Rotten Rulers. Terry Deary

After reading "Smashing Saxons" that I brought back from London, my son (a reluctant reader) begged to begin another one. He blew threw this one and enjoyed it -- it is a bit "gross" but in a funny, British humour sort of way. We just started on a new set of 20 of the Horrible Histories. Quick, light and enjoyable reading for pre-teen boys and a bit younger.

This is a terrific series for everyone! The short stories, wacky quizzes, and humorous lists will capture children's attention and before they know it, they've finished a section and want to know more. This particular book mentions rulers from many different eras and continents. The series is a terrific launching point for introducing a time in history or supplementing history curriculum with an "out-of-the-box" look at a time period or group. The Horrible History series will make history memorable and will get your kids asking lots of questions.

This series of books is wonderful. If you want to encourage kids to read and to love history these books will do just that. My 10 year old grandson started reading them a few years ago and is now a real history buff. The books have catchy titles are written in a humerous way so that they keep the child's attention. I highly recommend these books as a teacher, mother and grandmother!