The Vikings by Elizabeth Janeway

52 Books in 52 Weeks - Week 2

I read The Vikings by Elizabeth Janeway this week as we are learning about the Vikings in our homeschool.  I had originally intended for this to be read by N, but since he has taken on an additional history class he is now further ahead and currently reading about Genghis Kan.

I found this book to be an interesting read and I learned quite a few things about the Vikings.  The book did not focus on the plundering and savagery that the Vikings were known for but  mainly on the family life of the Vikings.  The main character is Eric the Red and you get to experience first hand how he ended up in Greenland and then how his son, Leif, went on to "discover" and explore parts of North America.  It was quite fascinating to imagine the daily lives of these Vikings along with all the exciting adventures they experienced, as well.

This would make a great read aloud for most ages and a good silent reader for perhaps the 5th grade and up.

I'm still working on Books that Builds your Child's Character, A MidSummer Night's Dream and I've started Ahab's Wife.