Explore Ancient Chinese Myths!: With 25 Great Projects

Description

Age range 7 to 10 Who is the lady who floated to the moon? Did a monkey really hatch from an egg? Did tears bring down the Great Wall of China? Does the sky rest on the legs of a turtle? In Explore Ancient Chinese Myths! With 25 Projects, readers ages 7 to 10 soar on a journey through ancient China to learn about history, geography, science, and art through stories that have been told and retold for thousands of years. They learn the tales of past heroes and wise kings, brave goddesses and gods who brought riches, rain, and immortality. Then there are the gods who taught people how to live by sharing their knowledge of agriculture, writing, music, and math. The myths and legends told by the ancient Chinese that have survived into modern times showcase the ingenuity and passion that this culture has applied to problem solving and cultural expression. Through the 25 hands-on projects, kids will have fun and gain a deeper understanding of ancient Chinese myths. Projects include making mooncakes, writing in Chinese, designing a New Year's story board game, and observing the stars. Exploring myths and legends is also a way to discover how ancient China is still impacting the world today through inventions such as fireworks, silk, paper, and printing. In addition, kids will be invited to think about how Chinese culture is similar or different from their life today. By combining social studies and literature with activities, fun facts, jokes, and cartoons, Explore Ancient Chinese Myths offers the opportunity to discover Ancient China through myths and legends.

Anita Yasuda is the author of more than 100 books for children. In 2013, she won the Honor Book award, Science for grades K-12, Society of School Librarians International for Explore Flight! With 25 Great Projects and in 2012, she won the gold Moonbeam award for her book Explore The Wild West! 25 Great Activities. She is a member of the Society of Children's Books Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI). She lives with her family in Huntington Beach, California. Tom Casteel is an illustrator and cartoonist with a master's degree from the Center for Cartoon Studies. Tom has illustrated several books for Nomad Press, including The Brain: Journey Through the Universe Inside Your Head; Cities: Discover How They Work; and Human Migration: Investigate the Global Journey of Humankind. Tom lives in South Bend, Indiana.

- Explore Greek Myths! With 25 Great Projects - School Library Journal: A jam-packed, informative title on ancient Greek myths. Yasuda isn't just retelling the old familiar tales. Instead, she has placed the myths in context so that each chapter is a different exploration of ancient Greek life and culture. . . The illustrations are cartoon like, befitting the airy and colorful design. . . Explore Ancient Chinese Myths is a great addition to the Explore Your World series, especially the neat projects--25 of them, including making a bronze bowl, handmade paper, and even a Mulan poster. Don't miss this one! This resource is packed with a little bit of everything regarding ancient China. The bulk of the book is thorough and descriptive informational text about China's land, people, traditions, and religions. The importance of storytelling in Chinese culture is woven throughout, and readers will be introduced to numerous Chinese myths, legends, and fables. The text itself is possibly too challenging in length and complexity for second or third graders, but this book is more than just its text. Each page provides asides including discussion, essential, and "did you know?" questions that teachers and librarians will appreciate. Several QR codes are included that link to additional visuals and audio elements. The accompanying projects vary in skill level and range from cooking and writing to game design and instrument making. While all of these additions offer ways to extend learning and ensure this resource has something for everyone interested in ancient China, it is possible that the number of text features might distract certain readers. Additional Resources. Glossary. Index. Timeline Recommended Great Ancient China Projects You Can Build Yourself Children's Literature: "In ancient China, wise scholars were experts in many subjects. This book will give young scholars the opportunity to learn about many of the same subjects. The book explains the dynasties, famous and influential Chinese citizens, and many of the inventions that came from China . . . This book is a great resource for adults teaching children about China or any of the disciplines rooted in China."