I imagine that younger children will enjoy browsing through this wonderful book with an adult to guide them, whilst older readers will enjoy negotiating their own reading journey across the world!
I can imagine that younger children will enjoy browsing through this wonderful book with an adult to guide them through the cornucopia of facts contained on each beautifully-illustrated page, whilst older readers (including adults!) will be able to negotiate their own reading-journey in a way which suits them best. The end papers at the front of the book feature global maps which show where each of the twenty-six featured countries (I’m a bit surprised that the UK isn’t one of them!) is located and gives the relevant page number. The following two pages allow the reader to browse the recipes which are included, whilst the final page and inner-back cover provide a comprehensive index of recipes, ingredients and other facts. The penultimate two pages offer a fascinating, illustrated timeline which features key historical moments between 1207-2020. As I’m sure this isn’t a tome meant to be read cover to cover, these features certainly make ‘navigating’ the book much easier. The bite-sized pieces of history, cultural references and culinary traditions offer ‘easy to digest’ information about each of the countries, some useful insights into the history of food and help children learn about where particular ingredients come from.
With its beautiful illustrations, its age-appropriate text and such a wide range of recipes for children (and adults!) to try, this is a book which makes learning fun … and tasty!