An inspired idea, this book documents 30 families around the world with all their possessions arrayed around them. Each six- or eight-page photo-essay includes biographical notes, economic statistics and commentary. The cumulative impact of the photographs, biographical and social detail is fascinating -- and an excellent lesson in social geography. It includes a particularly good chapter on a Bhutanese family. With 370 color photographs.  (GEN02, $25.00)

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