Incredible journeys: discovery, adventure, danger, endurance by Levison Wood
Illus: by Sam Brewster. Wren and Rook, 2019. ISBN: 9781526360434.
(Age: 8-14) Recommended. Themes: World exploration, World explorers
- Alexander the Great, Vikings, Christopher Columbus, Magellan and
Drake, Captain James Cook, The Silk Road, Amelia Earhart. This book
is a shining light on the adventurous spirit of those who have
explored the world and opened the way for trade, adventure and
travel to those who have followed their path or been inspired by
their fortitude. Levison Wood is himself an explorer and adventurer
of some repute, even though he is not yet 40 years old. With a
background in the British Parachute Regiment, he has also travelled
extensively in some of the world's most difficult terrains and
circumstances - traveling the length of the Nile and of the
Himalayas as an example. His curiosity, bravery and pursuit of
knowledge as he traverses the world makes him the perfect person to
inspire a new generation of explorers.
The book details the routes and experiences of many early explorers
whose exploits are well known. The list of these important people
includes Alexander the Great, Marco Polo, Christopher Columbus. He
also details other lesser known explorers whose pursuits are also
significant and includes the details of many women who were able to
defy the stereotypes of their generation and venture into obscure
territory. Their stories are not so well known, but they too were
breaking new ground and exploring new possibilities. Interspersed
with personal reflections of Wood's own journeys through the lands
and routes of the historically famous explorers are annotated maps
and also some general information about how to pursue 'exploring'
for younger readers.
Illustrations by Sam Brewster are naively detailed and the colour
palette is limited, but the overall impact is still appealing for
young readers.
Recommended for ages 8-14, and especially for those of an intrepid
nature or who are 'armchair' explorers.
Carolyn Hull