Political maps show state and national boundaries. They include major cities and places created by people. But how do you use political maps? And what map features help you answer geographical questions? Read on to become a map genius!

Rebecca E. Hirsch is an award- winning children's author with a PhD in plant biology. Her picture books include Plants Can't Sit Still and Night Creatures: Animals That Swoop, Crawl, and Creep while You Sleep. She lives with her husband and three children in State College, Pennsylvania. You can visit her online at rebeccahirsch.com.