(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Neil Packer. In prose at once conversational and elegant, Frankopan tells the history of humanity through that of the silk roads, focusing on the religious, cultural, intellectual, and confrontational history of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Spanning from ancient times to the present, this ambitious volume (based on Frankopan's adult book) will satisfy history buffs and casual readers alike. Packer's gorgeous art ranges in style from classical to modern as the narrative progresses.

Reviewer: Kristy Pasquariello

(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Neil Packer. In this companion volume to Cross's retelling of The Odyssey, the language is clear and easy to read, if a little over-adorned with exclamation marks. A handsome book design, eye-catching illustrations, and a clean typeface add to the clarity and accessibility. Although any sense of Homer's original poetry is lost, this may be a good choice for uninitiated readers.

Reviewer: Martha V. Parravano

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Neil Packer. This is a quirky history of the codex (with a brief glimpse at ebooks), narrated in an alternately whimsical and lyrical style by the personified Book. Packer's illustrations, many of which resemble woodcuts, punctuate the brief narratives, as do quotes about the joys of books, reading, and libraries, from Lao Tzu to Bill Gates. More a bibliophile's love letter than a reference work.

Reviewer: Norah Piehl

(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Neil Packer. Homer's epic adventure tale gets another retelling. The language lacks some of the poetry of the original but is clear and easy to read. The mostly attractive illustrations tradeoff between rich colors and stark black and white; some are reminiscent of the black figure illustrations on ancient Attic pottery, while others are comprised of odd-looking figures with strange proportions.

Reviewer: Antonio Trujillo