Big Book of History

It's a book. It's a time line. It's both. Big Book of History by Laura Welch, Ken Ham and Bodie Hodge is not your ordinary book with a timeline, however. The time line is the book, and the timeline doesn't ignore Christian history.

You can view the full color timeline in book fashion, in which case there are 21 highly readable pages. Or you can unfold the timeline (keeping the tail end attached to the book) and display it on a long table. Either way, your kids will learn about history from the beginning with Adam and Eve to the modern era when the 10 Commandments were removed from all public buildings in the U.S.

Each section of the timeline features colorful drawings and photographs, interesting text in a readable size, and fun factoids. For example, the first page features a literal 6 day creation, a paragraph about Adam and Eve, a question ("Was the fruit really an apple? Hint: look up Genesis 3."), a paragraph about Cain and Abel, and more.

Other pages feature events such as the Trojan horse, the 7 wonders of the ancient world, the first use of the yo-yo, the first batteries and lighthouses, the first military submarine, Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show, the invention of television, and all the major biblical events.

The slant here is definitely toward a literal Bible, creationism, and a Christian America.

What I Like: This is a fun, engaging way to get kids interested in history. There are so many fun facts, lists, and questions to ponder or research; I spent a lot of time pouring over this one.

What I Dislike: Nothing.
Overall Rating: Excellent.

Age Appeal: According to the publisher, 7 - 12, but many younger children will enjoy having this book read to them, or will enjoy just looking at the pictures. And plenty of older kids - and adults! - will like this book, too.
Publishing Info: New Leaf Publishing Group, 2011; ISBN: 978-0890516232; hardback, 21 pgs., $19.99.

Buy Now at Amazon.com for $13.59

OR buy at ChristianBook.com for $13.49

Special Info: Watch a video trailer for this book. Purchase the Big Book of History Teacher's Guide for $5.99 at ChristianBook.com or for $6.99 at Amazon.com. Or buy just the unbound timeline (ideal for hanging on a wall) for $12.99 for ChristianBook.com or $13.25 from Amazon.com.