From School Library Journal
Grade 3-6–Eleven short but information-packed chapters take readers through the world of the Vikings. Landau doesn't mince words about their ruthless, violent attacks, but she also addresses their skills as traders, shipbuilders, farmers, fishermen, and craftsmen. Religion, housing, food, and clothing are also covered. Photos of sites and artifacts are supplemented by drawings to help explain content. Other illustrations are cartoons of the author and her dog Max as they time travel back to the Viking era. A map of Viking lands, settlements, and routes is included. Landau's breezy approach will appeal to young readers. However, the time-travel element and Max's cartoon comments are unnecessary and even distracting. The content has plenty of appeal on its own. Students looking for more in-depth material could turn to Sue Margeson's Viking (Knopf, 1994) or Melvin and Gilda Berger's The Real Vikings (National Geographic, 2003).–Peg Glisson, Mendon Center Elementary School, Pittsford, NY
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Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
