All About China

February 1, 2015

Gr 1-3-This wide-ranging introduction to China covers everything from history and geography to etiquette and music, with recipes, games, art projects, and traditional folktales. Large watercolor paintings with informative captions break up the text, and topics frequently shift, making this one ideal for browsers. However, complicated points are overly simplified. For instance, the text claims that Taiwan was originally part of China and implies that it didn't separate until 1949, which ignores Taiwan's complicated colonial history and that it was ruled by Japan from 1895 to 1945. Making the recipes kid-friendly results in loss of authenticity for many, such as one for mooncakes (which ends up being a jelly-filled crescent roll). VERDICT Despite the drawbacks, this volume fills a collection hole in many libraries, as interest in China continues to grow and many comparable titles for this age group, such as China (DK, 2007), Discovering Cultures: China (Cavendish Square, 2002), and China (Children's Pr., 2008), are out of date. Purchase where needed.-Jennifer Rothschild, Arlington County Public Libraries, VA

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

December 15, 2014
Grades 3-6 This books celebrates, with an impressive scope, the cultural riches of China and its epic history as well as plenty of hands-on projects. Full-color maps depict important natural wonders and cultural sites along with geographic features and economic resources. Chinese history and government are explored, from Stone Age people through the great dynasties and into modern times. Daily life for modern Chinese people is described in positive ways and includes topics from education and work to pets and table etiquette. Sheet music for Chinese folk songs, tangrams for mental exercise, explanations of traditional Chinese medicine, and the basics of feng shui are all included. Kinesthetic learners in particular will benefit from the plentiful handicrafts, such as calligraphy of Chinese symbols and paper cutting. This beautifully illustrated book is a welcome, hands-on invitation to learn about Chinese history and culture.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)