(3) 4-6 Illustrated by John O'Brien. This intriguing book reveals the often bizarre stories behind the accidental invention or naming of many of today's successful products, including ice-cream cones, aspirin, and doughnut holes. Comical ink-and-watercolor illustrations capitalize on the quirkiness of the theme. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: The Horn Book, Inc.

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Yayo. Around the world and over thousands of years, animals have occasionally proven to be surprising and crucial participants in the political arena. Fifteen short tales showcase the roles that cats, dogs, and other four-legged creatures have played in shaping history across five continents. Textured acrylic on canvas drawings accompany the sometimes humorous, sometimes serious anecdotes. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Cindy Lombardo

(4) 4-6 After detailed accounts of pre-Lewis and Clark expeditions, Jones reports on explorers in four more periods of discovery through the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. There's a wealth of fascinating history, however, there are too many dates and explanations; places are not always clearly marked on maps; and the similarity of the hardships becomes repetitive. Well-captioned period illustrations and endnotes are included. Timeline. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Margaret A. Bush | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2005

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by John O'Brien. "Our entire culture is based on [food]," writes Jones; her brief but engaging tidbits about the history of food-related words and phrases prove her claim with panache. Chapters focusing on foods named after people and places, food-related terms and sayings, and words with etymologies rooted in food are just a few of the topics addressed. Pen-and-ink illustrations complement the text's humorous tone. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Jackie C. Horne

(2) 4-6 Illustrated with vintage photos, the book includes vignettes describing discoveries, friendships, and rivalries, all related in a lively narrative that could have originated around a sourdough's campfire. Jones presents an intriguing picture of a remote event, its place in history, the hardships and successes it encompassed, and the people who are remembered for their part in making it happen. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Elizabeth S. Watson | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 1999