Timelines are a wonderful way to help us see what happened when and where in history. Becoming more aware of events that took place at the same time on different continents, contributes hugely to our understanding of the world and the events that have shaped it. Read on to discover a range of visually appealing timelines that help readers make connections across time periods and cultures.
Disclosure: The Amazon links below are affiliate links. This means that, at no cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize the purchase.
The Big History Timeline Wallbook
by Christopher Lloyd
Review: This enticing book features a 2-metre long timeline highlighting key events in world history from the Big Bang to the present day. Initially focusing on land and sea, it evolves to address significant historical developments in Asia, the Middle East and Africa, Europe and the Americas. Additionally, “The Wallbook Chronicle”, written in the style of a newspaper, delves into key moments. A 50 question quiz and crossword add further interactive elements. Readers will also find a handy pocket magnifier to use with the timeline. This is a super book and well worth adding to your home or school library.
Suggested Reading Age: 6 – 14
Nonfiction Nuggets Teaching Tip: Language Link: Students write newspaper articles to go with those in “The Wallbook Chronicle”, highlighting key aspects of history they are learning about.
Terrific Timelines: Fashion
by Richard Ferguson (author) and Kelly Smith (illustrator)
Review: A timeline with a difference, this book takes readers on a fascinating journey through fashion. The fashions of Ancient Egypt, the later Middle Ages, Renaissance Italy, Victorian Britain and 21st-century fashion, are some of the periods touched upon. Highly informative, fashion is set in its cultural and historical context. The impact of geography and climate on designs as well as technological innovations, such as the sewing machine, are highlighted. The press-out, put together and display element is a real treat and is sure to appeal to students. N.B. The display element only features women’s fashions.
Suggested Reading Age: 7 – 11, although older readers interested in fashion would also find this appealing.
Nonfiction Nuggets Teaching Tip: Extended Display: Students add to the existing fashion display by including men’s fashion from the different periods and/or including additional timeframes.
Customized Displays: Inspired by the press-out fashion templates, students create a cut-out display of a subject that interests them, such as transport, and show its development through history.
Timelines of World History
by Jane Chisholm
Review: This stunning reference book develops readers’ global awareness of history, starting with the Ancient World and ending in 2000. Each double-page spread features multiple regions of the world, allowing readers to easily see what was happening where and when. These regions are initially divided into Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and The Americas. Please note that depending on the historical period, certain regions have more of a focus than others. Pictures and illustrations throughout the text create interest, highlighting the featured events. A detailed glossary and lists of heads of state are located at the back of the book. In addition, students can carry out further research using the safe, recommended websites in the Internet linked section. Delving into this book will provide plenty of “I didn’t realize that!” moments. This is highly recommended in helping readers understand and make connections between events across the globe.
Suggested Reading Age: 9 – 12, however, in my opinion students of all ages will benefit from and enjoy looking at this.
Nonfiction Nuggets Teaching Tip: Awakened Perspectives: As students are studying an event or time period in history, encourage them to see what was happening at the same time in different parts of the world.
History Year by Year
by DK Smithsonian
Review: Photos, maps and illustrations abound in this hugely accessible reference book. Written in clear, easy to understand language, perfect for its target audience, this book is a hugely enjoyable ride through history. Beginning 6.5 million years ago and ending in the modern era, readers explore inventions, revolutions and significant historical events and figures across the globe. Quotes from literature, historical documents and people past and present further add to the text, providing a powerful human element to accompany the facts. This is a treasure trove of information that will appeal to a wide audience.
Suggested Reading Age: 9 – 12. The visual nature of the book would also appeal to younger readers and older ones are sure to discover some new historical tidbit or fact.
Nonfiction Nuggets Teaching Tip: Quote Quest: As students explore a historical event, ask them to research and share quotes from leading figures or people who lived through the event in question.
Timeline: A Visual History of the World
by Peter Goes
Review: Beautiful, hand-drawn illustrations guide readers through history from the Big Bang to the 2000s. Key figures, events and inventions are depicted in a muted colour palette along a black winding road; occasional sparks of colour draw the eye. The annotated illustrations, which are intricate and often humourous in nature, provide students with key learnings and interesting facts. Older readers will enjoy spotting well-known figures and items as they explore the book. Each double-page spread pertains to a different period in history. This book really is a treat for the eyes and an enjoyable way of delving into and learning about history.
Suggested Reading Age: 10 – 18. In my opinion, younger students would also enjoy looking at and reading this.
Nonfiction Nuggets Teaching Tip: Double Page Spread: Students create their own detailed double-page spread linked to a historical period in time. For those who do not enjoy drawing, they could cut out relevant images and create the spread in a collage style.
Happy Reading!
Do YOU know of any great timeline books to add to this list? Please leave a recommendation below to support our community.
Other Social Studies Related Posts You May Find Helpful:
Spectacular Celebrations & Fabulous Festivals