Book Review: John Audubon, Young Naturalist

February 5, 2007 No Comments »

John AudubonBorn Jean Jacques Audubon, John Audubon had a true love for birds and nature as a whole. Audubon’s name is one of the first of many things we learn about him as we move through this wonderful book. Like all of the books in the Young Patriots Series, John Audubon, Young Naturalist, is primarily rooted in historical fact. However, at the same time it is entertaining enough to keep your children reading.

Your children will want to learn because the books in the Young Patriots Series make learning fun. Suited for children 8-12 years old this book is a wonderful home school curriculum supplement or a reading project for a young nature lover.

Used as a home school supplement we were able to concentrate both on reading comprehension, with writing prompts, review questions, and discussions after each chapter, and science, where we discussed animals, birds, and nature in various forms. We also did a brief study of bird and animal art by looking at pictures by John Audubon and many other nature lovers.

The entire book was read quickly and was enjoyed thoroughly. Written by Miriam E. Mason, it was obvious to me and most likely other parents that Ms. Mason had extensive experience working with children. The book offered plenty of education with the right blend of unique fun for the entire family or classroom.

Your children will learn about Audubon from the moments of his young life, where he lived in the West Indies and then in France. As he grows older you will have a chance to watch his love for nature guide him and propel him into a class of his own.

Children will laugh in many spots and get excited as Audubon moves on to make his fortune in America. There are only a few illustrations by illustrator Cathy Morrison, but the ones that are available are both vivid and charming. Every child will appreciate them as they add to the story in their own way.

The special features of the book are also quite popular. Special features for John Audubon include a timeline of Audubon’s life, entertaining facts that explain things people may not know about Audubon, and a list of accomplishments that are worth celebrating.

Bottom Line: John Audubon was and is a positive role model that was able to follow his dreams. He turned his love of something into a way to be remembered forever. As an entertainment source for children who love to read or as a home school supplement for science, reading, or art this book is absolutely on the money.

Rating: Four Stars

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