Marco Polo: Amazing Adventures in China

Children's Literature - Jody Little

This biography is part of the series, "Great Explorers of the World." The author begins with the story of Marco's father and uncle, Maffeo and Niccolo Polo, both Venetian merchants who traveled to the East for exotic spices, silks, and jewels. Marco did not know his father during the first fifteen years of his life, but in the year 1271, at the age of seventeen, he is allowed to travel with his father and uncle to the East to meet the great Kublai Khan. Students will learn some history of both China and Italy, including the Tartars of the Mongol Empire, the Venice trading industry, and the rise of the two most well-known Mongol leaders, Genghis Khan and Kublai Khan. It takes Marco and his traveling companions four years to reach the palace of Kublai Khan. Once there, Marco spends the next seventeen years in the service of the great Khan. He is eventually allowed to leave the palace and is asked to escort a Mongol Princess to her betrothed in Persia. In the year 1295 Marco finally returns to Venice. Several years later, Marco is imprisoned. During his time in prison, Marco dictates the story of his travels to a fellow inmate. Some of the excerpts from Marco's tale are included in this book. The book also includes a time line, several paintings and illustrations, a map of Polo's journey, a glossary and chapter notes. While much of the writing may be dry for younger readers, there is good information for possible research projects. Reviewer: Jody Little

School Library Journal

Gr 6–8—Feinstein describes the travels of Marco Polo from Venice to China and back, covering the later half of the 13th century. A route map is provided. Full-color illustrations include medieval tapestries, reproductions, and photographs of the regions today. This title will support units on world history and exploration and is suitable for reports. However, it doesn't compare to Russell Freedman's Adventures of Marco Polo (Scholastic, 2006) or Demi's Marco Polo (Marshall Cavendish, 2008). Both are certainly better books, especially for reading and enjoyment of a biography. Feinstein's work is not as interesting to read (or as easy) as Joan Holub's Who Was Marco Polo? (Grosset & Dunlap, 2007). Unfortunately, this type of book is what teachers often want kids to use for reports, even though it isn't the best education model. For high-quality presentations, stick with Freeman and/or Demi.—Erlene Bishop Killeen, Stroughton Area School District, WI