About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts asking how we know what the world looks like, or if they are struggling with the fear of the unknown. Jean Fritz transforms a potentially dry history of 15th-century exploration into a witty, fast-paced narrative that captures the human transition from superstition to scientific discovery. It is an ideal choice for the student who loves trivia, maps, or tales of high-seas adventure but needs a relatable human hook to connect with historical facts. Through the stories of figures like Prince Henry the Navigator and Christopher Columbus, children see that progress often requires the bravery to leave the safety of the 'known' map. While the book focuses on European perspectives of the era, its emphasis on intellectual curiosity and the resilience required to face physical and mental barriers makes it a timeless study in human potential. It is perfectly suited for children aged 8 to 12 who are developing their own sense of independence and world-awareness.
