Richard Panchyk

I am very fond of archaeology. I have very deep feelings for the Science and method. So I was pleasantly pleased when my two-year-old pulled this from the non-fiction shelves at the library and insisted on checking it out.

The book is stock full of information and games to teach more about history and how archaeology fits into discovering our past. The book is organized into seven neat chapters, starting with an introduction to archaeology, and progressing through time and different aspects show more and processes used.

This is a good book for the curious child, the Indiana Jones fan, or those wanting to get a better idea of what takes place behind the scenes of a dig. It also has the different jobs that archaeologists perform offered in each chapter, ideal for those looking to start a career in archaeology.

The activities spread throughout were a nice supplement to the text, which admittedly can be dry at times, but would be great as a supplemented section at the back, or offered also in an appendix.

I think we will be trying the Time Capsule activity this weekend. It will be fun to see what everyone chooses for their contribution to the capsule! show less

Uncolorful - all b&w even though some pictures are referred to as color - collection of NYC skyscraper and other tall things, such as bridges, postcards is entertaining. The captions could be a bit more descriptive and contain a few minor errors. It has been a long time, however, since NYC led the world in skyscrapers. Currently, it's Hong Kong. And many of NYC's skyscrapers are pretty drab compared to their modern competition. However, the Chrysler Building will always be a classic and show more impossible to top! show less

Maps have been a part of human culture since the days of scratching on cave walls, and this richly illustrated history chronicles the road from simple diagrams used to avoid danger to the complex, navigational charts used today. Displaying an array of historic atlases and a variety of cartography styles, this book allows young readers to test their map-reading skills while discovering the intricate beauty and the wealth of information held within. Geographical concepts are spotlighted show more through an assortment of guided activities—including finding the elevation of hills, plotting a course with a magnetic compass, creating three-dimensional land models using a contour map, and performing a plot survey. Drawing the conclusion that the study of geography and maps is crucial to understanding an ever-changing planet, this handbook discloses the ways in which technological advances in cartography can further discussions on climate change, warfare, environmental conservation, population growth, and other timely topics. show less

Galileo, one of history's best-known scientists, is introduced in this illuminating activity book. Children will learn how Galileo's revolutionary discoveries and sometimes controversial theories changed his world and laid the groundwork for modern astronomy and physics. This book will inspire kids to be stargazers and future astronauts or scientists as they discover Galileo's life and work. Activities allow children to try some of his theories on their own, with experiments that include show more playing with gravity and motion, making a pendulum, observing the moon, and painting with light and shadow. Along with the scientific aspects of Galileo's life, his passion for music and art are discussed and exemplified by period engravings, maps, and prints. A time line, glossary, and listings of major science museums, planetariums, and web sites for further exploration complement this activity book. show less