Anna Claybourne

Daily life tidbits, exotic foods, pet peculiarities, tons of known (and lesser known) sights and so much more make this book into a smorgasbord for anyone ready to dive into the colorful streets and cool corners of Tokyo.

Like a real tourist or adventurer embarking on a trip, the first page lays out a map of Tokyo. Little pinpoints show where each 'trail'or topic area, included in the neighboring table of contents, is geographically located. There are 19 themes, each consisting of about six show more pages. And these are packed. . .and I do mean stuffed to the gills. . .with all sorts of fun, eye-raising, or simply interesting bits of information. Everything from whimsical architecture to mouth-watering snacks to goblins or even fashion is presented in a way curious minds are sure to enjoy and soak up.

The pages are colorful and almost chaotic, bringing across an air of excitement and liveliness, which is certain to be found when strolling down the streets of Tokyo. A path follows through the pages, marking each 'sight' with an English and Japanesse name, and then a paragraph description as well as a delightful photo or illustration. The information doesn't dribble across like the drool of a rattling teacher, but radiates the excitement of an enthusiastic guide. The wording grabs while still bringing across exactly that information kids of this age group crave.

This isn't the type of book to be read from start to finish in one setting (it would be over-whelming to even try to do this) but invites to be visited time and again. The mountain of information ensures that something new will be discovered with every visit, and many things are worthy of being shared with friends and offer new insights into the life, culture and simply variety Tokyo has to offer.

Curious readers ages eight and up, who love learning more about life and the world, are sure to devour this book and will come out knowing so much more. show less

I really love evolution and I think this is a pretty good book if one needs to explain it to children (or adults). The art is fun and cute, and I think it is a good transition from picture-books to this slightly more involved and grown-up topic. I only have a couple small picky complaints but overall enjoyed it very much, and I will strongly consider buying this for my daughter.

Picky thing #1: On the first page I saw this line: "Evolution also explains why there used to be many other show more creatures, such as dinosaurs, which no longer exist." Obviously the sentiment is true, but our best evidence is that dinosaurs no longer exist due to an environmental catastrophe, not evolutionary change. Evolution is way cooler than dinosaurs being eradicated by a meteor (which is even addressed on page 11!), and creatures that don't exist now because of evolution are things like common ancestors which are super cool but probably less well known.

Picky thing #2: In the discussion on page 21 of humans being the only animal to have complex culture when we know that other species do have culture, including complex family groups and tool use. However I was very glad to see the point made that evolution doesn't have a "point" or try to reach "higher."

My only other feedback would be a request for a "for more information on evolution, check out these books/resources!" section at the end of the book. I would love to know further child-appropriate reading on the topic!

I received this book in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley. show less

Another really well done book for younger readers/learners. This one would be a better choice for kids who like to build something they can play with afterward. Each of the rides (carousel, Ferris wheel, bumper cars, roller coaster, swing ride and helter-skelter) can be played with and enjoyed after being built. Even better, should one of them wear out, another can easily be built. A great choice for youngsters who have focus issues, but are willing to persevere.

I requested this book because my daughter is obsessed with mermaids, and I thought I'd check this out. I found it an interesting compendium of mermaid tales from around the world, including a history of mermaid sightings in history and stories of faked mermaids. I am not sure about the art - the style didn't work for me on my computer, but it *might* look better in a book. It was really hard for me to tell. It wasn't bad, but it looked a little ... undetailed, but that might present better show more on paper. I also wish there was some sort of back matter or "for further reading" at the end. For what it is, it was enjoyable, but I tend to expect more.

I received this book as an electronic ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. show less