| ________________
CM . . .
. Volume X Number 12. . . . February 13, 2004
In board book format, My First Magic Games Book contains eight board games, all having been given a magic-connected name. With the exception of the first game, "Hocus Pocus," each game takes up a double page spread. The opening game's limited space results from the cover's inside page being used as a large envelope for storing the markers/playing pieces plus the spinner (and pencil for the spinner which is not supplied) once they have been separated from the sheet upon which they have been printed. To facilitate young hands removing the pieces from the heavy paper (but still damageable) storage envelope, experienced parents will likely suggest that their children place these small items in a plastic bag prior to putting them away. The same parents might also wish to replace the awkward cardboard spinner with a die. On each game page, the goal of the game is explained as well the "rules" for playing it. Of the eight games, three are suggested for just two players while the remaining five can occupy from two to four players. Kids will recognize "Moon Race" and "Wacky Wizards" as just variants of "snakes and ladders" while two of the other games, "Hubble Bubble"and "Flying Carpets," simply require the players to move from their playing pieces from the beginning to the end while encountering "landing spots" that either penalize or reward them. The three slightly more challenging games, "Dragon Fire," "Flower Fairies" and "Pumpkin Patch," will likely appeal more to the older end of the recommended audience age range. Despite the board book's sturdy construction, its loose playing pieces perhaps limit the book's being part of school or public library collections. My First Magic Games Book, however, is a most economical addition to home game centres, and it would be a natural item to have for children to play with during long car rides. Having played the book's games with a five and a 10-year-old, I can confirm their popularity, and all, but the very simple "Hocus Pocus," had to be played many, many times. Highly Recommended. Dave Jenkinson teaches courses in children's and YA literature in the Faculty of Education, the University of Manitoba.
To comment
on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.
Copyright © the Manitoba Library Association. Reproduction for personal
use is permitted only if this copyright notice is maintained. Any
other reproduction is prohibited without permission.
NEXT REVIEW |TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR THIS ISSUE
- February 13, 2004.
AUTHORS
| TITLES | MEDIA REVIEWS
| PROFILES
| BACK ISSUES
| SEARCH | CMARCHIVE
| HOME |
