If You Were Me and Lived in ... Russia - Carole P. Roman

Summary: Exploring the world has never easier—or more fun!—than with Carole P. Roman’s award-winning If You Were Me and Lived In… children’s series. Continuing its globetrotting tradition, If You Were Me and Lived in…Russia explores the magic and wonder of this captivating country. As children ages three to eight take a leisurely stroll around Russia, they will come across some of the country’s most recognizable sites, including the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the Red Square. Learn about Russia’s yummy delicacies, like borscht and caviar, before playing popular Russian games like chess and “fipe”—a game children may know better as “tag”! Brimming with these and other fascinating facts, If You Were Me and Lived in…Russia is the perfect way to both entertain and educate your children about the great big world that exists outside their windows. From Russia’s festive New Year’s celebrations to popular Russian names, this charming addition to the If You Were Me and Lived in… family explains everything there is to know about one of the world’s most historic destinations. Carole P. Roman is the award-winning author of the If You Were Me and Lived in… series, which won the Pinnacle Award for Best in Children’s Nonfiction in 2012. She collaborated on this installment in the series with her five-year-old grandson, Alexander. Roman also writes the Captain No Beard series, the first of which was named a Kirkus Best of 2012, received a Star of Remarkable Merit, and won the Pinnacle Award in 2012.  (Summary and image from goodreads.com.  I was provided a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.)

My Review:  I have a confession.  I'm a nerd.  (I know!  Golly, I could hear your gasps of shock from here!) I loved my major - Political Science - and while I've had to step back for my family's sanity, it still holds a dear place in my heart.  Unfortunately, that spills over into all areas.  Especially when I hear about Russia - I immediately go to revolution, the USSR, post-Soviet political intrigue and scandal.  Fear of the KGB. Cold.  I can't help it!  It's where my mind runs!

This was such a fun book to read with my kids, especially after the Olympics this year.  They loved watching them, and some Russian history was discussed (because, I'm a nerd), but what an excellent resource to show the culture and the beauty of Russia!  I overlooked that in the discussions I had with my kids, and this is an excellent jumping off point to bring that incredible knowledge to my kids.

My Rating: Four Stars