Writing: A Fact and Fun Book

A hands-on activity book provides aspiring young writers with new ways to ply their craft, discussing handwriting analysis, the origins of the alphabet, and how books are produced and shows kids how to make paper, chalk, and quill pens. Original.

Grade 4-6-- An intriguing, well-organized survey of the written word--from how a fax machine works to handwriting analysis to graffiti, with accompanying projects to extend hands-on understanding. Although "authorship" is a subject heading provided in the CIP data, actually only a small section is devoted to the craft of writing. Rather, the focus is on the mechanics, such as pens, pencils, paper, typewriters, computers, plus ancient and pictorial forms. The history of the written word and of books and printing, the role of libraries, and such issues as censorship and literacy are also mentioned. Handsomely designed, with lively pencil illustrations and much browsing appeal, this book could fuel the interest of readers not previously attracted to the subject. It is a good choice for anyone needing light, accessible background material to complement manuals such as Bauer's excellent guide to the craft of writing, What's Your Story? (Clarion, 1992). --Susan H. Patron, Los Angeles Public Library
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.