Monday, July 2, 2018

Guts & Glory: The Vikings

Guts & Glory: The Vikings by Ben Thompson     320 pages

History comes alive for kids like no textbook can in this epic account of the time of the Vikings that's perfect for history buffs and reluctant readers! From battle-axe-wielding tribes plundering the greatest cities of Europe to powerful kings and queens ruling their dominions with iron fists, the Vikings were some of the most feared and fearless figures in European history. Find the bravest heroes, the most menacing villains, and unbelievably awesome facts and myths inside this action-packed overview that will amaze kids with tales of a people so incredible...it's hard to believe they were real.

This book is a great piece of narrative nonfiction for any young child looking to increase their knowledge of vikings without feeling like they're reading a textbook. This is one book in a series written by Thompson that attempts to make history interesting and readable to young readers. I think he accomplishes that goal handily with this book, which tells of the history of Vikings and how they shaped world history.

Using more modern terms and humor, Thompson easily engages the reader as he sets off telling Viking history through one historic Viking figure at a time. Each chapter is dedicated to a specific historic figure, with Thompson including bits and pieces that, as he admits, are probably embellished or myths about the figure that were passed down through the ages. The writing style and the subject matter combine to make one fascinating read that is sure to engage kids. It feels more like a chapter book than a history book, and that's so great.

I will definitely be recommending this book to young readers looking for a fun read, especially if they're fans of Vikings, but even for those who like books about knights and warriors.

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