Book Reviews: Atlas of Finland

Summary

The Atlas of Finland (Suomen Kartasto), 5th edition, published by the National Board of Survey jointly with the Geographical Society of Finland since 1977, exemplifies the country's pioneering role in national atlas production, with its first edition predating independence by nearly two decades. Initially serving to showcase the Grand Principality's encyclopedic information and foster national identity, the atlas has evolved into a comprehensive, standardized, and highly readable reference covering all aspects of regional geography, including physical, biological, and social environments, with explanatory texts in Finnish, Swedish, and English. Designed as a continuous compilation of statistical-geographical knowledge, it functions as an educational tool for schools and the public, aiming to enhance understanding of environmental challenges and opportunities. The review praises its methodological rigor, interlinked content, and affordability, deeming it an outstanding contribution to applied geography.