Publication Sept. 1, 2022
I was a sunflower fan long before it became an international symbol of not just peace but hope and resistance against foreign invasion. As such, the cover grabbed my attention immediately. As a retired teacher, I wondered how it could be used for learning, particularly as I imagine many children, the target audience, had never heard of the country before recent (2022) events. While it certainly isn't a comprehensive tome on the country's culture and place in history, it does provide a solid starting point as well as some hands-on projects.My first reaction, probably naturally, was to delight in the colorful photos spaced throughout the book. For instance, rather than simple drawings of, say, a nightingale, the national bird of Ukraine, photos were used. No surprise, the sunflower got its own section, one that included instructions on planting them. They share a bit of culture here and there and one of them was a Ukrainian poem to be recited as you water your flowers.
History-wise, they provide a very basic overview and timeline. I should note that the book seems more directed at adults, adults who can read and discuss the information within with children. It provides a taking off place, in other words. Known as "the breadbasket of the world", Ukraine certainly is worthy of discussion. A handy timeline is provided, by the way. Given recent events, it provides a handy reminder that Ukraine's geographical location has made it something of a volatile barrier between the west and east at times. Again, not presented politically but in a conversational tone as a starting place for discussion. As such, this book would be an excellent starting point for adults wanting to know more about Ukraine.
Thanks #NetGalley and #Capstone - #CapstoneEditions for providing this quick, easy-to-read overview of Ukraine, it's culture, history, and importance to the world. Now I'm going to go practice those Ukrainian phrases.
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