Not So Very Long Ago: Life in a Small Country Village

With appealing detail in its text and paintings, this attractive picture book recreates daily life in a remote European village in the 19th century. Through the eyes of Anton the peddler, his wife and their children, named John and Laura, the reader views a busy society, learning about various trades (weaver, tailor, potter, glazier, apothecary, etc.). Illustrations elucidate the text with a wealth of images and characters. Warm tones infuse the artwork with a convivial atmosphere, which belies the undisputed hardships of this time and place. Life seems idyllic, all clog dancing and fairs, and the only mention of discomfort regards the dancing bear. Despite the lack of verisimilitude, this suggestive work should invite discussion through its personalization of history. Ages 7-up. (Feb.)