Eyewitness: Renaissance
DK Eyewitness Books Series
on Goodreads (101)
What’s inside...
Provides background information on major works of Renaissance art, the artists who produced them, and the times in which they were created.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some of the most interesting inventions or artworks from the Renaissance that you learned about in this book?
How do you think the ideas and achievements of the Renaissance period influence our world today?
Can you imagine what it might have been like to live during the Renaissance? What would you have wanted to be—an artist, scientist, or maybe a philosopher?
Why do you think it was important for people in the Renaissance to study and explore so many different areas, like art, science, and literature?
How do you think the changes and developments during the Renaissance helped shape the modern world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about the connections between the Renaissance and the present day. Ask them how they might use the ideas from the era in their own life.
Discuss the biographies of key figures from the Renaissance featured in the book. Ask your child which person they found most inspiring and why.
Create a fun, interactive activity by asking your child to draw or create something inspired by the art and inventions of the Renaissance.
Use the book’s illustrations and descriptions to help visualize the period and make the historical context more engaging and relatable for your child.
Encourage your child to ask their own questions about the Renaissance and look for answers together, fostering a sense of curiosity and lifelong learning.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of curiosity and learning
Explanation: Eyewitness: Renaissance by Alison Cole explores the transformative period of the Renaissance, showing how a thirst for knowledge and innovation led to important advancements in art, science, and culture.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be curious about the world around them and pursue knowledge in various fields, fostering a lifelong love of learning.
Example Lesson: The importance of creativity
Explanation: The book highlights how Renaissance figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo pushed the boundaries of art and creativity, resulting in timeless works that continue to inspire.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to express themselves through art, writing, or any creative endeavor, emphasizing that creativity can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
Example Lesson: Resilience through challenges
Explanation: Eyewitness: Renaissance discusses the obstacles faced by many thinkers and artists of the time, who often challenged established norms and faced societal resistance.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges, encouraging them to be steadfast in their goals.
Example Lesson: Impact of cultural exchange
Explanation: The book addresses how the Renaissance was a period of significant cultural exchange that enriched societies by sharing knowledge and ideas across Europe.
Real-World Application: Instills an appreciation for diverse cultures and viewpoints, promoting openness and the benefits of learning from others.