Wyatt, V. (2009) How to Build Your Own Country. Tonawanda, NY: Kids Can Press
Review:
Have you ever wanted to have your own country? Thinking of creating your own nation but aren’t sure how to get started? Then read How to Build Your Own Country! Step by step instructions show you how to not only choose you flag, currency, and motto – but also how to decide what kind of government you will have and how you will pay for everything. It’s the must have guide for anyone looking to carve their own niche in the world.
This was one of the funniest and clever non-fiction books I’ve read all semester. It starts with a common game among tweens – creating one’s own country or world – and uses that to explain basic concepts about diplomacy and government. The first few bits of instruction touch on the kinds of things tweens usually focus on when world-building: name, language, flags, money, etc. The rest of the book however, explains concepts like oligarchies or reviews some of the basics of holding elections, and it’s all done in an easy to understand and tongue-in-cheek manner that is sure to keep tweens as entertained as they learn.
Best for ages 6-11
Series website: http://www.kidscanpress.com/Canada/CitizenKid-C5065.aspx?section=5&series=2
