Books in History in Art series

Ever thought of becoming an emperor? How about a silk maker? China was one of the most advanced societies in the ancient world. Whether in medicine, the arts, or education, the Chinese far outpaced the Europeans. Although most people were peasants, society included a myriad of other jobs. It may sound like a great position, but being emperor had its downside. If you displeased the gods, you could be put to death. As a silk maker, you would be sworn to secrecy so foreigners wouldn't learn how to spin the precious thread. Other jobs included wailer (yes, you'll have to cry whether you want to or not), noodle maker (noodles were not only delicious, but also a symbol of long life), or Shaolin warrior monk (if you were really good, you could break stone slabs with your fists). A fact-filled introduction, index, and timeline make this book--the sixth in the series--perfect for research projects, while the humorous illustrations keep it fun.

What were some of the world's most famous people like when they were kids? This fresh and fun biography gives kids a peek into the childhood of groundbreaking physicist Albert Einstein! Stunning comic strips, fact boxes, and timelines bring his story to life. Albert Einstein revolutionized our understanding of reality, and with this engaging biography young readers can discover more about the childhood world of this scientific genius. It captures Einstein’s formative experiences as a boy in Germany—including the Jewish community surrounding him, his difficult time alone at boarding school, and the beginnings of his brilliant career.

What were some of the world's most famous people like when they were kids? This fresh and fun biography gives kids a peek into the childhood of writer, lecturer, and activist Helen Keller. Stunning comic strips, fact boxes, and timelines bring her story to life. Left blind and deaf from a childhood illness, Helen Keller broke barriers, learning sign language and eventually becoming the first person with her disability to earn a Bachelor of Arts. This fast-paced and fascinating account of her early life details her inspiring journey towards being able to communicate with those around her and spread a message of tolerance and understanding.

What were some of the world's most famous people like when they were kids? This fresh and fun biography gives kids a peek into the childhood of musical genius Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Stunning comic strips, fact boxes, and timelines bring his story to life. As a child prodigy, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart not only played keyboards and violin expertly from a very young age, but he also began composing small pieces at just five years old and wrote his first symphony at eight. Music-loving children can learn all about Mozart’s childhood, including his performances for the rich and the famous throughout the courts of Europe and his fraught relationship with his devoted father.

Ahoy maties! This thrilling kit recreates life in the golden age of pirates — at sea, in port, in battle, and at a secret pirate hideaway. With the help of Jack, the Sea Serpent’s cabin boy, children learn to tie knots, swab the deck, and mend sails. It’s smooth sailing until the boat is taken over by pirates! Then, with the incredible 3-D model of a pirate ship, youngsters can stage exciting scenes like Captain Barracuda’s deadly attack and a violent storm that shipwrecks the crew. A dramatically illustrated, 24-page book with fascinating pirate facts, along with over 50 press-out models and two collectible pirate figures, provide more swashbuckling fun.

Considered celebrities in their own time, Roman gladiators were adored by the masses and royalty alike. This enchanting kit helps children experience their world. Using the two collectible gladiator figures included, young readers first enter the grueling training school and then advance to fight inside the magnificent amphitheater. A series of scenes enables them to explore the mighty Rome at its height, travel through the countryside, and watch a breathtaking chariot race! Over 40 press-out models with bases encourage a variety of narratives, while the book’s clever construction lets readers enjoy their adventures both inside and outside the arena.