Review of Find Me In Time
Posted: 20 Apr 2023, 01:52
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Find Me In Time" by L.T. Caton.]
What happens when you discover that not everything you learned in your history class was factually accurate? Don't you ever wonder who documented that chronology? Not surprisingly, the survivors or the conquerors dictate the narratives that often get passed down as history. Every tale, historical event, and battle can be portrayed differently, depending on the narrator's allegiance. Wouldn't it be interesting to understand an uncelebrated version of history? In her book, Find Me In Time: Meeting Columbus, the author L.T. Caton does just that.
The story begins with Ashley and her friends playing a game of hide-and-seek in the woods. They are unaware that they are about to go through something genuinely unbelievable. They discover a magical sycamore treehouse by accident. It transports them back in time to significant historical moments. Among other things, they witness a thrilling and scary action sequence during the Texas Revolution. They build their confidence and prepare for their next time-traveling adventure. As the book's title suggests, they eventually meet Christopher Columbus. What happens when they encounter the famous Italian explorer? Many consider him a hero, but does he live up to the expectations? Who else do they meet on their mystical adventures? Get a copy of this book right away to find all the answers.
The author has used an attractive cover and beautiful illustrations to grab the young readers' attention. I loved the way the author used this story to present a unique take on history. She tells the tale from the perspective of the Taino people, describing how they perceived Columbus' arrival at Guanahani. I wholeheartedly commend the author for including this much background material without making it seem like a history textbook. That, in my opinion, is the most effective strategy for memorizing historical events. She also shares interesting facts about Columbus Day and the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous Taino community.
Having put immense effort into making the graphics engaging, the author should have gone one step further to give a pictographic introduction to the characters. It would have helped the readers connect with them. It is merely a suggestion and has no bearing on the final rating. Another thing that caught my attention was the phrase "What the..." that appeared in two instances. Although no foul words followed that, we all know how that ends. I think it is a little out of place, given that this book is for children in the reading age range of 6 to 11 years. That is the only criticism I have about this book. But that doesn't necessitate taking away a star.
Undoubtedly, the author's experience as a teacher has helped deliver this exceptionally well-edited book. She is passionate about telling the stories of people from diverse cultures while making history enjoyable. It is distinctly noticeable in her writing skills. I immensely enjoyed the value this book brings to young readers. So, I rate the book 5 out of 5 stars.
This book is fantastic for children interested in learning about history in a new way. I also recommend that parents read this book because they may be able to use it as a teaching tool. Furthermore, it will appeal to readers who like historical fiction.
******
Find Me In Time
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
What happens when you discover that not everything you learned in your history class was factually accurate? Don't you ever wonder who documented that chronology? Not surprisingly, the survivors or the conquerors dictate the narratives that often get passed down as history. Every tale, historical event, and battle can be portrayed differently, depending on the narrator's allegiance. Wouldn't it be interesting to understand an uncelebrated version of history? In her book, Find Me In Time: Meeting Columbus, the author L.T. Caton does just that.
The story begins with Ashley and her friends playing a game of hide-and-seek in the woods. They are unaware that they are about to go through something genuinely unbelievable. They discover a magical sycamore treehouse by accident. It transports them back in time to significant historical moments. Among other things, they witness a thrilling and scary action sequence during the Texas Revolution. They build their confidence and prepare for their next time-traveling adventure. As the book's title suggests, they eventually meet Christopher Columbus. What happens when they encounter the famous Italian explorer? Many consider him a hero, but does he live up to the expectations? Who else do they meet on their mystical adventures? Get a copy of this book right away to find all the answers.
The author has used an attractive cover and beautiful illustrations to grab the young readers' attention. I loved the way the author used this story to present a unique take on history. She tells the tale from the perspective of the Taino people, describing how they perceived Columbus' arrival at Guanahani. I wholeheartedly commend the author for including this much background material without making it seem like a history textbook. That, in my opinion, is the most effective strategy for memorizing historical events. She also shares interesting facts about Columbus Day and the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous Taino community.
Having put immense effort into making the graphics engaging, the author should have gone one step further to give a pictographic introduction to the characters. It would have helped the readers connect with them. It is merely a suggestion and has no bearing on the final rating. Another thing that caught my attention was the phrase "What the..." that appeared in two instances. Although no foul words followed that, we all know how that ends. I think it is a little out of place, given that this book is for children in the reading age range of 6 to 11 years. That is the only criticism I have about this book. But that doesn't necessitate taking away a star.
Undoubtedly, the author's experience as a teacher has helped deliver this exceptionally well-edited book. She is passionate about telling the stories of people from diverse cultures while making history enjoyable. It is distinctly noticeable in her writing skills. I immensely enjoyed the value this book brings to young readers. So, I rate the book 5 out of 5 stars.
This book is fantastic for children interested in learning about history in a new way. I also recommend that parents read this book because they may be able to use it as a teaching tool. Furthermore, it will appeal to readers who like historical fiction.
******
Find Me In Time
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
