Wednesday’s Work-in-Progress: Encouraging the Next Generation

During my day at Book Expo America a few weeks back, I was intrigued to discover the new “Not For Parents” series from the folks at Lonely Planet. The publisher describes these books as designed “for budding travel lovers 8 and up,” adding that the series “opens up the world to a whole new generation of adventurers – with intriguing stories and fascinating facts about people, places, history and culture from around the world. From hideous histories to funky food, they cover all the cool stuff to know and are jam-packed with photos, illustrations and cartoons.” I considered myself lucky to snag a complimentary copy of the New York City book for my niece, who turns nine this summer.

I am even more delighted to have convinced said niece, Rachel, to write a brief review for this blog. (This was an activity that helped us pass the time before we went to the movies last weekend.) Please note that Rachel is already a practicing reviewer, with other posts to her credit over on her mom’s site.

I haven’t changed anything here–and all opinions are Rachel’s!

“This book is all about the history and the sightseeing of New York City. I think it is perfect for parents. The title of this book is NOT FOR PARENTS New York City Everything you ever wanted to know. I have learned many new facts about New York City. One of them is that on coney island there used to be a hotel that was shaped like an elephant! I am very excited to read this book about other places, they are coming out soon. I just do not like the insult to the parents on the title. This book is packed with amazing facts and illistratoins for your child, and I know that because I am a child.”

(Aunt Erika is moved to add: I understand Rachel’s point, in that the book is definitely not-for-kids only. I, too, learned a lot about New York when I read it. Books for other cities are, in fact, already available: First editions for London, Paris, and Rome were released last fall with the New York book.

Aunt Erika is also moved to shake her head yet again, because back in her day, spelling/punctuation/capitalization errors were corrected immediately and, yes, forcefully. But Aunt Erika is trying to adjust to the times–and prevent her perfectionism from infecting her niece.)

5 thoughts on “Wednesday’s Work-in-Progress: Encouraging the Next Generation

  1. Erwin K. Roberts says:

    Never too early to get the kids started. (If they’re even slightly inclined that way.)

    Back in the ’80’s I figeratively threw my daughter to the wolves on my cable TV show. Had her do intros, an interview or two, and opinion pieces. Now she reviews high school plays for a regional group of awards.

    She’s already made more money reviewing than I ever did. ;^!

  2. Mom/Grandma says:

    This is one of the most refreshing, charming, candid, informative book reviews that I have ever read! Thank you, Erika Dreifus and your niece Rachel!
    With all my love,
    A Parent and a Grandma

  3. Great review! And these books sound like something my kids would love.

  4. Karen says:

    Hi Erika and Rachel!

    Thank you so much for your great review of Lonely Planet’s “Not for Parents New York City.” You are absolutely right — there is cool stuff to learn for EVERYONE, kids and parents included. I myself learned about that elephant shaped hotel, and I also learned why New York City is called “The Big Apple.” And I learned about cool things in Paris, Rome, and London, too!

    I am so happy you liked the book, and are excited to read more. Thank you for sharing with us, and thank you, Aunt Erika, for passing it along!

  5. Erika Dreifus says:

    Thank you all so much for the comments. I agree, Erwin–it’s never too early to get them started! Jennifer, I’m eager to hear what your kids think, too. Karen, thank you for giving us the book in the first place! And Mom/Grandma–we love you!

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