{photo by Rachel Neumann}
It’s a new trimester, and that means a new list of book reviews by our very own Emily Ferrarini. Emily is a 3rd year SLOCA parent with two children, Isaiah (UMS) and Quinn (LMS). She is also one of our bookstore associates and a previous children’s librarian with a passion for children’s literature.
This trimester Emily has chosen several picture books to tell us about. These reviews are just in time for book suggestions to enjoy over our three-week break, or perhaps as gift ideas for young readers (and listeners). We hope something here piques your child’s interest!
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King Midas and the Golden Touch, by Charlotte Craft
Our students may already be familiar with the Greek myth of King Midas, who is mentioned in their current literature book, but I think this tale deserves the additional attention. This is my favorite out of several illustrated Midas stories. The king’s little daughter, Princess Aurelia, acts as the voice of reason in this version. (Keen students of Latin will know that her name means “golden”.) King Midas learns a lesson that will resonate with parents and kids alike.
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Buddha, by Demi
This gorgeous picture biography, written and illustrated by the prolific Demi, is more substantial than its lovely, gold inked cover may suggest. No matter your religious proclivities, there is a lot to be learned from this story of Siddhartha, a young man with a desire for wisdom. It may be a bit hefty for primary students, although it could easily be broken down into a few sessions. For younger students, consider starting with the Buddhist parables in the back of the book.
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Fa Mulan, by Robert D. San Souci
I love this Chinese story of a courageous and smart young woman who clothed herself like a male warrior and fought to protect her country. “I am afraid,” she admits in the story, “but also excited.” Unlike the Disney version, this Mulan leaves for war with the blessing of her family. The detailed watercolor illustrations are designed to resemble ancient Chinese scrolls.
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Of Numbers and Stars: The Story of Hypatia, by Anne D. Love
My family recently listened to a history podcast about this impressive woman. This brightly illustrated picture book tells the story of a brilliant mathematician and philosopher, raised and educated in fourth century Alexandria, a time in which women’s ability to contribute to learned society was questioned by those in power. The book, designed for young children, omits the story of her grizzly death. Encourage your older students to find out more about this significant woman, considered by many to be a martyr of science.
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Rama and the Demon King: An Ancient Tale from India, by Jessica Souhami
In India, students of classical education are brought up on the ancient stories in the Vedas (early Hindu scriptures.) One of the most beloved tales comes from the Ramayana, and chronicles the love of Prince Rama and his bride, Sita. This picture book tells the story of how the good prince – with the help of an army of tough monkeys – saves Sita from the malicious Demon King, Ravana. According to the author, this story is said to confer a blessing upon all who hear it.
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Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale, by John Steptoe
This Caldecott-honored story is a charming folktale from ancient Zimbabwe. Though Manyara and Nyasha are physically lovely, one is foul-tempered, while the other is kind. The king of the land asks the girls to appear before him, that he may choose a worthy queen. Along the way to the royal city, these sisters are given a chance to prove their characters. Realistic pencil drawings accompany this beautiful story.
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Children Just Like Me: A Unique Celebration of Children Around the World by Barnabas and Anabel Kindersley
Kids seem universally drawn to this book. Even a 3- or 4-year-old child can spend time paging through the beautiful, clear photographs. Unlike the others mentioned here, this is not a story, nor does it focus on ancient times. However, our history-immersed SLOCA students will enjoy the chance to see what life is like for real kids in modern countries like Egypt, Iraq, Greece, and Rome. This book would make a great gift for a child of almost any age – it is a book they will pull from the shelf to look through again and again.
Thank you once again, Emily, for these thoughtful reviews and suggestions. These look like wonderful books to enjoy with our children! Happy reading, everyone.
SLO Classical Academy is not affiliated with any of the above mentioned websites or businesses.
