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Sky Boys: How They Built the Empire State Building

(2006, Non-Fiction - History, Written by Deborah Hopkinson, Illustrated by James Ransome)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 4, age appropriate for kids over 5; suggested age 5.

  • Is it any good?

    4.0

  • Common Sense says

    Inspiring tale of landmark's construction.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 5 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Not an issue.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence & scariness:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Sky Boys: How They Built the Empire State Building

Parents need to know that there's not much to be concerned about here, but some things may need explanation and context. This takes place during the Great Depression, and your kids may want to know why children are scavenging for firewood in the streets of New York.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about skyscrapers. Why do people want to build something so big and difficult to construct? Why do they inspire us? Why would people want such a dangerous job?
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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Adult Reviewer
    BlueJade
    Lives in Illinois
    I rate this title on for age 5 and give it 3.0
    • My highlights are:
    • Educational
    • Great illustrations

    Fine for New Yorkers

    This is a well developed book. But its primary appeal will be to New Yorkers who want to understand how the Empire State Building was constructed. It may also fit into a historical unit about the time period. The illustrations are fine. Even up to fifth graders may find this book good because of its informative pictures and text. I just wish there were more books about people who live outside New York City.

    This review...

    Helped me decide | Had useful details | Read my mind
    Flag as inappropriate

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