Gr 5-8–A standout for its organizational format, which will help readers grasp the spiritual and worldly aspects of each religion. Marsico treats the religions and their followers respectfully and examines their historical and contemporary cultural influence. Themes and student inquiry are emphasized, with four chapters that describe each faith’s history; geographic origins and expansion (geography); structural organization, sects, and spiritual tenets (civics); and funding and financial support (economics). Sidebars ask “developing” and “concluding” questions and encourage readers to make inferences and draw conclusions. A “Celebrating Faith” chart lists holy days, rituals, and festivals. The photos and maps are of average quality. VERDICT Consider to help middle schoolers grasp the far-reaching influences of religion.