Book reviews: Atlas of the Netherlands

This review offers an interim assessment of the Atlas of the Netherlands, published in installments since 1963. More than eighty maps in eleven installments had appeared, while completion of the projected ninety-eight-map series was not expected before 1977. The reviewer discusses problems caused by the prolonged publication schedule, including financial pressures, revisions to the original program, and the need for supplementary maps reflecting recent changes. The atlas is praised for its bilingual Dutch-English presentation, readable scales, thematic organization, detailed soil maps, attention to future spatial development, and strong relevance to applied geography. Its accompanying texts substantially enhance the cartographic material. However, the omission of tourism and recreation is criticized as inconsistent with their spatial significance and the available Dutch scholarship. Overall, the atlas is judged an authoritative reference work on the Netherlands, pending final evaluation after completion.