The Best World Atlases in 2025

Maps today are everywhere – on our phones, computers, and car dashboards. Yet there’s something special about having a well-crafted world atlas at your fingertips. As an environmentalist and geographer who’s spent years working with both digital and printed maps, I can tell you that a good atlas offers perspectives and details you simply won’t find in any app.

In this guide, I’ll help you navigate the world of atlases to find the perfect one for your needs. I’ve reviewed dozens of the latest editions available on Amazon, comparing their features, accuracy, and usability. Let’s explore what makes each one unique.

General-Reference Atlases

These atlases provide comprehensive geographical information, making them essential for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of our world.

National Geographic Atlas of the World

The National Geographic Atlas of the World is a masterpiece of cartography, offering detailed thematic maps, satellite imagery, and cultural insights. The 11th edition, published in 2019, includes updated geopolitical maps reflecting recent border changes, new environmental data on climate change, and a special section on the impact of urbanization. With over 500 maps, this atlas covers everything from natural resources to economic patterns, making it perfect for students, travelers, and geography enthusiasts. The inclusion of celestial maps and charts of the solar system adds an extra layer of depth for those interested in astronomy.

Review: 4.8/5

Publisher: National Geographic
Publication date: October 1, 2019
Edition: 11th
List Price: $128.99
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National Geographic Family Reference Atlas of the World

Designed for families, this atlas combines stunning visuals with accessible information. The 5th edition, published in 2020, includes over 1,400 images, maps, and charts, making it perfect for young learners and adults alike. It covers a wide range of topics, from physical geography to cultural activities, and features updated statistics and new sections on global cultures and ecosystems. The atlas also includes satellite data and National Geographic’s signature color images, providing a visually rich experience. Its authoritative yet approachable style makes it a great resource for family learning and exploration.

Review: 4.7/5

Publication date: October 6, 2020
Edition: 5th
List Price: $43.52
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Collins World Atlas: Complete Edition

A beautiful and comprehensive world atlas, perfect for adventurers, students, and families. The Complete Edition, published in 2025, presents a complete view of the world through innovative maps, stunning images, and detailed content. This fully updated atlas includes highly detailed regional and worldwide mapping, covering a wide range of topical issues such as natural disasters, population, climate, and the environment. Key country statistics allow for comparisons of development and a deeper understanding of today’s world. Thousands of facts and statistics, including world and continental ranking tables, make this atlas a valuable resource. Updates for the 2025 edition include changes to capital cities (e.g., Kazakhstan) and new flags for Honduras and Kyrgyzstan.

Review: 4.7/5

Publisher: Collins Maps
Publication date: April 15, 2025
Edition: Complete Edition
List Price: $39.52
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National Geographic Concise Atlas of the World

A compact yet comprehensive atlas, the National Geographic Concise Atlas of the World is perfect for quick reference. The 5th edition, published in 2022, includes updated geopolitical maps and new sections on global trade and environmental issues. Its portable size makes it ideal for travelers and students, while its clear, easy-to-read maps and concise information make it a practical choice for everyday use. The atlas also features key statistics, flags, and time zone maps, providing a wealth of information in a compact format.

Review: 4.5/5

Publisher: National Geographic
Publication date: September 6, 2022
Edition: 5th
List Price: $23.55
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Atlas of the World by Oxford University Press

Known for its annual updates, the Oxford Atlas of the World is a trusted resource for accurate and detailed maps. The 30th edition, published in 2023, features new thematic sections on urbanization, global health, and biodiversity. It also includes updated city maps, a revised gazetteer of nations, and a comprehensive overview of global statistics. The atlas’s crisp, clear cartography and meticulously chosen scales make it ideal for researchers, educators, and anyone who values precision. The addition of satellite images and thematic maps on topics like climate change and global trade further enhances its value.

Review: 4.5/5

Publisher: Oxford University Press
Publication date: September 18, 2023
List Price: $95
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The Times Comprehensive Atlas of the World

A classic reference work with over 200,000 place names and detailed thematic maps, The Times Comprehensive Atlas of the World is a must-have for anyone who values precision and detail. The 16th edition, published in 2023, features updated satellite imagery, new city plans, and a revised section on global migration patterns. The atlas also includes physical maps of all continents, detailed illustrations of major cities, and a comprehensive geographical reference section with flags, statistics, and facts for every nation. Its high-quality materials and protective slipcase make it a durable and long-lasting resource.

Review: 4.0/5

Publisher: Times Books
Publication date: December 12, 2023
Edition: 16th
List Price: $203.66
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Atlases of World History

Explore the past with these richly detailed historical atlases.

History of the World Map by Map

This visually stunning atlas traces human history from ancient civilizations to modern times, featuring over 140 maps and timelines. The 2nd edition, published in 2023, includes new sections on the impact of technology and globalization. The atlas begins with the journey of early humans out of Africa and covers key historical events such as the Greek and Persian Wars, the Mongol Conquests, the colonization of North America, and the Industrial Revolution. Each map is accompanied by pictures, info boxes, and timelines, providing a clear understanding of the forces that have shaped our world.

Review: 4.8/5

Publisher: DK
Publication date: September 5, 2023
Edition: 2nd
List Price: $28.00
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World War II Map by Map

In this stunning history atlas, purpose-created maps tell the story of World War II, from the rise of the Axis powers to the dropping of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Each map is rich with detail and graphics, helping you chart the progress of WWII’s critical events on land, sea, and air, such as the Dunkirk retreat, the attack on Pearl Harbor, the D-Day landings, and the Battle of Stalingrad. The atlas also includes archival maps from Allied and Axis nations, offering unique insights into historical events. Timelines and historical overviews provide context, while captivating images highlight themes like the Blitzkrieg, the Holocaust, kamikaze combat, and code-breaking. Written by a team of historians led by Richard Overy, this atlas explores how the most violent conflict in history shaped the modern world.

Review: 4.8/5

Publisher: DK
Publication date: September 3, 2019
List Price: $23.77
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The Second World Wars: How the First Global Conflict Was Fought and Won

A fresh perspective on WWII, combining historical analysis with detailed maps. This edition, published in 2017, includes new insights into lesser-known battles and strategies. Written by historian Victor Davis Hanson, the book explores how WWII unfolded across multiple landscapes, from the deserts of North Africa to the jungles of Southeast Asia. The atlas includes maps of key battles, such as the Battle of the Bulge and the attack on Pearl Harbor, as well as thematic maps on topics like industrial production and troop movements. The book’s narrative style and detailed maps make it a compelling read for history buffs.

Review: 4.8/5

Publisher: Smithsonian Institution
Publication date: October 17, 2017
List Price: $22.49
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World War I: The Definitive Visual History, New Edition (DK Definitive Visual Histories)

A visually rich exploration of WWI, featuring maps, photographs, and firsthand accounts. This edition, published in 2024, includes new sections on the war’s global impact. The atlas covers key events such as the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the Battle of the Somme, and the signing of the Treaty of Versailles. Each map is accompanied by detailed descriptions and photographs, providing a comprehensive overview of the war’s progress. The inclusion of eyewitness accounts and archival images adds a personal touch, making the history come alive.

Review: 4.7/5

Publisher: DK
Publication date: May 21, 2024
List Price: $21.39
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Atlas of World War 2: History’s Greatest Conflict Disclosed Through Rare Wartime Maps and New Cartography

A detailed exploration of WWII through maps, archival images, and expert analysis. The 3rd edition, published in 2018, includes newly declassified maps and updated battlefield illustrations. The atlas covers key events such as the invasion of Poland, the Battle of Stalingrad, the D-Day landings, and the dropping of the atomic bomb. Each map is rich with detail and graphics, providing a comprehensive overview of the war’s progress on land, sea, and air. The inclusion of timelines and historical overviews adds context to the maps, making it a valuable resource for history enthusiasts.

Review: 4.7/5

Publisher: National Geographic
Publication date: October 30, 2018
Edition: 3rd
List Price: $28.49
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National Geographic Ultimate Visual History of the World

Follow the fascinating threads of human history in this monumental volume, amply illustrated with maps, archival imagery, and revealing photographs. From the dawn of humankind to the modern age, every era and civilization, war and innovation is revealed in this comprehensive work. The 2021 edition covers everything from the Babylonian Empire to the Persian Gulf War, the Xia and Shang Dynasties of Bronze Age China to the new space race, and Egyptian hieroglyphics to the digital age. With stunning visuals, informative maps, and thought-provoking text, this book is an instant classic. The inclusion of timelines, key events, and profiles of significant figures makes it a must-have for history enthusiasts.

Review: 4.6/5

Publisher: National Geographic
Publication date: October 19, 2021
Edition: 1st
List Price: $31.99
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World Atlases About Culture and Art

Dive into the world of culture and art with these unique atlases.

Great Maps: The World’s Masterpieces Explored and Explained

The world’s most beautiful maps are explored and described. From Ptolemy’s world map to Hereford’s Mappa Mundi, through Mercator’s map of the world to the Moon and Google Earth’s newest maps, Great Maps presents a captivating overview of cartography throughout the ages.

Unveiling the stories behind 55 historical maps by analyzing graphic close-ups, the atlas also profiles key cartographers and explorers to examine why each map was commissioned, who it was for, and how they influenced navigation, propaganda, power, art, and politics.

Review: 4.8/5

Publisher: Firefly Books
Publication date: October 23, 2014
List Price: $22.57
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All Over the Map: A Cartographic Odyssey

Created for map lovers by map lovers, this atlas explores the engaging stories behind maps across history and illustrates how the art of cartography flourishes now.

Betsy Mason and Greg Miller, creators of the National Geographic cartography blog “All Over the Map,” in this visually remarkable book based on interviews with leading cartographers and historians, investigate the engaging stories behind unusual maps from various cultures and civilizations and times.

Review: 4.7/5

Publisher: National Geographic
Publication date: October 30, 2018
List Price: $28.98
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Food and Drink Atlases

World Atlas of Wine

The World Atlas of Wine is the most outstanding and impressive wine-writing work. Revealing the changing landscape of the wine scene, the Atlas shows developments in climate, technique, fashion, and new laws made over the last years. New North American and Australian maps feature the importance of cool-climate areas as climate change takes impact. For instance, dynamic regions such as coastal Croatia, South Africa’s Swartland, and Chinese Ningxia are included for the first time. The world’s growing appetite for wine is matched by a growing desire for knowledge, which this Atlas will fully satisfy.

The first edition of Atlas of Wine was published in 1971. The 8th edition of the world atlas of wine shows all the world wine market changes over the past years.

The latest version of the Atlas has grown to 416 pages, and 22 new maps have been added to the wealth of excellent maps in the book.

Review: 4.9/5

Publisher: Mitchell Beazley
Publication date: October 1, 2019
List Price: $35.99
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The World Atlas of Coffee

The World Atlas of Coffee presents the bean in full-color photos and short text. It shows the origins of coffee – where it is grown, the people who raise it, processing, grades, the consumer, and the modern culture of coffee.

Plants of the genus Coffea are grown in more than seventy countries but primarily in Central America, Southeast Asia, and Africa. For some nations, coffee is the number one export and vital to the economy.

Systematized by continent and then by nation or area, The World Atlas of Coffee exhibits a mix of color spreads filled with information. They include:

• The history of coffee globally and regionally
• Comprehensive maps of growing regions
• Diagrams showing variations in growing areas within a nation
• Inset boxes
• The politics of coffee and the open trade, organic and shade-grown phenomena
• Vivid color photos were taken in the field.
• Americans consume 400 million cups of coffee per day, equal to 146 billion cups of coffee per year, making the U.S. the leading consumer of coffee in the world. The World Atlas of Coffee is an excellent choice for these coffee fans.

Review: 4.8/5

Publisher: Firefly Books
Publication date: October 10, 2018
List Price: $31.42
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The World Atlas of Whisky: New Edition

The World Atlas of Whisky is the 2nd edition, wholly rewritten and updated. Whiskey expert Dave Broom examines over 200 distilleries and analyzes over 400 expressions. Thorough descriptions of the Scottish distilleries can be found in this Atlas, while Ireland, the United States, Canada, Japan, and the rest of the planet are given complete coverage. There are tasting notes on rare malts from Aberfeldy to Tormore, Yoichi.

Six mainly designed ‘Flavour Camp Charts’ group whiskeys by style and allow readers to distinguish new whiskeys from around the planet to try.

This significantly updated and expanded edition highlights new material on burgeoning areas, including full coverage of many recently opened new distilleries in the United States, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

With over two hundred vivid color photos and 21 detailed color maps positioning distilleries and whiskey-related sites, this is a stylish presentation of whiskey’s culture, adventure, craftsmanship, and versatility.

Review: 4.8/5

Publisher: Mitchell Beazley
Publication date: October 14, 2014
List Price: $26.49
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National Geographic Atlas of Beer: A Globe-Trotting Journey Through the World of Beer

National Geographic Atlas of Beer is packed with fantastic photos, rich illustrations, bizarre drinking destinations, little-known histories, and insider knowledge from brewers and bar owners worldwide. Including beer suggestions from Garrett Oliver, the famous brewmaster of Brooklyn Brewery, and written by “beer geographers” Nancy Hoalst-Pullen and Mark Patterson, this essential guide highlights more than one hundred illuminating maps and two hundred stunning color photos.

You’ll find beer history, trends, and tasting across every continent of our planet (and even how to order a beer in 14 languages!). Travel advice includes the most reputable breweries, beer festivals, bars, and pubs in every location. Creative, compelling, and valuable, this fundamental guide will assist you in discovering the best beer anywhere you are.

Review: 4.7/5

Publisher: National Geographic
Publication date: September 19, 2017
List Price: $40
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The World Atlas of Beer

Take a beer lover’s journey around the planet in this final, edited, and extended guide. Follow famous experts Stephen Beaumont and Tim Webb on the ultimate beer tour, covering more than 35 nations from Austria to New Zealand. This sumptuously illustrated, complete guide kicks off in Europe, trips through the Americas, and ends in Asia. Along the way, you’ll learn about everything from the wheat beers of Bavaria, Belgium s Trappist ales, and Finnish sahti to British bitters, barrel-aged Californian beers, Vietnamese bia hoi, and more, with full tasting notes for over 500 must-try beers. Webb and Beaumont also suggest a captivating history of beer and an in-depth glance at the science and art of beermaking. This newly updated and extended edition of The World Atlas of Beer highlights 10 additional countries, including Poland, Switzerland, Spain, Ireland, Iceland, and China, as well as up-to-the-moment beer industry information and trends. With this ultimate guide, you can explore the best beers on the planet.

Review: 4.7/5

Publisher: Sterling Epicure
Publication date: October 18, 2016
List Price: $15.92
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Travel Atlases

National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks

The inaugural atlas of its kind, this exquisite volume showcases America’s awe-inspiring park system spanning from coast to coast, lavishly adorned with an engaging and educational compilation of maps, illustrations, and photographs.

From the pristine white-sand shores of Dry Tortugas to the rugged, icy cliffs of Denali, this remarkable atlas seamlessly integrates authoritative park maps with a myriad of illustrations to chronicle the narratives of America’s sixty-one cherished national parks. Jonathan Waterman, an esteemed ex-ranger and writer, presents readers with a vivid tour of the nation’s scenic reserves, highlighting their remarkable features: iconic landmarks, thriving ecosystems, diverse wildlife, fascinating histories, and more. With vibrant imagery and cutting-edge graphics depicting elements of wildlife, climate, archaeology, culture, recreation, and beyond, this atlas offers an intimate glimpse into what makes these lands so remarkable.

Review: 4.9/5

Publisher: National Geographic
Publication date: November 19, 2019
List Price: $40.99
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Atlas Obscura: An Explorer’s Guide to the World’s

It’s time to stray from the conventional path. Stirring both curiosity and wanderlust, Atlas Obscura celebrates over 700 of the world’s most peculiar and unconventional destinations.

In this second edition of Atlas Obscura, readers are led to even more extraordinary sites, featuring over one hundred new locations.

The atlas boasts numerous photographs and city guides showcasing the grandest cities across the globe.

Crafted by Joshua Foer, Dylan Thuras, and Ella Morton, Obscura uncovers the bizarre, the extraordinary, the overlooked, the concealed, and the enigmatic. Each page of this global atlas expands our understanding of the world’s unique and extraordinary facets. Moreover, with its captivating narratives, hundreds of captivating photographs, exceptional diagrams, and maps covering every corner of the globe, it is an atlas that invites exploration from any vantage point.

Review: 4.8/5

Publication date: October 15, 2019
Edition: Second
List Price: $23.20
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Disney Maps: A Magical Atlas of the Movies We Know and Love

Movies transport us to fantastical realms, from the enchanted forests of Snow White to the contemporary universe of Toy Story, courtesy of Disney and Pixar.

Each of the 24 exquisitely adorned maps vividly depicts the beloved films we cherish, accompanied by insightful details about the storylines and characters.

Embark on a journey through the diverse realms showcased in Disney and Pixar films with this beautifully illustrated atlas!

Review: 4.7/5

Publication date: August 11, 2020
List Price: $14.99
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Children’s Atlases

What’s Where On Earth?

This may be a children’s atlas, but adults can enjoy it. It has the whole maps of all the countries on the planet tidily spread out on the inside cover and title page. The United States and Australia have their states orderly printed, and on the whole, it is an exact map of the world. The content inside the atlas is desirable. The atlas contains magnificent three-dimensional illustrations and is full of helpful essential information, including the total population and the populations of a country’s major cities. It gives the total land area of every nation and the most extensive and smallest countries of the continents. Other engaging facts contain the largest lakes, rivers, waterfalls, bridges, and the climate – which parts of our planet are the wettest and the driest.

The atlas is well thought out and cleverly crafted.

Review: 4.8/5

Publisher: National Geographic
Publication date: July 30, 2018
List Price: $12.99
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National Geographic Kids Beginner’s World Atlas

Embark on a journey across the globe with the fifth edition of National Geographic Kids Beginner’s World Atlas, an essential resource for young adventurers eager to discover more about our remarkable planet.

Within this latest edition, National Geographic’s team of map experts, in collaboration with a geography educator, presents:

• Large, vibrant maps tailored specifically for readers aged 7 to 10
• Updated facts and figures detailing the world’s geography, inhabitants, and wildlife
• Striking, colorful photographs capturing the wonders of our diverse world
• Insights into map fundamentals and how to interpret map keys
• A helpful glossary, metric conversion guide, and comprehensive index
• The latest, most pertinent information about our world, presented in an engaging and age-appropriate manner

Review: 4.8/5

Publisher: National Geographic
Edition: 5th
Publication date: July 5, 2022
List Price: $14.69
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The Atlas Obscura Explorer’s Guide for the World’s Most Adventurous Kid

Journey into the extraordinary with this captivating New York Times bestseller, a thrilling exploration of 100 of the world’s most surprising, mysterious, and downright weird-but-true places. Perfect for inquisitive young minds with a passion for science, geography, and adventure, this book offers a tantalizing glimpse into a world brimming with wonders.

Embark on a spellbinding odyssey and discover the unexpected connections between far-flung locales! From the glittering crystal caves of Mexico to the sprawling expanse of the world’s largest cave in Vietnam, each destination is linked to the next by a web of fascinating attractions. Marvel at the towering 355-foot waterfall in Zambia before unraveling the enigma of Antarctica’s Blood Falls. Encounter ancient mummies in Japan and France, then delve into the breathtaking ice caves of Argentina and Austria.

With each turn of the page of the atlas, you’ll ascend towering mountains, soar over lush forests, and plunge into the depths of the ocean, all from the comfort of your own home. Let this book be your passport to a world of hidden marvels, brought to life through stunning illustrations and captivating narratives.

Review: 4.8/5

Publisher: Workman Publishing Company
Publication date: July 19, 2022
List Price: $19.95
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Atlas of Record-Breaking Adventures: A collection of the biggest, fastest, longest, toughest, tallest, and most deadly things from around the world

Discover the extraordinary with Atlas of Record-Breaking Adventures, the latest addition to the acclaimed Atlas of Adventures series, showcasing some of the world’s most breathtaking sights and remarkable events through stunning illustrations.

Embark on an exhilarating journey across the globe, from the highest peaks to the deepest depths, as you flip through the pages and uncover one record-breaker after another. This action-packed atlas takes you on a whirlwind tour of every continent, where you’ll marvel at both natural wonders and incredible human achievements.

From towering waterfalls to hidden underground cities, from colossal primates to peculiar flora, prepare to be awed by the unparalleled diversity of our planet. Whether you’re traversing the scorching deserts of Ethiopia, delving into the vast caves of Vietnam, or traversing the expansive railways of Russia, adventure awaits at every turn in this thrilling atlas.

Lucy Letherland’s vivid illustrations breathe life into each adventure, inviting you to explore every scene and discover quirky characters along the way. Expertly crafted by Emily Hawkins, the accompanying text provides fascinating insights and essential information to fuel your imagination and inspire your next journey—or simply transport you to far-off lands from the comfort of your home.

With over 30 captivating scenes to explore, adventurers aged 7 and up will delight in spotting hundreds of fascinating details and absorbing facts about our remarkable planet. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable expedition and meet some of the world’s most incredible record-breakers in this beautifully illustrated compendium of wonders.

Review: 4.8/5

Publisher: Wide Eyed Editions
Publication date: October 6, 2020
List Price: $34.08
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National Geographic Student Atlas: 6th Edition

The National Geographic Student World Atlas, 6th edition, is an essential resource for middle and high school students who aspire to be well-informed global citizens.

Expertly crafted in collaboration with a geography educator, this latest edition offers a comprehensive exploration of our ever-changing world. Packed with engaging content, including captivating photos, informative charts, and vibrant maps covering crucial topics, this atlas provides an invaluable learning experience.

Key features of this edition include:

Brand new thematic maps highlighting various aspects of each continent
Fresh and updated infographics to visually convey important information
Revised maps and statistics reflecting the latest developments and trends
With its wealth of educational resources and visually compelling presentation, the sixth edition of the Student World Atlas is the ultimate guide for young learners seeking to broaden their understanding of global geography and culture.

Review: 4.7/5

Publisher: National Geographic
Edition: 6th
Publication date: July 5, 2022
List Price: $10.59
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Atlas of Prejudice

Delve into a captivating collection of over a hundred stereotype maps curated by Yanko Tsvetkov, the creative mind behind the renowned Mapping Stereotypes project. With a touch of humor and a dash of wit, Tsvetkov’s atlas serves as a satirical compendium of humanity’s skewed perspectives, spanning from ancient civilizations to modern-day phenomena like Donald Trump and social media.

Combining satire with cartography, the Atlas of Prejudice offers a unique blend of entertainment and introspection. Through witty essays and clever illustrations, it sheds light on the absurdity of human biases and misconceptions, providing both amusement and food for thought. As a valuable tool in combating bigotry, it offers a wealth of insights and serves as a reminder of the importance of critical thinking.

Whether you seek a good laugh or a dose of intellectual stimulation, this atlas promises to deliver. It stands as a testament to the power of humor in challenging societal norms and fostering open-mindedness. So, dive in and explore the world of prejudice with a grin on your face and a newfound perspective in your mind.

Review: 4.6/5

Publisher: Alphadesigner
Publication date: Oct 9, 2021
List Price: $29.99
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Space

Space Atlas: Mapping the Universe and Beyond

The Space Atlas blends updated maps, stunning photographs, and exquisite illustrations to map the solar system, the universe, and beyond. This newly revised edition of National Geographic’s enduring space guide is a must-have for space enthusiasts, science aficionados, and star gazers, featuring a new introduction by American hero Buzz Aldrin.

This comprehensive tour of our cosmic neighborhood, including the Milky Way, other galaxies, and distant realms, combines detailed maps and captivating imagery from recent space missions with clear, authoritative scientific insights. Starting from the sun and extending into space, acclaimed science writer and physicist James Trefil sheds light on each planet, the most significant moons, notable asteroids, and other celestial bodies in our solar system. Delving further, he elucidates our knowledge of the Milky Way and other galaxies, along with explanations of fundamental astrophysical concepts like dark matter and gravitational waves.

In honor of the 50th anniversary of his moonwalk, astronaut and American hero Buzz Aldrin contributes a special new section on Earth’s moon and its pivotal role in past and future space exploration.

Review: 4.8/5

Publisher: National Geographic
Publication date: October 23, 2018
Edition: Second
List Price: $28.44
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National Geographic Stargazer’s Atlas: The Ultimate Guide to the Night Sky

Featuring breathtaking photographs, detailed maps, and intricate graphics, this comprehensive atlas is the perfect guide for anyone wishing to explore the wonders of the night sky, whether they are new to stargazing or experienced telescope enthusiasts.

National Geographic Stargazer’s Atlas seamlessly blends science, adventure, and narrative, inviting readers to navigate the night sky to discover constellations, planets, moons, eclipses, comets, meteor showers, auroras, and deep-sky treasures like nebulae and galaxies—many visible to the naked eye and all accessible with binoculars or a backyard telescope.

Starting with foundational space science and featuring a complete set of night sky maps for all four seasons in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, this captivating book directs readers toward the most rewarding celestial observations. A special chapter on astrotourism showcases ancient observatories, dark-sky preserves, and other global destinations for sky enthusiasts; while a final chapter delves into current and future space missions and their potential discoveries.

Enhanced with breathtaking imagery— including photographs from space missions and telescopes, scientifically accurate artist renderings, and explanatory diagrams— the book also features 170 maps and charts of planets, moons, and constellations, ranging from Earth’s moon to Saturn’s moons. Practical tips throughout the book help readers apply what they’ve learned, honing observational skills such as “star hopping” from easily recognizable stars to fainter deep-sky objects, and focusing on “deep sky treasures”—areas teeming with observable phenomena.

Accessible yet authoritative, captivating yet informative, National Geographic Stargazer’s Atlas will captivate anyone who delights in gazing up in awe at the night sky—and leave them eager to delve deeper into its mysteries.

Review: 4.7/5

Publisher: National Geographic
Publication date: October 25, 2022
Edition: First
List Price: $38.71
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Observer’s Sky Atlas: The 500 Best Deep-Sky Objects With Charts and Images

This impressive new edition of a beloved classic (previously available only in black and white) features star charts and images for all skygazers, whether they observe with the naked eye, binoculars, or telescopes. It is equally beneficial for beginners and seasoned astronomers.

A revered resource among amateur astronomers, this completely updated and revised edition includes new celestial maps in vibrant color, incorporating the latest data from the Gaia spacecraft, along with unique comparison images of the most prominent celestial objects. Sixty-one brand-new star charts are valid through 2060, accompanied by 532 images of stars, galaxies, and nebulae, with 415 of them in full color.

Highly precise position figures aid astronomers in navigating the charts and accurately locating objects for observation, providing a deeper understanding of the night sky.

With this guide, hobby astronomers can easily locate star clusters, gaseous nebulae, and galaxies across the night sky. Its user-friendly format ensures quick orientation, allowing intermediate astronomers to immerse themselves in the night sky for extended periods by pinpointing objects of interest with ease.

Review: 4.6/5

Publisher: Firefly Books
Publication date: March 10, 2023
Edition: First
List Price: $30.85
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