The Secrets of Stonehenge

"The Secrets of Stonehenge" is a captivating children's book written by Mick Manning and illustrated by Brita Granström. The book invites readers to explore the history and mysteries of Stonehenge, taking them back 5,000 years to relive the story of this ancient monument. It covers various aspects of Stonehenge's construction and history, including the digging of the first henge using antler-horn picks, the transportation of bluestones by rafts down rivers, and the movement of massive sarsen stones weighing as much as 10 minibuses over a distance of 50 kilometers. Additionally, it tells the story of the Amesbury Archer, who was buried with his archer's wrist-guard and flint arrowheads.

First published in 2013, the book spans 32 pages and is fully illustrated, featuring engaging visuals that help young readers understand the concepts and history presented. It has received positive reviews, boasting a 4.8 out of 5 stars rating on Amazon based on 55 reviews. Designed to be both educational and entertaining, "The Secrets of Stonehenge" offers a "whirlwind tour" of information about Stonehenge and its significance in history.

Mick Manning, the author, has collaborated with illustrator Brita Granström on this and other children's books, effectively combining informative content with appealing visuals to make historical topics accessible to young readers. The book is available in paperback format and can be purchased through various retailers, including Amazon and the English Heritage Shop.

Duo: Mick Manning and Brita Granstrom

Together, Manning and Granström have produced a diverse array of books covering various topics, including history, science, and cultural stories. Their commitment to quality and creativity has earned them a special place in children's literature, making them a noteworthy duo for anyone interested in engaging and educational reading for young audiences.

Book Details:

Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
Format: paperback
Print length: 32 pages
Dimensions: 24.1 x 0.3 x 24.2 cm
Reading age: 7-10 years old
Publication date: 24 April 2014
ISBN: 978-1847805201

Read alongside these topics:

Stone Bronze and Iron Ages

How can "The Secrets of Stonehenge" help in teaching this KS2 History "Stone, Bronze & Iron Ages" lesson?

Using "The Secrets of Stonehenge" can significantly enhance the teaching of the KS2 History lesson on the Stone, Bronze, and Iron Ages by providing engaging content and interactive learning opportunities. Here’s how it can be effectively integrated into the curriculum:

Engaging Content

Visual Learning: The book is filled with images, questions, and captions that delve into the mysteries surrounding Stonehenge, making it visually appealing for young learners. This can help capture their interest and facilitate better retention of information about prehistoric Britain.
Inquisitive Approach: It poses thought-provoking questions such as why Stonehenge was built and how ancient people transported and erected the massive stones. This encourages critical thinking and discussion among students.

Connecting Historical Context

Linking Eras: The text provides insights into the lives of Stone Age ancestors and their monumental achievements, which are essential for understanding the broader timeline from the Stone Age through to the Iron Age. This aligns well with the KS2 objective of teaching changes in Britain from these periods.
Cultural Significance: By exploring Stonehenge as a significant prehistoric monument, students can learn about its role in ancient ceremonies and social structures, which helps them understand the cultural context of the time.

Interactive Activities

Design Projects: Teachers can encourage students to create their own stone structures inspired by Stonehenge, explaining their purpose and construction methods. This hands-on activity fosters creativity while reinforcing historical concepts.
Fact vs. Theory Exercise: Students can highlight facts and theories presented in the book using different colors. This exercise helps them develop skills in distinguishing between evidence-based information and speculative ideas, enhancing their analytical skills.

Curriculum Alignment

National Curriculum Objectives: The resource supports various history objectives, such as understanding significant aspects of ancient civilizations and developing a coherent narrative of Britain's history from early times to present day. It also aligns with objectives regarding the interpretation of historical evidence.
Cross-Curricular Links: The book can be used in conjunction with other subjects such as art (for design projects) and science (discussing materials and construction techniques), promoting a holistic learning experience.

In summary, "The Secrets of Stonehenge" serves as a valuable educational tool that not only enriches students' knowledge of prehistoric Britain but also engages them through interactive activities and critical thinking exercises.