Angel Dunworth’s The Victorian Era: History for Kids Who Hate History is a lively and whimsical dive into the fascinating time of Queen Victoria’s reign, as told through the eyes of Punxy, a playful character with a magic guitar that whisks them back in time. The book is a blend of storytelling, history, and imaginative engagement aimed at young readers. It makes the past approachable by weaving historical facts with vibrant illustrations and a touch of humor.

One of the standout qualities of this book is how it distills complex historical ideas into digestible bits without ever feeling dry. The story of Alice explaining how Lewis Carroll invented Alice in Wonderland is both charming and informative. Carroll’s whimsical storytelling origins, as recounted on a boat ride for Alice Liddell, capture the spirit of creativity that defines this era. I found myself smiling at how cleverly Dunworth uses rhymes to make details stick. This technique makes learning feel like a game.

Another highlight is how the book juxtaposes modern life with Victorian innovations, helping kids connect with the past. Punxy’s excitement over seeing an old-fashioned phonograph and realizing it’s now combined into our smartphones is pure joy. The playful “dance of joy” Punxy shares adds a layer of fun and relatability to what might otherwise feel like a dull history lesson. The book also touches on cultural aspects, like poetry and literature, with anecdotes about Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. This section shows how creativity in the Victorian era shaped modern storytelling.

The Victorian Era, by Angel Dunworth, is a delightful read that excels in making history fun for kids. Its mix of colorful illustrations, engaging dialogue, and clever rhymes makes it perfect for young readers who might typically shy away from traditional history books. I’d recommend it to children between ages 7 and 12, parents looking for interactive learning tools, or even teachers wanting to add a splash of fun to their curriculum. This book truly rocks and not just because of Punxy’s magic guitar!

Pages: 45 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0DK9PHSH5