Parents' Guide to

Into the Unknown with Josh Bernstein

By Will Wade, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 7+

Appealing host turns history into a fun adventure.

TV Discovery Channel Educational 2008
Into the Unknown with Josh Bernstein Poster Image

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What's the Story?

Josh Bernstein, the namesake host of INTO THE UNKNOWN WITH JOSH BERNSTEIN, could pop up anywhere. In one episode of this entertaining, educational travel series, he circles the Mediterranean, learning how ancient Roman gladiators lived and died. In the next, he's in Northern Peru, studying the long-extinct Chachapoya tribe. Then it's off to Mali to uncover the fabled history of Timbuktu, once one of Africa's most important trade centers. He's joined on these trips by professors, historians, and local guides who offer plenty of insights on the topic of the day.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

The series covers an extensive range of interesting topics and exotic destinations. In just the first season, Bernstein and his crew visited 15 countries on five continents. He's been practicing these travel guide skills for some time, having already hosted Digging for the Truth -- a similar show on the History Channel -- for three seasons. That series was focused on archaeological mysteries, while Into the Unknown has more of a historical angle, but Bernstein makes both series an entertaining way to learn about the world's more remote spots and history's less-well-known chapters.

He's a likable host and makes for an appealing travel companion. He obviously enjoys these adventures, and he seems truly interested in learning more about the people and places he visits. Bernstein's curiosity and thirst for knowledge makes his show a great way for viewers -- especially younger ones -- to learn some fun facts about history.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about history. Do you think watching shows like this one is a good way to learn new things? Does Josh Bernstein make you want to learn more on your own? If so, where would you start? Each episode of this show covers lots of interesting details about one specific topic -- does that make it hard to get a basic understanding of the subject? Can a show like this replace traditional education, or should it be considered a supplement to classes and books?

TV Details

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