Ancient History Summer Reading

Posted by Robin Fowler Jun 1, 2007

Summer is upon us, and school is out! But that doesn't mean that your young one has to abandon reading for the nest three months! For the child who is interested in history, particularly Ancient History and Mythology, or for the emerging reader, there is a series of books from the outstanding author Mary Pope Osborne that will not only satisfy that desire to learn, but will help to improve your child's reading skills!

Mary Pope Osborne is a celebrated author of many children's books, most notable the Magic Treehouse series. Chronicling the adventures of young Jack and Annie from their magic treehouse, Osborne sets her characters in many different time periods, referencing some of history's most important events and eras. Spanning nearly 40 books and research guides, the Magic Treehouse Series is wildly popular with the elementary school set, who devour these books like there is no tomorrow!

Osborne's careful and meticulous research is impressive, and it shows in her colorful and exciting stories. She weaves Jack and Annie into historical events, painting a vivid picture of times past for her readers. And for lovers of Ancient History and Mythology, Osborne has written a number of fun and interesting books, including:

• Mummies in the Morning, set in Ancient Egypt
• Vacation Under the Volcano, set in Ancient Pompeii
• Hour of the Olympics, set in Ancient Greece

In addition to these fun reads, Osborne has also published several research guides based on many of her titles in the Magic Treehouse series. These include:

• Mummies and Pyramids
• Ancient Greece and the Olympics
• Ancient Rome and Pompeii

These research guides are an excellent supplement to the books in the series, and they are great reads on their own. Among the topics Osborne covers in them are the lifestyles, politics, sports, prominent figures, and important dates of these ancient cultures.

In addition to the titles in Osborne's Magic Treehouse Series that are devoted to Ancient History, she has also published the series Tales from the Odyssey, a six book retelling of Homer's epic tale of the adventures of Odysseus. It stays true to the tales, but is written simply enough for emerging readers to wrap their heads around.

And for a visual treat, check out the recently published Pompeii Lost and Found, a gorgeously illustrated and simply written account of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, the aftermath, and Pompeii's rediscovery.

Summer reading doesn't have to be dull! Get your young reader loving books and Ancient History with the wonderful selections from author Mary Pope Osborne! They are available at book stores and public libraries everywhere!