Five Children and It (Scholastic Activities)

Name: Five Children and It (Scholastic Activities)
Rating: 7.7 (28538 reviews)
Author: Carl Sandburg
ISBN: 9781407145419

Language: English
Published in: 2014
Publisher: GARDNERS VI BOOKS AMS006
Pages: 207
ISBN: 9781407145419

Carl Sandburg's Abraham Lincoln, The War Years Volume 1 initiates the acclaimed four-volume chronicle of Abraham Lincoln's presidency during the American Civil War. This volume begins as Lincoln assumes office in 1861, facing the immediate challenges of a divided nation and the onset of conflict. Sandburg's extensive research provides a detailed account of Lincoln's leadership and the unfolding events of the war years.

This work is part of a larger six-volume biography that profoundly shaped public understanding of Lincoln and earned the complete "War Years" set the Pulitzer Prize for History in 1940. It offers a comprehensive look at a pivotal period in American history through the lens of one of its most significant figures.

Subjects

Original edition details

Abraham Lincoln, the War Years Volume 1 Only (of 4 Vol Set) One I Originally published in 1939

Original language

English

Original publisher Harcourt, Brace & Company

Other editions (913)

Psammy sorgt für Abenteuer

1996 • Dressler

German

Five Children and It Annotated

2021 • Independently Published

English

Five Children and It (Apple Classics)

1988 • Scholastic Paperbacks

English

Five Children and It

2013 • Penguin Publishing Group

English

Five Children and It Book and Charm

2004 • HarperCollins

English

7.7 / 10 (28K ratings)

Reviews summary

Positives

Reviews for E. Nesbit's Five Children and It highlight its enduring charm and imaginative premise. Readers praise the book's successful world-building and the authentic, age-appropriate relationships among the siblings, finding their emotions relatable. Nesbit's writing style is frequently lauded for striking a perfect balance between communicating gentle morals and maintaining a fun, engaging tone, avoiding condescension or overly ornate language. Many found the adventures entertaining and genuinely humorous, with the children's naivety often leading to comical situations. The book is considered a foundational work in children's fantasy, influencing later authors, and is appreciated for its witty dialogue and vivid portrayal of Edwardian England. It is described as a quick, enjoyable read that offers valuable lessons without being preachy.

Negatives

Despite its positive attributes, several reviewers noted significant drawbacks, primarily concerning dated content. The book contains instances of racism and stereotypes, particularly in chapters depicting certain cultural groups, which some readers found jarring and uncomfortable, even when considering the 1902 publication date. Critics also pointed out structural weaknesses, describing the narrative as a series of loosely connected short stories with an unsatisfying or weak ending. Some found the plot repetitive, the children occasionally annoying or insufferable, and the magical creature, the Psammead, as obnoxious or inconsistent in its powers. Other criticisms include a perceived lack of character development, excessive preaching in some parts, and instances of sexism that felt unnecessary even for the period.

Conclusion

Ultimately, Five Children and It is viewed as a significant children's classic that, while showing its age in certain respects, still offers considerable enjoyment. It is highly recommended for readers who appreciate Edwardian literature, classic children's novels, or those intrigued by whimsical stories about wishes gone awry. It is particularly suitable for children between second and fifth grade, as well as adults who enjoy reading aloud or revisiting nostalgic favorites. However, potential readers should be aware of the dated social attitudes and be prepared to approach them with historical context, perhaps using them as opportunities for discussion. For those new to E. Nesbit, some suggest exploring her other works if the episodic nature or dated elements of this particular title are a concern.

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