A History of Underwear with Professor Chicken
What’s inside...
Packed with information, hilariously but accurately (well...except for the chickens) illustrated, Hannah Holt and Korwin Briggs' A History of Underwear with Professor Chicken is sure to wedge its way into the annals of history-based picture books. From Paleolithic loincloths to Henry VIII's wives wearing underwear on their heads to Mary Walker, a civil war surgeon who was arrested for wearing men's underwear and clothing to better work on patients, this book surveys the vast and fascinating history of our most private clothing. Modeled by chickens, we trace the history of underwear from the very first discovery- a paleolithic nomad whose body was found completely preserved in ice. From there, we look across time and culture in this completely accessible, new take on boring old nonfiction picture books.
Age
5-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Professor Chicken
Discussion points
Why do you think underwear styles have changed over time?
What was the most surprising thing you learned about underwear history from Professor Chicken?
How do different cultures view and use underwear differently?
Can you think of any reasons why people in the past wore the types of underwear that they did?
If you could design your own historical underwear, what would it look like and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book’s funniest or most interesting moments to make your child feel more comfortable in expressing their opinions.
Encourage your child to think about the reasons behind historical changes in fashion, including underwear, to deepen their understanding of cultural shifts.
Connect the discussion to present-day clothing choices and ask your child how they think our clothes might change in the future.
Use visual aids from the book or from additional resources to help your child visualize historical underwear styles discussed in the book.
Praise all attempts at answering questions, fostering a positive environment where your child feels confident in expressing their thoughts and ideas.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Historical perspective
Explanation: Through the whimsical character of Professor Chicken, children learn about the evolution of underwear across different civilizations and times.
Real-World Application: This historical insight can help children understand that all aspects of human culture, including clothing, have histories that reflect changes in society and technology.
Example Lesson: Cultural awareness
Explanation: The book showcases underwear styles from various cultures, emphasizing the diversity in human traditions and practices.
Real-World Application: Children can better appreciate and respect cultural differences, fostering a more inclusive mindset.
Example Lesson: Importance of hygiene
Explanation: Through engaging storytelling, the narrative highlights how cleanliness standards have influenced underwear design.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to practice good hygiene habits, understanding their role in health and comfort.
Example Lesson: Innovation and creativity
Explanation: Professor Chicken explains how changes in materials and designs improved underwear over time, showing human ingenuity.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to think creatively and value innovation as they see how creative solutions can improve everyday life.
Example Lesson: Understanding growth and change
Explanation: The book helps children see that growth and change are natural parts of life, mirrored through the evolving designs of underwear.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding to their own lives, seeing growth as a positive and exciting aspect of maturing.