Mark Twain for Kids: His Life & Times, 21 Activities (For Kids series)
Grade 4-8–This book brings together the intrigue and excitement that were part of Samuel Clemens's life, captures his eccentricities, highlights his strengths, and displays his frailties. The times in which he lived are expertly described; for example, the ramifications of the Civil War and the effects of the gold rush become part of the writer's story. The parallels between Clemens's life and the experiences of the characters in many of his books are also made clear. Rasmussen's folksy, familiar style of writing demonstrates a strong comfort level with his subject and an accurate understanding of his audience. Woven throughout the narrative are activities that range from elaborate, time-consuming projects such as making printer's type with potato cutouts to easy, almost simplistic ideas such as being a detective simply by watching people and then making notes about them. Abundant sidebars, illustrations, and photographs all provide interesting tangents for readers to explore. While libraries are chock-full of books about Clemens, some even by Rasmussen, this one will be appealing to many young readers.–Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MACopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.