NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC KIDS UNITED STATES ATLAS The award-winning National Geographic Kids United States Atlas features lively maps, and graphics; updated essays and statistics; 8 thematic map spreads, on topics such as immigration, natural hazards, the water crisis, and the "greening" of America; same-size physical and political maps for each region for easy comparison; vibrant photo essays on each region and state; more than 350 full-color illustrations; 80-plus pages of National Geographic maps; 50-plus info graphics; updated state fact boxes; geo-whiz facts; state flags, birds, and flowers; comprehensive place-name index with coordinates for easy reference; and glossary of geographic terms.      Just like its companion volume National Geographic Kids World Atlas, the USA atlas is INTERACTIVE. A specially designed Web site will allow kids to link directly to hundreds of National Geographic maps, photographs, and articles plus videos, music, games, and more that will expand their knowledge and perspective about this country and its states and regions. All maps are custom-designed for middle-grade students by the Society's world-famous cartographers and each is shown in the context of surrounding areas. Throughout, locator maps and color coding make it easy for kids to keep track of where they are and to quickly navigate from region to region and state to state.     The combination of large, detailed, yet easy-to-read maps--both physical and political; stunning, full-color photo essays; information-packed thematic spreads; and the interactive component sets this atlas apart from every other U.S. atlas currently available for the 8­-12 age market and makes it an invaluable resource.