The Story of Salt
Starred Review.Grade 3-6–Using the same format as inThe Cod's Tale(Putnam, 2001), Kurlansky uses salt as the lens through which to present a new perspective on history. Chiseling the story down from his adult bookSalt: A World History(Penguin, 2003), the author mixes science, history, and personal anecdotes, resulting in a fascinating look at this amazing substance. He defines its make-up, examines the ways it appears in nature, and discusses the important role it has played in various civilizations through the ages. Schindler's humorously detailed pen-and-ink drawings with colorful washes enliven the narrative and help to convey the wealth of information in the text. Data and illustrated graphs and maps further enhance the presentation. A lively and well-researched title, with exemplary art.–Carol S. Surges, McKinley Elementary School, Wauwatosa, WICopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.