Monday, April 1, 2013

Nonfiction Monday




Nonfiction Monday is hosted today by Wendie'sWanderings.

For Nonfiction Monday --  "Barbarians!" written by Steven Kroll and illustrated by Robert Byrd.


Goths, Huns, Vikings, and Mongols were labeled "Barbarians" by their enemies, but what is known about them other than their warlike behavior?  Kroll delves into their culture and examines religious beliefs, everyday life, historic migrations and the men who led them in war and peace to create context for young readers interested in the history of these people.  In the process, he provides insight into how these four groups changed and were changed by the civilizations they encountered or conquered.

Byrd's illustrations are rich in detail -- dynamic battle scenes, the struggle of daily life, and impact of religion both pagan and Christian -- to name a few of the topics.  A colorful timeline and maps locate readers in time and space.  Sidebars highlight specific facts such as the development of the written Goth alphabet, ice skating using the bones of animals for skate blades, and jewelry.

1 comment:

Perogyo said...

How very interesting- there are such diverse cultures within the label of barbarian, I'd like to learn more!

The Gingerbread Cowboy Book Trailer