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

Thursday 1 November 2012

Review: Warriors

On a family holiday in China, Vincent wonders why his father has brought to Xi’an. To explain, his father shares two stories from Chinese history with his son, an intriguing story of an ancient boy-king and a just as intriguing tale of modern discovery.

In a picture book largely illustrated by photographs by the author and others, Krista Bell shares the fascinating story of the Terracotta Warriors from their formation to their discovery some 2000 years later.

The Terracotta Warriors are one of the iconic images of Chinese history familiar to people around the world. Krista Bell brings the history of these silent guardians to life with her tale of their original purpose to guard Emperor Qin into the afterlife and the story of a farmer in 1974 who stumbled upon this secret burial site when he was digging a well on his property.

A combination of story and information, this picture book is sure to delight any child with an interest in history. Even without a particular interest in history, it is a fascinating book that is likely to appeal to readers across a range of ages. It has been enjoyed by all three of my children, with ages ranging from 8 – 13, and I think it would make a fantastic resource for primary school classrooms.


Title:  Warriors
Author: Krista Bell
Photographs:  Krista Bell, Ashley Colcott, Ilona Komesaroff, Fran Cosgrove, Keith Woodward
Publisher: Windy Hollow Books, $27.99 RRP
Publication Date: October 2012
Format:  Hardcover
ISBN: 9781922081032
For ages:  7 - 14
Type: Picture book for older readers