Wordy Wednesday's Book Reviews

OH, how I love our local library! It's a small one, but after so many months of browsing and borrowing, I still find gems. The boys come home from school to meet a stack on their beds, and they are delighted.

Robin Hood: History, Myth or Legend? This book tells the full tale, from gutsy Maid Marian to wicked Guy of Gisborne and all the antics in between, with gorgeous pencil and colour illustrations. In the back there is a section detailing the 'Facts', such as that there is no proof Robin Hood ever existed! There are historical references to the Barnsdale Outlaws and real people mentioned in the stories. Thought-provoking information makes this book perfect for teens and young hero-worshippers alike. A reading list is included, for those who would like to learn more.

'Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them' for Harry Potter fans!

A 'school textbook' with a foreword by Albus Dumbledore and schoolboy doodles everywhere, this is a winner.

All royalties from the sale of this book go to Comic Relief, so you should definitely buy it. Just click! 





Avatar An Activist Survival Guide, 'A Confidential Report on the Biological and Social History of Pandora'. This is really interesting, an introduction to science, geology, and environmental studies in disguise.

The book "...has been circulated without the knowledge or consent of the Resources Development Administration. Anyone found in possession of this document faces imprisonment or more extreme punishment." It is directed at 'Fellow Terrans' who are fighting for freedom of information and culture in a fictional future. My older boys have pored over the interesting 'Facts' and behind-the-scenes information on weapons, biology, genetics, superconductivity, octal arithmetic (the Na'vi have eight digits to our ten: base maths), Na'vi songs and language, flora and fauna, and freedom of speech.

My mum spotted 'How to be an Explorer of the World: Portable Art Life Museum' at the Art Museum, and bought it for the boys. This is a sort of workbook, showing how EVERYTHING is interesting, from rubbish to leaves to stains on the sidewalk. Looking at patterns, collecting interesting things and taking notes prepares kids (and grownups) for a lifetime of observation and wondering.

Ahh, BOOKS! How we love them.