By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: May 24, 2013
If You Were Me and Lived in … France: A Child’s Introduction to Cultures Around the World
By Carole P. Roman
Paperback: 26 pages
Age Range: 3-7
Publisher: CreateSpace (May 2, 2013)
What to expect: France, Places, French words, Culture
Bonjour! Welcome to France, the second book in this new educational and enlightening series where award-winning author Carole P. Roman (Captain No Beard series) introduces young children to cultures around the world by sharing details on places, foods, sports, language and more.
The books in Roman’s cultural series follow a distinct formula: They begin with an illustration of a globe to show the location of the books destination and then an exploration of a specific country takes place. In this case, the narrators, a boy and a girl, are pointing to Western Europe on the globe and naming the country of France. The narrators talk readers through a tour of France: Paris and the Eiffel Tower are visited, as well as a boulangerie (where “euros” are discussed) and école (school). Crepes are eaten, football/soccer is mentioned, and Bastille Day is celebrated. An appendix concludes the book, offering a list of the French words used throughout, complete with correct pronunciation: Paris-(pair-EE), Eiffel-(Eye-Ful). The always-happy narrators have been drawn with big blue eyes and inviting smiles—the raw illustrations are child-centric and appealing to young readers.
It is the simplistic and positive way that Roman, a former social studies teacher, delivers the text, that makes this series appealing—the books are short and to the point and just want you want when you’re introducing geography and culture to the youngest reading set. Francophiles and travel enthusiasts just may be created after a read-aloud session followed by a snack of crepes filled with a warm chocolaty hazelnut spread. Bien!
Add this book to your collection: If You Were Me and Lived in … France: A Child’s Introduction to Cultures Around the World
For more information, visit: http://caroleproman.com
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