by Mio Debnam

Haven, $10.00, 65 pages

Young travelers will finally have a voice when planning the next family vacation. Author Mio Debnam and illustrator Tania Willis give tweens their own travel guide in KidsGo! Bali. Even if there isn’t a current family trip to Bali in the works, the book is a fantastic resource that will get kids interested in travel and different cultures. This 3X8 inch paperback will literally fit in any pocket or backpack. Use the latest telephone numbers and internet addresses for further research. Area maps put main locations and landmarks in context. Kids can jot down notes and memories in the back of the book and tape in souvenirs like ticket stubs and pictures.

Parents will appreciate the historical and geographical facts cleverly disguised as trivia. Bali is one of the 17,508 islands of Indonesia and there are even several active volcanoes! Especially helpful in the guidebook is a list of helpful foreign phrases and holidays. In the “Be a Culture Vulture” section, learn about ancient temples (pura) where people have worshipped for 1,000 years. Bali is known for its traditional arts and crafts, delicious food, and intricate dances. Be prepared to join in the fun when you visit this fantastic vacation destination.

Reviewed by Kathryn Franklin