Book Review: Around the World in 80 Ways: The Fabulous Inventions that Get Us From Here to There by DK, Katy Halford

Around the World in 80 Ways: The Fabulous Inventions that Get Us From Here to There from DK, with illustrations by Katy Halford is a children's non fiction book about different modes of transportation. Travel around the world by yacht, tram, train, unicycle, jetpack, camel... everything you can imagine! Each scene depicts various exciting things that go and provides a wealth of interesting information. The fun and charming illustrations will prompt discussion and the incredible facts on every page will amaze readers.

Around the World in 80 Ways: The Fabulous Inventions that Get Us From Here to There is a well illustrated book, using realistic but colorful depictions of everything from the dugout boats and horses that were among the first modes of travel people used, to the more unusual items like kiteboards and unicycles. Each invention or animal used for transportation has a brief explanation, offering some history of tidbit about comfort using that type of travel. Some items, like the car, hot air balloon, and camel have much more information than the rest. I can think of many young readers from my past elementary school library position that would have adored this book, and think it will be a favorite for some. 

Book Review: Want to Know. The Bicycle by Lucas Arnoldussen & Marc Janssen

Want to Know. The Bicycle by Lucas Arnoldussen & Marc Janssen is a children's non fiction book that is really fit for all ages. Do you want to know all about the bicycle? What did the first bike look like? How many kinds of bikes are there? How can you chose the best bike for you? What kinds of cycling sports are there? Who are the most famous racing cyclists? Beyond the basic information about bicycles and those that ride them are rhymes, repair information, a mini quiz, a fold out page and more.

Want to Know. The Bicycle is an interesting and informative picturebook. While aimed at young readers, and worded so that everyone can understand the text, I found that I learned a few things as well. The illustrations and information are paired well, and I think it will capture and hold the interest of a wide range of readers. The fold out page of the bike shop was interesting, and I liked the information on the variety of bikes and some of the most famous bike riders- even the less than positive things about them. I think this is an all around well done non fiction picturebook that will appeal and capture the imagination and interest of a wide range of readers.