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If You Were Me and Lived in… historical series
If You Were Me and Lived in....the Mayan Empire
Join Carole P. Roman and travel through time to visit the most interesting civilizations throughout history in the first four books of her new series.
Learn what kind of food you might eat in Ancient Greece, the clothes you wore in 15th century Renaissance Italy, what your name could be in Viking Europe, and what children who lived during the Han Dynasty did for fun.
If You Were Me and Lived in...does for history what her other award-winning series did for culture.
So get on-board this time-travel machine and discover the world through the eyes of a young person just like you.
Learn what kind of food you might eat in Ancient Greece, the clothes you wore in 15th century Renaissance Italy, what your name could be in Viking Europe, and what children who lived during the Han Dynasty did for fun.
If You Were Me and Lived in...does for history what her other award-winning series did for culture.
So get on-board this time-travel machine and discover the world through the eyes of a young person just like you.
68 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 23, 2017
4 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
Carole P. Roman
69 books2,201 followersCarole P. Roman is the award-winning author of over fifty children's books. Whether it's pirates, princesses, or discovering the world around us, her books have enchanted educators, parents, and her diverse audience of children. She hosts a blog radio program called Indie Authors Roundtable and is one of the founders of the magazine, Indie Author's Monthly. She's been interviewed twice by Forbes Magazine. Carole has co-authored two self-help books. Navigating Indieworld: A Beginners Guide to Self-Publishing and Marketing with Julie A. Gerber, and Marketing Indieworld with both Julie A. Gerber and Angela Hausman. She published Mindfulness for Kids with J. Robin Albertson-Wren and a new joke book called The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids: 800+ Jokes!
She writes adult fiction under the name Brit Lunden and is currently helping to create an anthology with her mythical town of Bulwark, Georgia with a group of indie authors. She lives on Long Island near her children and grandchildren.
Her series includes:
Captain No Beard
If You Were Me and Lived in- Cultural
If You Were Me and Lived in- Historical
Nursery series
Oh Susannah- Early Reader and coloring book
Mindfulness for Kids with co-author J. Robin Albertson-Wren
The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids; 800 plus Jokes!
Navigating Indieworld- with co-author Julie A. Gerber
Marketing Indieworld- with co-authors Angela Hausman and Julie A. Gerber
Adult Fiction under the pen name Brit Lunden
Bulwark
The Knowing- A Bulwark Anthology
She writes adult fiction under the name Brit Lunden and is currently helping to create an anthology with her mythical town of Bulwark, Georgia with a group of indie authors. She lives on Long Island near her children and grandchildren.
Her series includes:
Captain No Beard
If You Were Me and Lived in- Cultural
If You Were Me and Lived in- Historical
Nursery series
Oh Susannah- Early Reader and coloring book
Mindfulness for Kids with co-author J. Robin Albertson-Wren
The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids; 800 plus Jokes!
Navigating Indieworld- with co-author Julie A. Gerber
Marketing Indieworld- with co-authors Angela Hausman and Julie A. Gerber
Adult Fiction under the pen name Brit Lunden
Bulwark
The Knowing- A Bulwark Anthology
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
August 7, 2017
If You Were Me and Lived in the Mayan Empire (If You Were Me and Lived) by Carole P. Roman is another terrific book in the series. I learn so much from these books and I know kids do too. These books belong in schools if they aren't now. I wish I had them in school when I was growing up. This books tells the reader about what the common names would be, what the people would where, eat, do for festivals, work, social status, and so much more. A lot of information is packed in a few pages with excellent illustrations to enhance the info. Very interesting! Kids will find it fascinating what it would have been like...head flattening, tattoos, ...Great book. This book was a gift and the review is voluntary. Thanks.
December 9, 2020
Have you ever wanted to know what it was like to live during the Mayan Empire - over 1500 years ago?
Then pick up this fabulous book!
You can learn all about this ancient culture - from their clothes to their foods to their habits and cities.
Each city had a temple for worship that attracted people to settle, creating centers of exchange and learningThe houses were made of mud, and families stuck together - living right next to each of each other.
And, what was crazy to me was all of the rules concerning life!
Employment was hereditary...If your parents were farmers, then you were destined tp be a farmer.One of my favorite things was learning about the beauty from back in the day!
Rich Mayans decorated their teeth with gemstones.They also thought being cross-eyed was beautiful and would wear jewelry everywhere - ears, nose, lips and more! Wild!
All in all, this was a fun introduction to a new culture. There were SO many facts in here that I never heard of - which was really neat.
This is one of my favorites of Roman's books!
With thanks to the author for a free copy in exchange for an honest review
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March 27, 2017
The Mayans prepared a calendar more accurate than the rest of the world.’
The multi-talented Carole P. Roman, whose `Captain No Beard' books continue to stay on top of the list of children's favorites, added another series of countries to explore, and now adds yet another series that enrich children's knowledge of other historical periods – to this date these include Colonial America, Middle Ages, Renaissance Italy, Ancient Greece, Ancient China and Elizabethan England, the American West, the Mali Empire, Viking Europe, and now the Mayan Empire! Carole not only has mastered the art of story telling and education but she also now opens doors of wonder about past times and periods that may just well be the introduction to history for the lucky children that are exposed to these well illustrated and knowledgeable books. This book about the MAYAN EMPIRE in the Yucatan Peninsula in southeastern Mexico is beautifully illustrated by Paula Tabor.
Carole steps further into history than most writers tread. Her decision to write about the Mayan Empire is timely, bringing her young readers (and their equally only tangentially informed parents) into the considerable riches of Mexican period of time from 1800 BC to the early 1500s when Mayan civilization spread form what we now know as Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador and was the only American society with a written history. She discusses what life was like during the peak of the Empire and follows with well-researched information about the famous events and leaders of the time. Coupling this with the unique pyramids, types of trade, the foods, clothes, weaving, tattoos, coming of age festivals, the various foods that were cultivated and hunted – all manner of facts woven into the tie-dye tapestry that Carole weaves so well. And at the end of the book Carole provides a glossary of important people of the time and words commonly used.
In other words, Carole makes leaning history fun and exciting and enhances children’s appreciation of the world of the past. And this book about the Mayans is one of her very finest yet. Excellent on every level.
The multi-talented Carole P. Roman, whose `Captain No Beard' books continue to stay on top of the list of children's favorites, added another series of countries to explore, and now adds yet another series that enrich children's knowledge of other historical periods – to this date these include Colonial America, Middle Ages, Renaissance Italy, Ancient Greece, Ancient China and Elizabethan England, the American West, the Mali Empire, Viking Europe, and now the Mayan Empire! Carole not only has mastered the art of story telling and education but she also now opens doors of wonder about past times and periods that may just well be the introduction to history for the lucky children that are exposed to these well illustrated and knowledgeable books. This book about the MAYAN EMPIRE in the Yucatan Peninsula in southeastern Mexico is beautifully illustrated by Paula Tabor.
Carole steps further into history than most writers tread. Her decision to write about the Mayan Empire is timely, bringing her young readers (and their equally only tangentially informed parents) into the considerable riches of Mexican period of time from 1800 BC to the early 1500s when Mayan civilization spread form what we now know as Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador and was the only American society with a written history. She discusses what life was like during the peak of the Empire and follows with well-researched information about the famous events and leaders of the time. Coupling this with the unique pyramids, types of trade, the foods, clothes, weaving, tattoos, coming of age festivals, the various foods that were cultivated and hunted – all manner of facts woven into the tie-dye tapestry that Carole weaves so well. And at the end of the book Carole provides a glossary of important people of the time and words commonly used.
In other words, Carole makes leaning history fun and exciting and enhances children’s appreciation of the world of the past. And this book about the Mayans is one of her very finest yet. Excellent on every level.
April 2, 2017
Carole P. Roman has won several awards because her books are attractive, wonderful to read, informative, highly educational, colorful, and very child-friendly. She has several series of books, each very successful, each praised. Each contains colorful drawings that capture and hold the interest of children. And each book is written in language kids will find interesting and the stories in each is fascinating. As I wrote in the past, “I do not know any other author of children’s books who has packed her books with so much need-to-know information in such a fascinating fashion as Roman does in her ‘If you were me and lived in…’ series.”
There are two groups in this series: in one she tells about a contemporary country, such as Germany, in which she gives a large amount of information about the country. She has already published twenty books in this series. In the other, she informs children about an ancient culture, such as ancient Greece or the Mayan empire. She also has other series of books, all delightful.
Children will not only learn much about other cultures and history from Carole P. Roman’s many books; the book will also stimulate the children to want to learn more; a desire that will help them today in school, improve their minds, and help them in later life. They will also learn to respect people from other countries and other times, a lesson that is unfortunately not learnt by many kids and grown-ups.
This 64-page book is about the ancient Mayan culture. Roman tells children, and adults too, about such things as the Yucatan Peninsula that was home to the Mayan civilization that goes back almost four thousand years, what the civilization was like about 1500 years ago, their written history, names they used for themselves and their cities, their jobs, their golden age, famous people, the kind of houses they lived in which lacked windows and their cities, the treatment of women, that their doors always faced east, what each family member did daily, what clothing they wore, foods they ate, religion, priests, jewelry, how parents placed boards on children’s heads to shape their heads, tattoos, decorating teeth with gemstones, the lack of a middle class, slaves, schooling, games, when a child was considered an adult, marriage, and much more, including the Mayan contributions to the world.
There are two groups in this series: in one she tells about a contemporary country, such as Germany, in which she gives a large amount of information about the country. She has already published twenty books in this series. In the other, she informs children about an ancient culture, such as ancient Greece or the Mayan empire. She also has other series of books, all delightful.
Children will not only learn much about other cultures and history from Carole P. Roman’s many books; the book will also stimulate the children to want to learn more; a desire that will help them today in school, improve their minds, and help them in later life. They will also learn to respect people from other countries and other times, a lesson that is unfortunately not learnt by many kids and grown-ups.
This 64-page book is about the ancient Mayan culture. Roman tells children, and adults too, about such things as the Yucatan Peninsula that was home to the Mayan civilization that goes back almost four thousand years, what the civilization was like about 1500 years ago, their written history, names they used for themselves and their cities, their jobs, their golden age, famous people, the kind of houses they lived in which lacked windows and their cities, the treatment of women, that their doors always faced east, what each family member did daily, what clothing they wore, foods they ate, religion, priests, jewelry, how parents placed boards on children’s heads to shape their heads, tattoos, decorating teeth with gemstones, the lack of a middle class, slaves, schooling, games, when a child was considered an adult, marriage, and much more, including the Mayan contributions to the world.
October 23, 2017
This new series of children's books, An Introduction to Civilizations Throughout Time, is very special. They are geared toward elementary students and perhaps on into the early middle school grades. The Mayan Empire incorporates factual information throughout the story while immersing the reader as the "You" in the story. I found it intriguing to peek into this ancient people's civilization that so little is taught about in schools.
The Mayans were quite advanced mathematically. Their worship was of many gods with one being more important. The Mayan civilization dates back to 1800 BC. That is truly ancient. They left a written record of their civilization.
The reader can place himself right at the center going through what a day in the life of a child during this period was like. I found the daily life and facts surrounding life as a Mayan to be very interesting and well-written by Ms. Roman in a manner easy to understand yet not too simplistic.
The illustrations are very well done and indicative of peoples currently living in the area of the ancient Mayans. The geographic location of the Mayan Empire was that of the Yucatan Peninsular and included today's Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Belize.
I especially like the sections in the back of the book. There is a section with pictures (stylized drawings that look like carvings from archaeological discoveries) and short biographies of important people during the period, Mayan Contributions to the World, and a wonderful glossary.
This is an excellent resource for the home or classroom library. More sturdily bound editions would be wonderful in children's school libraries and the children's section of public libraries.
GIVEAWAY - 5 winners - Begins October 23 & Ends November 14 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT - Open to USA addresses only. http://chatwithvera.blogspot.com/2017...
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the author to facilitate this review of my own opinions. I was not compensated nor obligated to give a positive review.
The Mayans were quite advanced mathematically. Their worship was of many gods with one being more important. The Mayan civilization dates back to 1800 BC. That is truly ancient. They left a written record of their civilization.
The reader can place himself right at the center going through what a day in the life of a child during this period was like. I found the daily life and facts surrounding life as a Mayan to be very interesting and well-written by Ms. Roman in a manner easy to understand yet not too simplistic.
The illustrations are very well done and indicative of peoples currently living in the area of the ancient Mayans. The geographic location of the Mayan Empire was that of the Yucatan Peninsular and included today's Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Belize.
I especially like the sections in the back of the book. There is a section with pictures (stylized drawings that look like carvings from archaeological discoveries) and short biographies of important people during the period, Mayan Contributions to the World, and a wonderful glossary.
This is an excellent resource for the home or classroom library. More sturdily bound editions would be wonderful in children's school libraries and the children's section of public libraries.
GIVEAWAY - 5 winners - Begins October 23 & Ends November 14 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT - Open to USA addresses only. http://chatwithvera.blogspot.com/2017...
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the author to facilitate this review of my own opinions. I was not compensated nor obligated to give a positive review.
July 24, 2017
http://kachildrensbookreviews.blogspo...
We received this book to give an honest review.
I have said it before and I will say it again these books about the different cultures and time periods are amazing.
With this take on the Mayan Empire as a parent I learned something new for example that if there were no boys in the family the women were left landless, because they could not inherit land even if they lived on it. Another thing that was very interesting was the fact that the parents used wooden boards to shape their infant's heads to make them elongated and had them go crossed eyed! There was a reason for this which you need to find in the book.
K thought it was interesting that they could make a calendar and look at the stars to map things out.
Learning about new cultures is always fun because you get to learn new things along with more in depth detail and this book does that. Though it does it in a way that is fun and not just boring facts!
We received this book to give an honest review.
I have said it before and I will say it again these books about the different cultures and time periods are amazing.
With this take on the Mayan Empire as a parent I learned something new for example that if there were no boys in the family the women were left landless, because they could not inherit land even if they lived on it. Another thing that was very interesting was the fact that the parents used wooden boards to shape their infant's heads to make them elongated and had them go crossed eyed! There was a reason for this which you need to find in the book.
K thought it was interesting that they could make a calendar and look at the stars to map things out.
Learning about new cultures is always fun because you get to learn new things along with more in depth detail and this book does that. Though it does it in a way that is fun and not just boring facts!
August 30, 2017
Review to come soon :)
October 1, 2017
Another great story in the ...”If You Were Me...” series. This colourful entertaining book will engage young minds while educating them at the same time.
January 26, 2018
I’ve read several books in Carole’s series and enjoyed them very much. I’d say this is my favorite so far.
I’ve always had a fascination with the Mayan society. What you’ll read here is fascinating stuff. How did they live? What was their society like? How did they construct their pyramids? So many more questions and so many more answers abound.
Among their many contributions is the concept or zero. Of something being nothing. They mapped the skies with telescopes. They even performed brain surgery. This is just of few of their contributions. A funny things is, despite all of this, they never discovered the use of the wheel. I thought that was so odd. All that knowledge and they missed the wheel. Now I wonder how did they build their cities and pyramids.
Learn about famous Mayans and more with the wonderful glossary provided at the back of the book. I found it handy and fun to be able to correctly pronounce words and get a better grasp of what they meant. I was thrilled by the wealth of information gleaned from these pages.
Welcome to Carole’s Mayan Empire. Read about many amazing things and let your eyes wander over the colorful illustrations. Have fun and learn.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
I’ve always had a fascination with the Mayan society. What you’ll read here is fascinating stuff. How did they live? What was their society like? How did they construct their pyramids? So many more questions and so many more answers abound.
Among their many contributions is the concept or zero. Of something being nothing. They mapped the skies with telescopes. They even performed brain surgery. This is just of few of their contributions. A funny things is, despite all of this, they never discovered the use of the wheel. I thought that was so odd. All that knowledge and they missed the wheel. Now I wonder how did they build their cities and pyramids.
Learn about famous Mayans and more with the wonderful glossary provided at the back of the book. I found it handy and fun to be able to correctly pronounce words and get a better grasp of what they meant. I was thrilled by the wealth of information gleaned from these pages.
Welcome to Carole’s Mayan Empire. Read about many amazing things and let your eyes wander over the colorful illustrations. Have fun and learn.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
September 10, 2017
I have loved reviewing these books for Roman! I enjoy learning about new places myself. This one however, I liked to learn about it, but am so thankful I didn't live during this time.
These are such fun books for kids. They explore different cultures. They get to learn the terms that were used during that time, the writing, and customs, all such great things for children to be exposed to.
I was a little horrified in this book with some of the practises that the Mayans had...shaping babies heads.....it was definitely one of the more interesting books I have read of Roman's.
I love being exposed to new things, and this children's book taught me a lot of new things. If you have little people around you these are great books to add to your collections.
Source: I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. I have not been compensated in any way for this review. These are my own PERSONAL thoughts.
These are such fun books for kids. They explore different cultures. They get to learn the terms that were used during that time, the writing, and customs, all such great things for children to be exposed to.
I was a little horrified in this book with some of the practises that the Mayans had...shaping babies heads.....it was definitely one of the more interesting books I have read of Roman's.
I love being exposed to new things, and this children's book taught me a lot of new things. If you have little people around you these are great books to add to your collections.
Source: I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. I have not been compensated in any way for this review. These are my own PERSONAL thoughts.
November 9, 2017
nother book from the “If You Were Me And Lived…” series. This edition is about the Mayan Empire.
This series is great for kids to learn about history. Since I don’t have kids I think is also great for adults who do not read much history and want to learn by not getting overwhelmed with a huge history book. I learned many things that I did not know, like the fact that descendants of Mayans still live in the area and still speak Mayan. They placed boards on babies heads to elongated the head. They embedded jewels in their teeth.
There is a lot of information in this little book. My only problem is the info does not really stay in my head but I think that is a me problem not a book problem. Luckily since it is a kids book it is small and you can re-read the book quickly.
Carole P. Roman does a great job on the research of the history and on what to place in the books. I look forward to reading and learning more from the other books in the series.
This series is great for kids to learn about history. Since I don’t have kids I think is also great for adults who do not read much history and want to learn by not getting overwhelmed with a huge history book. I learned many things that I did not know, like the fact that descendants of Mayans still live in the area and still speak Mayan. They placed boards on babies heads to elongated the head. They embedded jewels in their teeth.
There is a lot of information in this little book. My only problem is the info does not really stay in my head but I think that is a me problem not a book problem. Luckily since it is a kids book it is small and you can re-read the book quickly.
Carole P. Roman does a great job on the research of the history and on what to place in the books. I look forward to reading and learning more from the other books in the series.
May 8, 2017
It's easy to see why children and parents love Carol P. Roman's books. She knows how to engage children and also teach them valuable parts of history. I'm amazed at how much she keeps expanding in order to enrich family's lives. Another great addition to the series.
April 28, 2017
One of the greatest ancient civilizations is the Mayan Empire and in this installment, Carole P. Roman gives us an award-winning tour. We learn what life was like for one merchant family from what they ate to societal expectations to even some of the magnificent inventions of the Mayan people. Let’s begin with some interesting facts of life for a Mayan family:
Employment was hereditary and if your father was a potter then you’d be a potter, too.
You lived in a simple rectangular house made of clay and you lived close to your extended family.
Your mother tended a communal kitchen garden and your family ate outdoors under an overhand of thatch. Men ate first, followed by the women.
A food staple was maize and you had it in every meal. Men would hunt for meat and that would accompany maize for meals.
Mayans were very religious so early in the morning, your family said a prayer at the shrine in your home.
Now for some of the amazing inventions and accomplishments of the Mayans:
The Mayans were the only American society with a written account of their history.
The Mayans prepared a calendar more accurate than the one used by the rest of the world.
In the field of medicine, the Mayans performed surgical operations on the brain.
The Mayans were incredible mathematicians. They were the first civilization to develop the number zero.
The Mayans mapped the night skies without the aid of a telescope.
Many of our foods (corn, squash, chocolate, fruits and turkeys) were perfected by the Mayans, as was the production of cotton.
I had the privilege of studying the Mayan Empire while at university and I was extremely impressed with this overview of the Mayan Empire. Well researched, Roman hit on all the main points while making it relevant for children. The illustrations are colorful, just like the Mayan Empire.
I highly recommend this book, especially for parents, teachers and educators. A terrific way to teach children about the Mayans in a fun, interactive way. One of the best books by Carole P. Roman to date!
Disclaimer: I received a paperback copy from the author in the hopes I’d review it.
My Rating: 5+ stars
This review first appeared: https://princessofthelight.wordpress.com
Employment was hereditary and if your father was a potter then you’d be a potter, too.
You lived in a simple rectangular house made of clay and you lived close to your extended family.
Your mother tended a communal kitchen garden and your family ate outdoors under an overhand of thatch. Men ate first, followed by the women.
A food staple was maize and you had it in every meal. Men would hunt for meat and that would accompany maize for meals.
Mayans were very religious so early in the morning, your family said a prayer at the shrine in your home.
Now for some of the amazing inventions and accomplishments of the Mayans:
The Mayans were the only American society with a written account of their history.
The Mayans prepared a calendar more accurate than the one used by the rest of the world.
In the field of medicine, the Mayans performed surgical operations on the brain.
The Mayans were incredible mathematicians. They were the first civilization to develop the number zero.
The Mayans mapped the night skies without the aid of a telescope.
Many of our foods (corn, squash, chocolate, fruits and turkeys) were perfected by the Mayans, as was the production of cotton.
I had the privilege of studying the Mayan Empire while at university and I was extremely impressed with this overview of the Mayan Empire. Well researched, Roman hit on all the main points while making it relevant for children. The illustrations are colorful, just like the Mayan Empire.
I highly recommend this book, especially for parents, teachers and educators. A terrific way to teach children about the Mayans in a fun, interactive way. One of the best books by Carole P. Roman to date!
Disclaimer: I received a paperback copy from the author in the hopes I’d review it.
My Rating: 5+ stars
This review first appeared: https://princessofthelight.wordpress.com
February 26, 2018
Reviewed by Paola Belloso (age 10) for Reader Views (2/18)
“If You Were Me and Lived in…the Mayan Empire” by Carole P. Roman will take you back in time to 1800 BC to a Mayan city, imagining you were an indigenous and your name was chosen after the moon, the sea, the good spirit, or a good farmer, always having a meaning of what your parents were, what they worked as, either farmers, or potter, etc. You will live in a home that was built on top of a stone and the walls were made of clay and a roof of hay. Having all your relatives living all around, your mom will stay with you cooking in a kitchen with all your aunts and cousins, weaving or maybe washing clothes in the river. Dads will go hunting for food with your brothers.
It is very interesting reading of a historical civilization that grew from the top southeastern part of what it is today the Yucatan Peninsula (You-cah-tan Puh-nins-uh-la) in Mexico down to Guatemala (Gwa-ta-ma-la), Belize (bel-lez), Honduras (Hon-dor-as), and El Salvador (El Sal-vuh-dor), where many of their descendants still live and speak the Mayan language. Even though many years have passed they still maintain their culture in their customs like food, pottery and their colorful weaving.
Once again, this series by Carole P. Roman will teach you so much about a different culture, how everything started and how much we have learned from the past. I loved the fact of how they recorded their accomplishments in stone being the only ancients who left a written history. Excellent illustrations.
A Note from Mom:
In “If You Were Me and Lived in…the Mayan Empire” by Carole P. Roman has once again introduced Paola once to a different culture in a very simple and condensed way. The unique way of writing her series has given information that will help Paola to remember what she’s learned. The glossary is very helpful and I loved the Mayan contributions to the world and the Famous Names in the Mayan Culture section. This series is a must-have in schools.
“If You Were Me and Lived in…the Mayan Empire” by Carole P. Roman will take you back in time to 1800 BC to a Mayan city, imagining you were an indigenous and your name was chosen after the moon, the sea, the good spirit, or a good farmer, always having a meaning of what your parents were, what they worked as, either farmers, or potter, etc. You will live in a home that was built on top of a stone and the walls were made of clay and a roof of hay. Having all your relatives living all around, your mom will stay with you cooking in a kitchen with all your aunts and cousins, weaving or maybe washing clothes in the river. Dads will go hunting for food with your brothers.
It is very interesting reading of a historical civilization that grew from the top southeastern part of what it is today the Yucatan Peninsula (You-cah-tan Puh-nins-uh-la) in Mexico down to Guatemala (Gwa-ta-ma-la), Belize (bel-lez), Honduras (Hon-dor-as), and El Salvador (El Sal-vuh-dor), where many of their descendants still live and speak the Mayan language. Even though many years have passed they still maintain their culture in their customs like food, pottery and their colorful weaving.
Once again, this series by Carole P. Roman will teach you so much about a different culture, how everything started and how much we have learned from the past. I loved the fact of how they recorded their accomplishments in stone being the only ancients who left a written history. Excellent illustrations.
A Note from Mom:
In “If You Were Me and Lived in…the Mayan Empire” by Carole P. Roman has once again introduced Paola once to a different culture in a very simple and condensed way. The unique way of writing her series has given information that will help Paola to remember what she’s learned. The glossary is very helpful and I loved the Mayan contributions to the world and the Famous Names in the Mayan Culture section. This series is a must-have in schools.
June 15, 2019
Having read the author's original series for younger children, this series, updated for older elementary children, is delightful.
I have always been fascinated with Mayan culture. Their buildings and environments are amazing as well as perplexing. Carole Roman breaks it down for children in this book. Many things are to be learned along the way including the Mayan's expertise in mathematics. Did you know they introduced the concept of zero or nothing? Neither did I!
As with the original series, she describes what boys and girls may be named but the book goes further to explain the rolls that each played in society and how one was born in to a particular role. She plops you, the reader, right in the middle of their civilization to learn and grow with them.
Larger words are spelled out and pronounced in the text as well in a back-book glossary. This has been a staple of the author's books and works well.
As a reader and reviewer of this book, I do want to note that the Mayan's did do things that we in the 21st century would find horrifying. These things are noted throughout the book and the author does not gloss over them. I thought that was important in illustrating a full picture of what life was like then and the author giving real information. Kudos!
Finally, I want to address the illustrations in the book. They were truly top notch. The illustrator did match some real-life pictures with ancient culture. By doing so, it seemed all too real, which of course, was the intention. The illustrator used bold colors and I believe correct coloring of the people. She did not try to mask clothing styles which I believe also leads to the truthfulness of the Mayan people that Carole P. Roman was betraying.
Well done book and deserves the 5 stars I am giving it. Don't take my word for it though, this book has won numerous awards which can be seen on the cover.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book for free to review. The opinions expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. ~Michelle
I have always been fascinated with Mayan culture. Their buildings and environments are amazing as well as perplexing. Carole Roman breaks it down for children in this book. Many things are to be learned along the way including the Mayan's expertise in mathematics. Did you know they introduced the concept of zero or nothing? Neither did I!
As with the original series, she describes what boys and girls may be named but the book goes further to explain the rolls that each played in society and how one was born in to a particular role. She plops you, the reader, right in the middle of their civilization to learn and grow with them.
Larger words are spelled out and pronounced in the text as well in a back-book glossary. This has been a staple of the author's books and works well.
As a reader and reviewer of this book, I do want to note that the Mayan's did do things that we in the 21st century would find horrifying. These things are noted throughout the book and the author does not gloss over them. I thought that was important in illustrating a full picture of what life was like then and the author giving real information. Kudos!
Finally, I want to address the illustrations in the book. They were truly top notch. The illustrator did match some real-life pictures with ancient culture. By doing so, it seemed all too real, which of course, was the intention. The illustrator used bold colors and I believe correct coloring of the people. She did not try to mask clothing styles which I believe also leads to the truthfulness of the Mayan people that Carole P. Roman was betraying.
Well done book and deserves the 5 stars I am giving it. Don't take my word for it though, this book has won numerous awards which can be seen on the cover.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book for free to review. The opinions expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. ~Michelle
March 31, 2017
If you were me and live in...the Mayan Empire by Carole P. Roman is another excellent book in her newest series about Civilizations Throughout Time. Her first series introduced culture and customs to elementary age and younger children, and with this series she brings history to life for older students. Paula Tabor has drawn beautiful illustrations to show what life in Mayan civilization would have looked like in the year 572. The author takes the reader briefly through a discussion of the beginnings of the Mayan Empire. With enchanting pictures and easy-to-read text, readers learn about adobe homes built on top of stone platforms and with roofs made of hay. Religion, city-states like Tikal, that was famous for its six large pyramids, and communal living are topics shared in the book. Clothing, jewelry, food, and the Mayan's idea about beauty are also discussed. Education was for the nobles only and the children of commoners learned the trade of their parents. Occasional questions throughout the book encourage reflection and discussion. Included at the end is a glossary of words, with pronunciations, and also a section on the famous names in Mayan culture. This is a wonderfully informative book that is sure to capture a child's (and the parent's too!) interest and imagination.
April 14, 2017
MY THOUGHTS
Ms. Roman is continually adding good children's books that are not only fun to read but have so much to learn from. Ms. Roman can tell the stories so that the young ones can understand and don't get bored. She keeps them interested. It's hard to find good books for children that they have fun reading and yet can learn about new countries, past and present. All children need to have the opportunity to read these wonderful books and travel to the different countries while using their imagination. Not only is the story good but the illustrations will attract the child's interest as well. They are colorful and go along with the story. This book is about the Mayan Empire located in southeastern Mexico from about 1800 BC to the 1500's. Ms. Roman researches her information so that what is presented is accurate. There is so much to learn about the different foods, clothing, their tatts, what they worked at, what they did for fun and oh, so much more. So if you have a child, grandchild or someone you love, get them a copy of this book and read with them. Adults can learn about these countries also.
I received this book from the author and voluntarily decided to review it.
Ms. Roman is continually adding good children's books that are not only fun to read but have so much to learn from. Ms. Roman can tell the stories so that the young ones can understand and don't get bored. She keeps them interested. It's hard to find good books for children that they have fun reading and yet can learn about new countries, past and present. All children need to have the opportunity to read these wonderful books and travel to the different countries while using their imagination. Not only is the story good but the illustrations will attract the child's interest as well. They are colorful and go along with the story. This book is about the Mayan Empire located in southeastern Mexico from about 1800 BC to the 1500's. Ms. Roman researches her information so that what is presented is accurate. There is so much to learn about the different foods, clothing, their tatts, what they worked at, what they did for fun and oh, so much more. So if you have a child, grandchild or someone you love, get them a copy of this book and read with them. Adults can learn about these countries also.
I received this book from the author and voluntarily decided to review it.
April 16, 2017
As always, there is so much to learn from Carole’s books. I didn’t know that the Mayans were the only ancient American society whose history was written down. Now it was not written in the language we know today, but through carved pictures. They had over 800 symbols. Like many ancient cultures, your job was inherited. Women didn’t have a lot of rights. They could not inherit any land. Everyone in the family worked hard. Prayers were said daily before the shrine every home had. Clothes identified your place in society. They were simple, yet colorful and filled with embroidery. There is so much to learn from this book. I recommend it to all.
I received copies to facilitate my review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
I received copies to facilitate my review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
June 3, 2017
What a change to read about the Mayans without all the sensational human sacrifices and wars normally associated with them (and the Aztecs, Incas, etc)
A great introduction for kids, to the daily lives of this ancient american civilisation.
The Vector style illustrations are very clear and colourful.
See my review also at:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/You-Were-Liv...
https://www.amazon.com/You-Were-Lived...
https://www.amazon.ca/You-Were-Lived-...
https://www.amazon.com.au/You-Were-Li...
A great introduction for kids, to the daily lives of this ancient american civilisation.
The Vector style illustrations are very clear and colourful.
See my review also at:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/You-Were-Liv...
https://www.amazon.com/You-Were-Lived...
https://www.amazon.ca/You-Were-Lived-...
https://www.amazon.com.au/You-Were-Li...
June 4, 2017
We're on our way to the Mayan Empire. This trip is going to be amazing. The Yucatan Peninsula was the home of the Mayans. The Mayans were very advanced. They kept a record of their history. They lived simply and were very happy. Did you know at age fifteen you were considered an adult? The Mayans also made many contributions to the world.
Well written and so fun to read. This series will give your child a look at the world. It engages their imagination and it gives you a chance to spend quality time with your children. You can't go wrong with a Carole P Roman book.
I found no issues.
I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5. ~Copy of book provided by author and I voluntarily reviewed it.
Well written and so fun to read. This series will give your child a look at the world. It engages their imagination and it gives you a chance to spend quality time with your children. You can't go wrong with a Carole P Roman book.
I found no issues.
I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5. ~Copy of book provided by author and I voluntarily reviewed it.
May 16, 2017
A look at the history of an ancient civilization with key points to arouse the curiosity of a young reader. It aroused this old guy’s curiosity as there were some information I was unaware of. Amazing how a seemingly primitive people could be so advanced for their time, and without smart phones, tablets or other techno-gadgets. I will be passing this down to my grandchildren and will likely do more research for my own purpose. Fascinating. Recommended for young (and maybe older) readers.
May 18, 2017
First off I didn't get the kindle edition, I have the paperback version from Carole Roman herself.
I have always enjoyed her "If You Were Me and Lived In..." books Not only do they teach children but us adults as well.
This time it's the Mayan Empire. When and where they lived, their method of language, clothing and food. I remember studying the Mayan culture back in grade school but Carole makes it so much more interesting when she uses kids to teach. All schools should have these books.
I have always enjoyed her "If You Were Me and Lived In..." books Not only do they teach children but us adults as well.
This time it's the Mayan Empire. When and where they lived, their method of language, clothing and food. I remember studying the Mayan culture back in grade school but Carole makes it so much more interesting when she uses kids to teach. All schools should have these books.
October 5, 2017
Another great story in the “if you were me....” series. Fun to read, colourful illustrations and educational all at the same time. Kids can’t help but enjoy learning with these great books
November 11, 2018
Great concept to convey complex facts
Short and simple yet conveys many key principles of Mayan life in a very accessible way. I am 56 so not just for kids.
Short and simple yet conveys many key principles of Mayan life in a very accessible way. I am 56 so not just for kids.
April 29, 2017
The latest addition to Carole P. Roman's series on different historical periods throughout the world focuses on the Mayan Empire. The opening spread juxtaposes a modern office building from the Yucatan Peninsula with a Mayan pyramid, which makes a great visual impression. The distinction of Mayans having the only written history among the ancient American societies is shared. A map shows the location of the major Mayan cities. And then the many details of life such as housing, clothing, religion, food, and occupations. Young readers will struggle with disbelief when they learn that parents worked hard to make their children cross-eyed, large-nosed, and pointy-headed! They will also probably resent that children had no choice but to follow in the same social class and occupation as their parents. The descriptions of Pok-ta-Tok ballgames will be met with more approval and enthusiasm.
Back matter includes a list of Mayan contributions to the world, a list of famous names from Mayan culture, and a glossary of terms. With the wide range of facts from different aspects of life during the time period, this will be a helpful book for classes studying ancient cultures.
A nice introduction to young readers who are curious about the past and important time periods and people. This series gives a broad overview of each period and location, and enough specifics to answer basic questions while also giving facts that can lead to further research.
I received a copy of the book from the author for review purposes.
Back matter includes a list of Mayan contributions to the world, a list of famous names from Mayan culture, and a glossary of terms. With the wide range of facts from different aspects of life during the time period, this will be a helpful book for classes studying ancient cultures.
A nice introduction to young readers who are curious about the past and important time periods and people. This series gives a broad overview of each period and location, and enough specifics to answer basic questions while also giving facts that can lead to further research.
I received a copy of the book from the author for review purposes.
May 5, 2017
About the Book:
Children's book on history of Mayan Empire.
My Review:
Carole Roman is always taking us to unforeseen lands and walking us through cultures that many of us will never get a chance to see. It is so much fun working our way through one of her portable field trips. Her latest is no different. The Mayan Empire is a little more well known, I would say. According to the book, your birth name is carefully chosen for you and it always has a meaning to it. Such as Ix Chell meaning moon goddess or Ix Kaknab meaning woman of the sea.
In a Mayan culture you live in a mud hut. The Mayans lived a life of hard labor and they had to work very hard each day. The had gardens, beehives, or they would be grinding corn. The Mayan Empire book is filled to overflowing with all sorts of interesting facts sure to start a hunger in your child to learn more about them.
Another great field trip for the books! A great read!
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author. All opinions are my own.
Children's book on history of Mayan Empire.
My Review:
Carole Roman is always taking us to unforeseen lands and walking us through cultures that many of us will never get a chance to see. It is so much fun working our way through one of her portable field trips. Her latest is no different. The Mayan Empire is a little more well known, I would say. According to the book, your birth name is carefully chosen for you and it always has a meaning to it. Such as Ix Chell meaning moon goddess or Ix Kaknab meaning woman of the sea.
In a Mayan culture you live in a mud hut. The Mayans lived a life of hard labor and they had to work very hard each day. The had gardens, beehives, or they would be grinding corn. The Mayan Empire book is filled to overflowing with all sorts of interesting facts sure to start a hunger in your child to learn more about them.
Another great field trip for the books! A great read!
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author. All opinions are my own.
August 4, 2017
Being a Latinamerican I think is important to talk about the Mayans, who are one of the most important civilizations of our History. It was a civilization that contributed to many advances in fields like medicine, Maths, Engineer, and mores-
Imagine that they were the first to think of the concept of "zero".
The book is amazing like all the others in the series. The data and information is educational and interesting. And the illustrations are colorful and vivid.
Another great addition to this series.
*** I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review. ***
Imagine that they were the first to think of the concept of "zero".
The book is amazing like all the others in the series. The data and information is educational and interesting. And the illustrations are colorful and vivid.
Another great addition to this series.
*** I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review. ***
April 12, 2017
This review is meant for parents, teachers, and other people that work with children to read.
"If You Were Me and Lived in...The Mayan Empire" explains what it could've been like to live during the Mayan Civilization in the year 572. Through the book children will learn information such as what the Mayans used for writing (what they wrote on), where they lived, popular names, how they dressed, what homes looked like, what work was like and how it was different for males and females, how children were educated, and a popular game.
It was interesting for me to learn that corn was eaten every meal and that Mayan people loved to wear jewelry and decorated their teeth. It was also interesting to learn that Mayans were more accepted if they had crossed eyes and flat heads.
Even though it might be true, I wish that the story didn't talk about how Mayans worshipped different Gods. It brought that up too much for me. I would probably want to skip the parts of the book that talked about them if I ever read this to any children.
Some people (both children and adults) might find it interesting to learn that the Mayans didn't have a middle class and how people were divided up into levels. Life was very hard for peasants.
The book does a great job of following the format of the same kind of topics as the other books in this civilization series!
I received this book free for the purpose of reviewing it.
"If You Were Me and Lived in...The Mayan Empire" explains what it could've been like to live during the Mayan Civilization in the year 572. Through the book children will learn information such as what the Mayans used for writing (what they wrote on), where they lived, popular names, how they dressed, what homes looked like, what work was like and how it was different for males and females, how children were educated, and a popular game.
It was interesting for me to learn that corn was eaten every meal and that Mayan people loved to wear jewelry and decorated their teeth. It was also interesting to learn that Mayans were more accepted if they had crossed eyes and flat heads.
Even though it might be true, I wish that the story didn't talk about how Mayans worshipped different Gods. It brought that up too much for me. I would probably want to skip the parts of the book that talked about them if I ever read this to any children.
Some people (both children and adults) might find it interesting to learn that the Mayans didn't have a middle class and how people were divided up into levels. Life was very hard for peasants.
The book does a great job of following the format of the same kind of topics as the other books in this civilization series!
I received this book free for the purpose of reviewing it.
April 26, 2017
Children can learn about what it would be like if they were a child living during ancient times of the Mayan Empire. Colorful illustrations and photography show various aspects of life in a Mayan city. The book is told in story form and covers geography, history, food, games, home life, and holidays. All of the unfamiliar words have a pronunciation guide directly after the word as well as included in the glossary at the back of the book. There is also couple of pages listing some of the famous names from the culture and how they were significant.
My children loved the book and it opened up the conversation for more discussion and research about the Mayan culture and what it's like to live there. The author does a great job of getting information across without being too detailed or overwhelming. The book would be a good resource for schools or home school parents to add to the curriculum.
I received a copy of this book. All thoughts expressed are my own.
My children loved the book and it opened up the conversation for more discussion and research about the Mayan culture and what it's like to live there. The author does a great job of getting information across without being too detailed or overwhelming. The book would be a good resource for schools or home school parents to add to the curriculum.
I received a copy of this book. All thoughts expressed are my own.
April 29, 2017
She has done it again! Through Carole P. Roman's wonderful skill, and this amazing book, IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN...THE MAYAN EMPIRE, you can learn about the Mayan civilization that has been traced back as far as 1800 BC. That is a long, long way back to the past You will discover their written history. What their cities and towns may have looked like. What they wore. What they ate, and about their crafts. Some things they did might actually surprise you; like how a sign of courage and bravery was endured through pain. And what Rich Mayans used gemstones for. On page 32 you will learn how and why boards were used on newborns, and why large noses were appreciated. The more I read and thought about their customs, the more I thought about our customs and how they would probably seem strange to them, if they were here to see us today. And one way to learn about the Mayan Empire, is to pick up this fascinating book and delve into it. A great read!
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