- Best Books for Kids & Teens 2012, starred selection, The Canadian Children’s Book Centre
- “Filled with facts and pithy observations, each vignette is personalized, using a tongue-in-cheek tone for maximum accessibility.”– Library Media Connection, *starred review*, April 1, 2013
Ever thought of becoming an emperor? How about a silk maker?
China was one of the most advanced societies in the ancient world. Whether in medicine, the arts, or education, the Chinese far outpaced the Europeans. Although most people were peasants, society included a myriad of other jobs.
It may sound like a great position, but being emperor had its downside. If you displeased the gods, you could be put to death. As a silk maker, you would be sworn to secrecy so foreigners wouldn’t learn how to spin the precious thread. Other jobs included wailer (yes, you’ll cry whether you want to or not), noodle maker (noodles were not only delicious, but also a symbol of long life), or Shaolin warrior monk (if you were really good, you could break stone slabs with your fists).
A fact-filled introduction, index, and timeline make this book—the sixth in the series—perfect for research projects, while the humorous illustrations keep it fun. Check out the downloadable game you can play for free!
Reviews:
“This title promises to amaze readers with history.”
—School Library Journal, 07/12
“The humourous nature of the text is coupled beautifully with witty illustrations that bring the ancient culture to life.”
—CM Magazine, 05/12
“… a fascinating and fun look at what life was like in China more than 2000 years ago!”
—Resource Links, 04/12
“… a welcome addition to the literature for intermediate and middle grade students who often study ancient civilizations.”
—Sal’s Fiction Addiction, 04/24/12
“… manages to present obscure facts in a fascinating and clear manner.”
—wordupnerdup.com, 04/14/12
“This is an excellent resource for anyone studying Ancient China or for teachers who want to show children how professions have changed over time.”
—Canadian Children’s Book News, Summer/12
“Children … will linger long over the descriptions of the unusual occupations that people had in ancient China.”
—The Muskokan, 08/03/12
“… would make a good read aloud or teacher share when a class is studying Ancient China …”
—Lower Columbia Review Group, Washington Library Media Association, 10/12
“Despite the humorous comments and informal tone, the engaging narrative conveys a solid overview of ancient Chinese society and will satisfy school assignments.”
—boooklistonline.com, 11/07/12