying place-name index with some 11,000 entries, this atlas represents an outstanding value and makes an excellent handy, affordable, personal reference and gift item.

Examines the Earth's geologic history, climate, vegetation, population, food, economies, and mineral resources, and offers physical, political, and subject maps of each continent.

"Your multimedia interactive guide to the world"--Cover.

Presents a reference guide that features state-of-the-art world maps, allowing readers to compare physical, political, and regional data, with specilized maps that cover such global themes as tectonics, biodiversity, energy sources, food, and population.

Designed in consultation with NASA and the NOAA, a detailed exploration of the Earth's oceans provides more than 150 maps, photos, and satellite images combined with information on its diverse life and phenomena, as well as related technological developments.