About This Book
Reach for this book when your child asks a big 'how' question about a favorite treat or shows interest in how things are made. It is the perfect bridge for a child transitioning from picture books to independent reading, offering a sense of accomplishment through its chapter book format. The story takes readers from the rainforests of Central America to modern chocolate factories. It explores the fascinating history of the Maya and Aztecs, the journey across the ocean to Europe, and the scientific inventions that turned a bitter drink into a sweet snack. It satisfies natural curiosity while building a rich historical and scientific vocabulary in an accessible way.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book mentions the historical use of chocolate in religious rituals and the fact that it was once a luxury reserved for the wealthy. It takes a secular, educational approach to history. The book focuses on the history and process of chocolate making, but it does not delve into the modern labor issues associated with cacao farming, including concerns about fair wages and child labor. Parents may want to be prepared to discuss these issues if their child asks about where chocolate comes from or expresses concern about the people who grow cacao.
Ideal Reader
An inquisitive 7-year-old who loves 'how it's made' videos, enjoys baking with parents, or is beginning to show interest in history and different cultures. It is particularly good for a child who feels intimidated by long novels but wants to read a 'real' chapter book.
