April 15, 2017
Grades 3-6 The highly visual books in the DK findout! series are eye-catching and fact rich. The illustrations are the focal point of every page and include an array of artifacts, period artwork, photos, digital artwork and infographics, and reenactor-like pictures of historical scenes. Each comprehensive volume conveys information through short paragraphs, captions, fast facts, and brief interviewsboth real (with subject experts) and imagined (with a historic figure). A time line runs along the end papers and a preliminary quiz lets readers test their knowledge before diving into the main text. Unsurprisingly, Pirates covers notorious captains, ships, weapons, and booty, but readers may not be aware that several types of pirates sailed the seas, such as buccaneers, privateers, and river pirates. The enticing format of this series is busy without being overstuffed, making it ideal for browsing or luring in reluctant readers.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)