If You Were Me and Lived in...Germany: A Child's Introduction to Culture Around the World by Carole P. Roman

If You Were Me and Lived in...Germany: A Child's Introduction to Culture Around the World by Carole P. Roman,  illustrated by Kelsea Wienrenga is the newest book in Roman's illustrated culture series. This edition on Germany is especially of interest as my teenager is in her fourth year of German Language in school. The art contained in this newest book about Germany is a combination of mixed media- colorful cartoons superimposed with beautiful, full color, picturesque photography.  Without a doubt,  each book in the "A Child's Introduction to Cultures Around The World" series offers the reader new surprises each time.



When reading about Germany, the photograph of the castle on the hill in Fussen jumps out at the reader, against the backdrop against a cloudy  blue sky and mountains  in the distance.   Other authentic  details and textures add appeal and beauty to the simplistic cartoon scenes. The back contains a glossary of German words.

 The cartoon tour guides will certainly capture the attention of all young readers as well as parents and educators. I believe the "Carlesque" styled mixed media illustrations with the simple line cartoons in her   books are  an unexpected treat.  Mixed media illustrations are very popular and appealing for young readers as evidenced by the popularity of Eric Carle's kids' books.  By combining geography with mixed media- I believe that Roman will generate even greater interest and attention for her educational series. This sets her books apart from cartoon only illustrations.

The consistency of these geography books makes this series perfect for the school setting. An educator can count on the fact that students will be introduced to the basics. There is enough detail to make this series appropriate for middle school and even high school students as well.


  It would be great to see this series used as part of a  school geography or social studies curriculum.  It is clear that each book, though simple in design, presents a wealth of information and research.   This book as well as the other books in the series is available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. As a blogger I received this books for the purpose of writing this review.