China: Land of Dragons and Emperors by Adeline Yen Mah

Release Date: June 9, 2009
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Age Group: Middle Grade/Young Adult
Pages: 256
From: publisher
Interest: n/a

The history of China spans thousands of years. Journey through China in this fascinating and absorbing book: discover the land of dragons and emperors, and learn about the significance of its ancient dynasties. Countless tools and materials that people have used every day for centuries—paper, gunpowder, cast iron, matches, and silk, to name just a few—were first made in China. Chinese society has progressed through major changes, but lucky numbers, festivals, beliefs about colors, the practic of footbinding, the building of the Great Wall, and the larger-than-life people of China are all integral parts of this ancient civilization and still have an impact on life today.

Fantastically depicted history of China, informative and enjoyable without really feeling like you were in a classroom. I’m not really sure how to go about reviewing this novel, since I don’t usually review nonfiction. I can’t judge characters or plot... since there aren’t any.

I’m not usually a nonfiction fan, but I actually enjoyed reading this one. It didn’t take me too long and it was actually interesting. The novel breaks down the book by Dynastys and explains what happened during that period of time. It also includes interesting tidbits, such as the Chinese Moon Festival or the invention of block printing.

Overall an interesting look into the history of China. I was very surprised by how much I didn’t know.