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| Map of modern Germany and Poland |
Author Carole P. Roman takes the young reader to Germany and Poland and helps them imagine themselves as a child living in homes and going to school. These books are not history discourses and do not point out the centuries of conflict in the region encompassed by Poland and Germany. They are introductions into the cultures of the area.
If You Were Me and Lived in ... Poland
My thoughts: Poland is a land rich in history. In musical history, Poland boasts being the birthplace of Frederick Chopin. If you love classical music, you are much aware of his beautiful music. This little book speaks of benches with buttons you can push and they render Chopin's music. What a treat to enjoy. Also, the discovery of how our Earth moves around the Sun was made by a Polish scientist, Nicolaus Copernicus and the famous salt mine that has many beautifully carved chambers is accented as Polish heritage.
In each of the "If You Were Me" books by Roman, the story line is basically the same in which the boy and girl associate themselves in a Polish family going about their day - eating, playing, going to school and identifying landmarks. I find it fascinating to see the food eaten at a meal or perhaps a treat purchased while out-and-about. Playing in Poland usually is an out of doors activity but they have a few inside toys.
The glossary at the end of the book will help the young reader pronounce and define words particular to Poland.
Another entertaining source to educate on the geographic and cultural information of a country for the young reader.
In each of the "If You Were Me" books by Roman, the story line is basically the same in which the boy and girl associate themselves in a Polish family going about their day - eating, playing, going to school and identifying landmarks. I find it fascinating to see the food eaten at a meal or perhaps a treat purchased while out-and-about. Playing in Poland usually is an out of doors activity but they have a few inside toys.
The glossary at the end of the book will help the young reader pronounce and define words particular to Poland.
Another entertaining source to educate on the geographic and cultural information of a country for the young reader.
If You Were Me and Lived in ... Germany
My thoughts: Beautifully illustrated with cheerful people, and combined drawings and photographs the social story of Germany is told touching on family life and the names of items such as food, toys, school. The area is Bavaria and is beautifully forested. The food you would eat at home or when on an outing is described and makes me long for a good German inspired Reuben. The love of soccer and the Oktoberfest which they have been celebrating for centuries are much anticipated and loved activities.
The location of Germany on the world globe with famous landmark buildings and locations touches on the geography of the country but the main focus is understanding the people and their interactions and daily life.
Some accomplishments of the Germanic peoples are the focus in this introduction to cultures highlighting the good from this area and not the dark history that has plagued them. The glossary at the end of the book aids in definition and pronunciation of a variety of words.
This will be a good entertaining and educational introduction to the culture of Germany for children.
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Begins January 28
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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of each book to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given. Winners' copies are sent compliments of and directly to them by the author.
I am a Polish and German professional genealogist, born in Germany of a German father and a German/Polish mother. My mom's part of Germany is now in Poland. I have been to both countries and done research there and found relatives, etc. I would love to pass this interest and culture to my grandkids, 2 of which have gone to Germany with me. But I want to instill in them more about the wonderful heritage!
ReplyDeleteI have never travelled in that part of the world but would love to some day and I like reading about Germany and Poland. Both my and my husband’s family came from Germany. In fact on my Mother’s side I am related to Bach. These books would be great to give to my grandkids! Thanks for the review.
ReplyDelete(1) What do you know about Polish or German culture?I know a little, like when someone dies, you bring white flowers to the funeral.
ReplyDelete2) Have you ever traveled to either Poland or Germany? If so, what was your favorite part of your trip that you visited? I lived in Germany for 5 years. I loved the buildings and food.
I don't know a whole lot about Polish culture. But I know that in Germany one of the funnest times of year is at Christmastime. They have what's called 'Christkindlemarkts' (I forget how to spell it correctly). These markets are outdoors and they sell everything from Bratwurst to handmade Christmas ornaments.
ReplyDeleteI've lived in Germany, two different times. There are too many things to name my favorite. One huge advantage that Germany has over the USA is their extensive railroad system. One can get on a train even in fairly remote areas and travel just about anywhere in Germany and in Western Europe for that matter.
1. I know the Germany has many castles and the castle as Disney World was patterned after Neuschwanstein Castle.
ReplyDelete2. I visited Germany, my favorite part was Oktoberfest.
We love this series! Thanks for sharing this at Booknificent Thursday at Mommynificent.com!
ReplyDeleteTina
I saw the Passion Play in Oberammegau Germany in 1970. It only takes place every 10 years and the whole town helps. There are a lot of wood carvers in Germany and of course the lively music and dancing.
ReplyDeleteMy husband's family was from Poland and mine from Germany but have new er traveled there.
ReplyDeleteMy oldest daughter is learning German right now in school. She would love this book! Thanks for this giveaway!
ReplyDelete#ProductReviewParty
I really don't know much about Polish or German culture and I have never visited. These books would be awesome for homeschooling!
ReplyDeleteI really don't know anything about Polish or German culture.
ReplyDeleteI've never visited either country.
I know a little bit about German culture. I have traveled to Germany with the military and absolutely loved the warmth of the people and the food.
ReplyDeleteI don't know too much about German or Polish culture. I also haven't visited either country. It would be neat to do so!
ReplyDeleteI have never visited Poland or Germany. I only know about Polish culture through my husband's family (they are Polish).
ReplyDelete