This book offers the reader a useful introduction to Norway, by means of very attractive, colorful photographs and explanatory text. Photos of beautiful natural vistas abound, with fiords, glaciers, mountains, lakes, and ocean views. Other photos show villages, cityscapes, farms, holiday festivals, fishermen, and vacationers. The photos explode with color. Following an introductory section that summarize aspects of Norwegian history and culture, the book is organized by region, with separate sections on Oslo, the South Coast, East, West, Central, and arctic Norway. An accompanying CD shows natural scenes (with a soundtrack from Peer Gynt), and short film clips of wildlife (whales, foxes, moose, and reindeer) and people, including the Royal family (Norway is a constitutional monarchy).

The current US President wonders why the US doesn't attract immigrants from Norway. This book helps answer that question. ( )