Book excerpt: With easy-to-read text and full-color photos, this book introduces readers to the work of a cartographer through several major geographical concepts, including latitude and longitude, projection, scale, and orientation. Readers will become familiar with reading a compass rose and a map legend, as well as learn how to understand a map's purpose by its title. The book also discusses the different elements used in reference maps and thematic maps, teaching readers that almost any type of information can be mapped. Colorful maps and diagrams highlight the text, visually demonstrating these concepts. Informative sidebars, bold glossary terms, and an index enhance the engaging text and graphics.