We are so familiar with the map of the United States that our state borders seem as much a part of nature as mountains and rivers. But every edge of the familiar wooden jigsaw pieces of our childhood represents a revealing moment of history and of, well, humans drawing lines in the sand. This is the first book to tackle why our state lines are where they are. Packed with oddities and trivia, this entertaining guide also reveals the major fault lines...

"In early 2012, the Wall Street Journal published an editorial: The Heartland Tax Rebellion, which brought to national attention the movement in many Midwestern states to replace their state income tax. The opinion piece compared nine states with the highest personal income tax with nine states with no income tax. In each category (population, state product and employment) no-income tax states came out ahead, while high- and low-income tax states...

The states decide to get together and put on a show featuring their particular talents. Includes facts about the history and geography of the states.

"Welcome to Montana! Let Kinsley show you around the state where she lives. Learn about her state's flag, animal, and flower. Find out her favorite activities too!"--Provided by publisher.

"Welcome to Oregon! Let Lina show you around the state where she lives. Learn about her state's flag, animal, and flower. Find out her favorite activities too!"--Provided by publisher.

"Welcome to Virginia! Let Remi show you around the state where she lives. Learn about her state's flag, bird, and flower. Find out her favorite activities too!"--Provided by publisher.

"Welcome to Vermont! Let Charlotte show you around the state where she lives. Learn about her state's flag, animal, and flower. Find out her favorite activities too!"--Provided by publisher.

"Welcome to Louisiana! Let Zoey show you around the state where she lives. Learn about her state's flag, animal, and flower. Find out her favorite activities too!"--Provided by publisher.