This term we’re studying Australian explorers, specifically our Inland explorers. When gathering resources I recalled this set of books with great fondness. The series is titled ‘Pictorial Social Studies’ with a little logo labelled ‘Australian Visual Education’.
Published in 1958, with 55 books in the set, covering not only Australian history but social studies worldwide. My favourite however are the Australian history books, covering the Settlement and expansion, exploration, Gold and more.
Written in comic form they are chock full of information without overloading and the visual presentation totally engages the children, ‘whetting the appetite’ for more information. Australian history buffs, I suggest you check out ebay and gumtree.
One reason I know they are totally effective in imparting knowledge is, I’ve used these series before.
Recently my brothers B(30) & K(28) were discussing a visit to the Blue Mountains which that had undertaken with overseas visitors, they had regaled the group with factual information about Blaxland, Lawson and Wentworth’s incredible feat crossing the Blue Mountains. The group listened spellbound as they bombarded them with historical detail, the visitors much impressed asked how they knew so much? A question I was keen to have answered myself when the story was recounted to me. Brother B reminded me, “You taught me”
“I did?”
“Remember that comic book you read to us?” Well yes but the boys were all of 6 & 8 then. Amazing that they both remembered over two decades later!!
Inside of each cover is a map. Without further ado, displaying the contents below, as I’m certain my friends Jeanne and Angela, amongst others are eager to see:)
