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sducharme's review against another edition
4.0
Just the right amount of text and formal history provides students with the background information about Kubla Khan. Even better: descriptions of some of the astounding accomplishments and extraordinary excesses of Khan. Highly detailed illustrations are a bonus.
aoosterwyk's review against another edition
4.0
Reverse Mulan. It was an interesting story to add to my knowledge of that time period, which includes mention of Marco Polo’s visit and was the inspiration for Christopher Columbus’ travels.
alysona's review against another edition
5.0
I am not much of a nonfiction reader, so kid's nonfiction often suits me just fine. Kubla Khan is the perfect example. I might not read a lengthy book about the subject, but I loved this picture book biography. Engaging text, interesting topic and very atmospheric illustrations. Very good book for kids and adults.
abigailbat's review against another edition
4.0
This picture book biography depicts the life of Kubla Khan, Mongolian warrior who became emperor of almost all of Asia at one point. He had twelve thousand body guards and threw elaborate parties for many occasions. He also was the first ruler to attempt to educate all boys (regardless of family wealth). This is a great choice for kids who like learning about people and cultures.
An author's note is included, as well as a bibliography.
An author's note is included, as well as a bibliography.
emdoux's review against another edition
2.0
Generally, I like Krull's nonfiction, but this one didn't stand out much for me. Overall, it was okay.
beecheralyson's review against another edition
4.0
Krull always does a nice job with her subject matter. It was fascinating to read about Kubla Khan and his rule.
tashrow's review
4.0
Get a real sense of the great Khan who ruled over the largest empire in the world during the 13th century. This picture book biography invites readers to be amazed by what Kubla Khan managed to create and build. The emphasis is on the Khan’s achievements and the scope of his realm. There are so many little facts shared that are fascinating and engaging. They all demonstrate the largeness of his life and his achievements, from his one hundred children to the three million workers who extended the Grand Canal. The feel of the book is rich and dramatic as well, thanks to the illustrations by Byrd. Filled with small details, the illustrations and words work together to really bring this legendary leader to life. While a boon for report writers, this is also a biography that reads aloud very well thanks to the engaging style.
Krull excels at making famous people from history more human. With Kubla Khan, she humanizes him by sharing his youth in Mongolia. Yet Krull allows Kubla Khan to remain larger than life, his power and success is so large that it would be wrong to minimize what he managed to accomplish. Krull also emphasizes the fact that the Khan was very open to different opinions and new ideas. His ability to remain open is what allowed him to become the leader he was.
Byrd’s illustrations change as the Khan changes. The youthful years in Mongolia have a freedom to the illustrations with racing horses, hunts, and smoky battlefields. As Kubla Khan becomes more powerful and rules China, the illustrations reflect the Khan’s own changes and adoption of the Chinese style. Beautifully depicted, the illustrations are detailed, rich and add to the deep texture of the book.
Highly recommended for all public library children’s nonfiction collections, this is a dazzling biography. Appropriate for ages 8-11.
Krull excels at making famous people from history more human. With Kubla Khan, she humanizes him by sharing his youth in Mongolia. Yet Krull allows Kubla Khan to remain larger than life, his power and success is so large that it would be wrong to minimize what he managed to accomplish. Krull also emphasizes the fact that the Khan was very open to different opinions and new ideas. His ability to remain open is what allowed him to become the leader he was.
Byrd’s illustrations change as the Khan changes. The youthful years in Mongolia have a freedom to the illustrations with racing horses, hunts, and smoky battlefields. As Kubla Khan becomes more powerful and rules China, the illustrations reflect the Khan’s own changes and adoption of the Chinese style. Beautifully depicted, the illustrations are detailed, rich and add to the deep texture of the book.
Highly recommended for all public library children’s nonfiction collections, this is a dazzling biography. Appropriate for ages 8-11.
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