This Orca Timeline book chronicles humans’ pursuit of fun and entertainment through time, from various cultures and countries, from ancient civilizations to the present. Chapters focus on aspects of games, puzzles, toys, music, the arts, sports, celebrations, festivals, the impact of technology, and leisure time in general. For each, the author describes origins and evolution over time and provides specific examples. Instructions are given on how to play certain games. Explanations of why some games and activities have stood the test of time are included. Traditional games, toys, and activities from various cultures and countries around the world are highlighted. Traditional Indigenous games, music, powwows, and regalia are explained. The author concludes with projections of what humans might pursue for fun in the future. Timelines detail the changes over time. Side bars and text boxes contain interesting anecdotes and additional facts. Captions accompanying colour photos and illustrations complement the text.

Other End Matter: Glossary, Resources (print and online), Acknowledgements
Images: Colour photographs, Colour illustrations, b&w illustrations
Bibliography: No
Index: Yes

Source: Books BC - BC Books for Schools

MARIA BIRMINGHAM is a longstanding contributor to OWL and Chickadee magazines, and the award-winning author of several books for young people, including Acting Wild, Biometrics, and A Beginner's Guide to Immortality: From Alchemy to Avatars. Maria lives in Brampton, Ontario.

 

Maria Birmingham's profile page

KATY DOCKRILL is an honors graduate from Ontario College of Art and Design. Her fresh brush-and-ink illustrations have attracted a wide range of clients, and she has won a number of awards for her editorial work. She has illustrated A Voice for the Spirit Bears by Carmen Oliver, among other titles, as well as many covers for children's novels. Katy lives with her family in Toronto, where she loves swimming, gardening and taking walks with her daughter.

 

Katy Dockrill's profile page

• Short-listed, Hackmatack Children’s Choice Book Award

“…Another wonderfully presented nonfiction book…Full of color photographs [and] playful expressionistic illustrations…Older readers will enjoy utilizing this book for their own amusement or for research.”

Children's Literature Comprehensive Database (CLCD)

“Interesting and educational, and, like the variety of fun activities mentioned in the book, there is something here for everyone...A most enjoyable read! Highly Recommended.”

CM: Canadian Review of Materials

“There's fun to be had in picking up this book and finding what sparks your interest.”

Sal's Fiction Addiction

“A timely reminder of how important fun is in our lives and the almost endless ways people throughout history have found to entertain themselves.”

Canadian Children's Book Centre (CCBC) Canadian Children’s Book News

“Lively illustrations, color and historical photos, and "It's a Fact” sidebars supplement the text nicely…Enjoy this fun book full of fascinating information.”

Booklist

“The strength of this title is its broad coverage which shows that fun is for people of all ages and is universal across cultures. Students will find this book informative and entertaining, too! Recommended.”

School Library Connection