Published in July 2002. The book has a lot of writing in it, but otherwise, there doesn't seem to be any noticeable deterioration. There are red circles drawn on the pages with pink sticky notes, and there are writings on 10 pages. My family used this book, and there may be other oversights, so please be aware of that. I think the atlas has some good points. Please refrain from purchasing if you are sensitive to writing in the book.