C. Walter Hodges (1909–2004)

Excellent book about the mechanics of putting on a play by Shakespeare. Recounts a history of theater from the early Middle Ages to Shakespeare's time. Fascinating and occasionally rather funny. The book is divided into two inconspicuously marked chapters but has no table of contents. The illustrations on every page and the way the subject matter is covered make the book suitable for children, the language is sophisticated enough for adults. I really enjoyed the illustrations of the show more inanimate things; the maps, the theatre, the stage, the pageant wagons, but less so the illustrations of the people. show less

I laugh a little whenever I think about the fact that I read my kids a children's book about the Magna Carta. It's a little surprising to me that there even is a children's book about the Magna Carta. The fact that it's actually pretty enjoyable to read is a real bonus.

Hodges's asides within the text are a little distracting. It's possible, though, that it was only distracting because I wasn't yet accustomed to Hodges's style, or perhaps he'd not yet hit his stride in those early pages. For show more example, early in the book is a description of an illustration meant to portray the brutality of feudal life in the years just following the Battle of Hastings. Hodges is making up a story that could be behind the picture when he breaks into the flow of the text with, "And the gallows? Well, there are outlaws, there are poachers, there are always trouble-makers of one sort or another. The bodies which hang on the gallows will set an example to them. Who knows what has been happening in this case? Who cares? Only perhaps the peasant women in the foreground, and the little boy."

Beyond its being distracting, I think that this particular aside is a little too subtle for most elementary-aged readers. I felt a need to pause and have a little discussion with my daughter about what it is the author was saying and how he was saying it before we continued on.

Overall, I really liked that Hodges pointed out the way that history comes to us through all of the subjective opinions of the individuals who have passed it down. Without ever forgiving King John, Hodges notes that "some people think he was not so black as he is often painted, no worse in fact than most of his barons, and that as a rule in a difficult situation and a bad time he showed himself both energetic and resourceful." I appreciate this nuance being pointed out to young readers (it's a good lesson for older readers, too, for that matter).

After reading this book (and others about this era of British history), I can see why children through the ages have been so interested in the stories of Robin Hood, King Richard, and King John. I also for the first time really understood how the Magna Carta related to the United States Constitution. I learned about this connection in history class, but Hodges's book helped me see it as more than just a fact I memorized. show less

The illustrations perfectly complement the text in this charming book about a small neighbourhood's fight to survive. The small inner city street known as Plain Lane, home to a variety of small businesses and eccentric neighbours, is slated to be torn down for reconstruction. Adults and children alike join together to let the rest of the city know just how important this tiny neighbourhood is and how much of a loss it would be if the wrecking machines aren't stopped. And they win. It's a show more really inspiring story of community action with plenty of humour and a cast of memorable characters. show less

This book is so charming. Nicky and Linda's Uncle Ben is working on a new invention-a special gas balloon. When Aunt Daisy goes to the market, Uncle Ben decides to test his invention. Before they know it, they are airbourne! Off they go, sailing high over London, then out to sea and on to many exciting adventures. Illustrated in black and white by the author and the illustrations are terrific.