Seven Wonders of the Ancient World (Lynn Curlee Wonders of the World)
#1 in Lynn Curlee Wonders of the World Series
What’s inside...
In this richly illustrated nonfiction picture book, Lynn Curlee guides readers through the history, engineering, and enduring legends of the seven man-made marvels celebrated by ancient Greek scholars. Each spread combines compelling narrative with bold acrylic paintings, explaining why each wonder was built, what it looked like, and how time or disaster eventually brought most of them to ruin. The book conveys both the ingenuity of early civilizations and the mysteries that still surround these iconic structures.
Discussion points
Which wonder impressed you the most and why?
How did ancient builders solve problems without modern machines?
What building today might future generations call a wonder?
Why is it important to protect historical sites?
Tip: Role play these questions
Locate each wonder on a map together.
Compare illustration details to current photographs or reconstructions.
Encourage drawing or building a model of a favorite wonder.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance leads to great achievements
Explanation: Builders spent decades perfecting massive projects like the Great Pyramid.
Real-World Application: Long-term goals, such as school projects, require steady effort.
Example Lesson: Collaboration multiplies creativity
Explanation: Architects, artists, and laborers worked together on each wonder.
Real-World Application: Teamwork in group assignments produces better results.
Example Lesson: Respecting history preserves knowledge
Explanation: Many wonders were lost through neglect or conflict.
Real-World Application: Caring for community monuments keeps local history alive.
Example Lesson: Curiosity sparks discovery
Explanation: Ancient travelers catalogued wonders because they asked questions.
Real-World Application: Asking why and how fuels learning in any subject.