Seven Great Explorations

Jo-Anne Mary Benson’s quarterly column in Ottawa Parent magazine
focuses on books for children and parents.

Seven individuals whose accomplishments have made history are celebrated
in the latest addition to this miniature pop-up series. Combining
concise text with interesting presentation, the book takes readers on an
absorbing voyage, beginning with Pytheas’s six-year odyssey (c. 310
B.C.) to the Arctic Circle, and ending with the memorable 1969 Apollo II
space mission. In addition to informing readers about the obvious
achievements of explorers such as Columbus, Peary, and Magellan, the
book highlights some of their lesser-known contributions (e.g., Captain
James Cook tested a chronometer that developed the present longitudes of
the earth). Seven Great Explorations is sure to inspire many readers to
seek out additional material on their favorite explorers. Recommended.