The Renaissance Thinkers with History Projects for Kids, by Diane C. Taylor is part of the
Renaissance For Kids Series from Nomad Press. In this volume, Taylor structures
her work around chapter biographies of Filippo Brunelleschi, Niccolo
Machiavelli, Thomas More, Nicolaus Copernicus, and Francis Bacon as a means of
introducing readers to some of the most influential thinkers of that time.
An introduction examines the Renaissance in terms
of economic change, religious conflict, technological advances, and the effects
of humanism. Each chapter utilizes primary sources and a timeline to trace
important life stages from early years through the influences that shaped each
thinker, to their greatest areas of impact and on to their legacy. And finally,
readers are confronted with interesting topics to consider and/or debate. How
have the innovations utilized by Brunelleschi in designing the Florence
Cathedral influenced architecture? Do “The ends justify the means” as
Machiavelli contended? How has Thomas More’s concept of Utopia been interpreted
by writers in the present day? Why did it take so long for the discovery, by
astronomer Copernicus, that the earth revolved around the sun to be accepted as
fact[J1] ? In what way does the
scientific method described by Francis Bacon shape modern research?
Readers are challenged to ask questions and use
critical thinking skills in response to a series of hands-on projects that are
offered at the end of each chapter. Photographs highlight the subjects and
provide historical context. Multiple text boxes offer additional facts, quotes,
and insights to broaden the scope of each concept. Calls to action are
strategically placed throughout: Wonder
Why? poses additional questions for consideration. Connect
contains QR codes for audio and video files. Words of Wonder directs readers to a multi-page glossary at the end
of the book. Resources provides a
list of books, videos, and museums for further exploration.
The book is fascinating,
informative, and a pleasure to read. The text and illustrations are richly
detailed. The book is identified as being for ages 10-15. The
conversational tone and age-appropriate vocabulary is appealing. However, conversations
about the philosophical, political, and cultural atmospheres, particularly
those related to Machiavelli and More, will benefit from adult guidance. The
scientific material is clearer and provides easier discussion points.
Recommended for home and school
libraries.
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