By Nuria Roca
Illustrated by Rosa M. Curto
Barron's Educational Series, Inc.
www.barronseduc.com
250 Wireless Boulevard
Hauppauge, New York, 11788
Your Family Tree is one of four books in the "What Do You Know About?" series by Barron's Publishing. These books are geared toward younger children, ages 4-7. The 10" x 10" book boasts an extremely sturdy cover and heavy, glossy pages.
Your Family Tree begins by comparing a family tree to a real tree and explaining the concept. We are then introduced to Martin, the main character, and his family ancestors. As we learn about Martin's family history, we encounter and understand terms such as "maternal" and "paternal." Readers are encouraged to share stories about their own great-grandparents as Martin learns about his.
In examining his own family tree, Martin discovers the similarities between himself and members of his family. Again, readers are encouraged to reflect on ways they are similar to other family members. Family and diversity is celebrated as Martin reflects on his cousins and how much they enjoy one another even with their many differences.
The book ends by offering several activities to complete. Children can glue pictures to a family tree, create a Family Book, draw family pictures, and make a tree with dangling pictures. This is a fun, simple book that is enjoyable and educational at the same time. It would make a very good introduction to the concept of family history and ancestors.
Product review by Dena Wood, The Old Schoolhouse Magazine, LLC, June 2007
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