Popis knihy

This beautifully illustrated, colorful, hardback book opens with the Slovak anthem (Nad Tatrou) and closes with a Prayer for Slovakia; all points inbetween sing a beautiful paen to Slovakia. If you're looking for a Christmas gift for a Slovak relative, look no further. Published (separately) in both English and Slovak editions by Bolchazy-Carducci publishers, this picture/fact book provides a general overview of the country with its rich cultural traditions. Probably originally intended for juvenile and young adult readers, this book is a treasure trove for everyone, though, with its high-quality illustrations of all things Slovak. Places like Bratislava and Kosice...Slovak forefathers (including a nice mix of politicians, writers, musicians). There is a 2-page simplified map of places of interest in Slovakia that features places like castles, famous cathedrals and the Tatra mountains. Devin Castle gets 3-pages devoted to it (perhaps a bit excessive), followed by a brightly illustrated 2-page map of the High Tatras—our miniature Alps. Next comes a section of Slovak superlatives (or little-known facts) pointed out with bullets. Facts like the biggest fish in Slovakia (the sheat-fish), the smallest mammal (the lesser shrew)...There is a colorful tribute to Janosik and his band of outlaws and then much space is devoted to depictions of various Slovak artwork—leatherwork, embroidery, wooden products...old Easter and Christmas customs are covered in delightful detail and if you've been puzzled by the values of Slovak currency, perplex-no-more because its' thorough lesson on Slovak money should take care of that once and for all. A 3-page spread which recants Slovakia's historical journey to independence is a valuable, concise recap and a good refresher for everyone. The book fittingly closes with Milan Rufus' Prayer for Slovakia. — Virginia Parobek