This past week, we read an amazing book called,
“A-Z of Convicts in Van Diemen’s Land”.
It was about Tasmania’s convict history
and it was fascinating.
It was also gorgeously illustrated
and well deserved its book award.
Brace yourself for the size of this book though.
It’s HUGE and will be a challenge for any bookshelf.
But, don’t let the size deter you from buying it.
The size enhances the amazing illustrations.
Check out the attention to detail in this book.
It’s truly impressive.
There are lots of these ‘cut-out’ type illustrations
and you could pore over them for ages.
I did!
There’s also a lot of historical detail in the book.
I learned so many new things.
But, as well as information about the convict period in Tasmania,
there’s information about specific characters too, both convicts and free people.
Over the years, we’ve read a lot of books about Australia’s early history,
and I think this is one of the best in terms of illustrations and information.
However, it’s not the easiest book to read aloud and the text isn’t very detailed,
but, I still rank this title as a great book.
Perhaps not a living book, according to Charlotte Mason’s definition,
but, if illustrations could be ‘living’, then this book would definitely be a living book.
I highly recommend it.
It has been perfect for preparing us for our trip to Hobart.
Lynda
August 27, 2018 at 10:01 am
Totally agree with you on the A-Z of convicts book Tracey, it’s fantastic. We’ve borrowed it a number of times from the library and took ages pouring over those awesome illustrations. It doesn’t make the best read aloud, it’s better suited to individual reading and the size is a bit problematic which is why I am happy to just borrow it. Perhaps it could double as a stable table 😀