Encyclopedia of Ordinary Things
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My kids are enraptured by this thin book packed with extraordinary information about ordinary things.
What is it?
It’s a reference book that enlightens you about how ordinary things have evolved since prehistoric times.
Stepanka Sekaninova is an author from and who lives in the Czech Republic. She used to be a TV reporter and produce children’s programs. The illustrator, Eva Chupikova, ia also a Czech author and illustrator.
Pictorial chapters are devoted to just one object to enlighten you about prehistory, ancient Egypt, Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, the Baroque, and 19th century time periods.
Fun Fact! The early toothbrushes were chewing sticks that frayed into a brush. These chewing sticks have been found inside Egyptian tombs. Apparently they cared about dental hygiene in the after life as well!
Objects are shoes, skates, umbrellas, glasses, dolls, perfume, horse toys, toilets, toothbrushes, beds, and tights.
Works for a range of children’s ages - age 7-adult - it’s fascinating!
About $15-$20
3 Reasons Its Our Favorite:
Adds depth to ordinary items and connects you with history when you use the item.
Fun fact! Did you know that during the Renaissance Leonardo da Vinci invented the first toilet that flushed? It remained an idea, but that’s pretty amazing!
Exposes kids to historical language, people, and time period sequence in a fun, funny, and pictorial way. The artistic timeline at the bottom of every page really keeps you aware of the evolution of the object over time periods.
Helps kids appreciate the modern conveniences in their everyday life.
How We Use It:
It’s begins our “school” day (learning together) - it’s nice to start your day with a little innovation. We often pair it with Mrs. Wordsmith Word A Day before we dive in to our larger studies. It’s great for discussing our current day blessings and starting our day with positivity.
One child gets to pick one chapter for me to read aloud that day. The next day, it’s a different child and a different choice. You don’t have to go in book order; you can go in interest order.
If you are going to be studying world history anytime soon, this is a great book to expose your child to what life was like throughout the ages. If you are currently studying world history, this is a great book to begin your lesson!
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