Reviews: Atlas Nacional de la República de Panamá

This review evaluates the third edition of the National Atlas of Panama as a governmental planning tool and regional reference work. Drawing on data from more than twenty public agencies and major censuses conducted between 1980 and 1983, the atlas presents 304 maps, 211 graphs, and 51 explanatory texts across fifteen thematic sections. Its consistent scales, projections, page design, colour schemes, and integration of maps with statistical material generally demonstrate sound cartographic practice. Weaknesses include occasional printing and registration errors, awkward lettering, abstract symbols that impede interpretation, and poorly applied graph patterns. Nevertheless, the atlas assembles otherwise difficult-to-access information with exceptional breadth and clarity. The reviewer concludes that its data quality, thoroughness, and presentation surpass those of many comparable Latin American and developing-world atlases, making it highly valuable for government planning, library reference, teaching, and research on Panama and Latin America.