LeapFrog Explorer Globe

You can choose which information you want on precisely which area of the globe, from: name, capital, population, area, high point, money, music and continents/countries/states. The globe will also compare one place with another and tell you the distance in miles between them, if you touch two points in succession.

But the real potential of the globe lies in its game, "Eureka: a Game of Discovery". Touch the Eureka button, then choose from continents, countries, country capitals, states, state capitals or a free-for-all random round. Set the game going and you must find the points that the globe instructs you to find. You are running against the clock and the instructions and accompanying music become increasingly quicker as you progress. The multi-player option means healthy competition can be introduced and as you progress, you can choose between "tourist", "frequent flyer" and "globetrotter" levels, which become increasingly difficult.

The voice recording on the globe has an American accent but diction is clear and precise and in no way does this detract from the final product. This is a fast, furious and fun way to learn geography, (physical, human, political and economic as well as musical!) and though aimed at children, adults may be surprised at how healthy it is to do a little revision now and again. As well as being an effective learning aid, the globe can be a fun, family game. Simply superb and suitable for children aged 7 to 77! --Lucie Naylor