'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Wednesday, 2 September 2015

Review: An English Year - Twelve Months in the Life of England's Kids

Five children from differing cultures again take us into their lives through a year of English living. Their multicultural heritage, traditions and customs blend with their English way of life to create a spectacular contribution to England and English living.

As with the companion books, An Aussie Year and A Scottish Year, there are lots of things to be learnt about the English way of life and its multicultural mix. This is a highly detailed book with lots of information over a broad range of subjects.

From breakfast tables to picnics, cold weather and indoor games, then warmer weather and outdoor sports; everything changes with the seasons. Holidays, fun and celebrations fill each page. Famous landmarks, sporting events, festivals, fairs, food and celebrations of every kind become part of the endless stream of activities and interests featured on each page.

It’s a delightful book of exploration and discovery of a cultural kind beginning from the stunning endpages. Tina Snerling’s divine illustrations immediately engage the reader and add life and movement to every page. Tania McCartney’s clever use of language and word play add zest and entertainment to a well-designed and superbly presented publication.

This book along with its companion titles, is a valuable resource for those wanting to explore other cultures, their traditions and customs and how enriched countries have become due to the many multicultural influences. It’s a must for libraries and schools, tourist and travel shops.

Title: An English Year: Twelve Months in the Life of England’s Kids
Author: Tania McCartney
Illustrator: Tina Snerling
Publisher: EK Books, $19.99 RRP
Publication Date: September 2015
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781921966866
For ages: 6+
Type: Junior Non-Fiction, Picture Book