All Formats & Editions

Man was the last to come but the first to use his brain for the purpose of conquering the forces of nature. That is the reason why we are going to study him, rather than cats or dogs or horses or any of the other animals, who, all in their own way, have a very interesting historical... Read Full Overview

Originally written in 1921 for the author's grandchildren, Hendrik Willem van Loon's The Story of Mankind has charmed generations with its warmth, simplicity, and wisdom. Rather than the dry recitation of events so common in school textbooks, van Loon's witty, amiable tone animates... Read Full Overview

The Story of Mankind by Hendrik Willem van Loon was the first book to be awarded the Newbery Medal for an outstanding contribution to children's literature. Written for his grandchildren, The Story of Mankind intermingles personal anecdotes with the history of Western civilization,... Read Full Overview

Winner of the first John Newberry Medal, Hendrik Willem van Loon's The Story of Mankind, originally written for the author's grandchildren, has charmed generations with its warmth and wisdom. Beginning with the origins of human life and sweeping forward to illuminate all of... Read Full Overview

Winner of the first John Newbery Medal in 1921, here is van Loon's renowned classic record of historic adventure, updated for the 21st century.