Kubla Khan: The Emperor of Everything

Picture strkps Rd not to standard of classic illustrated.

My kids liked this book. The author did a good job introducing a historical figure without getting too much into the cruel side of things.

World history is filled with Asian emperors who controlled vast realms but very few of them resonate in the West. How much does the average educated American know about Babur or Tamerlane? With the exception of Kubla Khan, I doubt most people could name a single Chinese Emperor. Yet Kubla Khan reaches out through the centuries because of his relationship with Marco Polo. Without the Venetian traveller, he would join the ranks of other obscure Mongolians.Kathleen Krull is a solid writer and she does a very good job of touching on the highlites of Kubla Khan's long reign. The scope of his Empire and the luxory of his Court stand in wonderful contrast to the European monarchs of the time. In our current century where we are now experiencing the rise of Asia, it is important for children to see that the West was not always the dominate region of the World. My only problem with this book is the eccentric illustration style of Robert Byrd. There is a psychodelic aspect to his illustrations that is not quite fitting in a children's history book. Nevertheless, this is a good book and I would recommend it.

I enjoy reading books about the past, but most of what I've read in both children's and adult books has focused on the American experience. So I was thrilled to hear about this book. Kubla Khan was a man of contradictions. A just ruler under most conditions, his armies destroyed many villages, massacring any who refused to become part of Khan's growing empire. It was interesting to read about Kubla's mother who was determined to have her children make a mark in the world and did everything in her power to provide them with a chance to do so.Clearly a man of great intelligence and leadership ability, Khan left a mark that can still be seen in Asia today. One thing I found especially fascinating was how involved in his life, his mother, and second wife were. In a time where women were seen as inferior and incompetent, these women had a big impact on Khan's life, personal and professional. The book is too long for a short read-a-loud, but there is plenty of detail for discussion.The illustrations are very detailed as well as colorful and bright. The illustrations compliment the text beautifully. I highly recommend this book for those who enjoy reading about the world.

We LOVED the illustrations in this book and really enjoyed learning more about the Mongol Empire. Great for my 2nd and 3rd grader!

should have looked into the book more, was for a young person, child,

Beautiful book, well written and most interesting for the children and myself. loved the illustrations!

Nice book for smaller children.