A Little History of the World

by Yale University Presshttp://www.yalebooks.com

Social_studiesGrades 5–12

A Little History of the World: Engaging Narrative World History Survey

A Little History of the World by E.H. Gombrich is a narrative world history book covering prehistory through WWII, written in an accessible, conversational style with tongue-in-cheek humor. Originally written in German in 1935 and later translated by the author himself, this engaging survey emphasizes major civilizations and historical developments from a European perspective.

Best for

Families seeking an engaging world history read-aloud for upper elementary through high school students, particularly as a supplement to more comprehensive history curricula that need narrative coherence and cultural literacy building.

Evaluation Criteria

1 strength · 4 concerns · 1 neutral · 1 insufficient evidence

Chronological KnowledgeStrength

The curriculum builds chronological knowledge systematically, covering prehistory through World War II in sequential order. Gombrich hits major historical highlights and civilizations in chronological progression, though he does not attempt comprehensive coverage of every event.

Review notes the book covers 'prehistory up through World War II' and 'chapters cover all of the major ancient civilizations' in apparent chronological order, with content speeding up 'after the fall of Rome' through 'the rest of world history up through WWII'

Primary SourcesConcern

The curriculum does not appear to incorporate primary source documents in its narrative approach. The book functions more as an engaging historical narrative than a document-based curriculum.

Review describes it as having a 'tongue-in-cheek humor and friendly writing style' and notes 'I can't use the word textbook to describe it' - suggests narrative format rather than primary source integration

Teacher TrainingConcern

The curriculum provides no teacher training or professional development materials, as it is a standalone narrative book rather than a complete instructional program. Teachers would need to develop their own lesson plans and activities.

Review indicates this is a book rather than a curriculum package, with suggestion to add 'other resources and assignments' to create complete courses

Retrieval PracticeConcern

The curriculum does not include retrieval practice or spaced review activities. As a narrative book, it lacks the systematic review mechanisms needed for long-term retention of historical facts.

Review describes it as a 'delightful book' for reading but makes no mention of review activities, practice exercises, or retention strategies

Geographic KnowledgeConcern

Geographic knowledge appears limited, with strong coverage of Western civilization but minimal attention to other world regions. The curriculum reflects the author's European perspective and experiences.

Review notes 'Japan, India, Africa, and others are only treated in reference to western civilization' and mentions the author's 'European perspective' and familiarity with countries he knows well

Direct InstructionNeutral

The curriculum does not facilitate direct instruction but rather provides engaging narrative content that could supplement teacher-led instruction. It functions as a readable survey rather than an instructional program.

Review suggests using it 'as a read aloud and discussion book' and 'adding other resources and assignments to expand world history coverage to make complete courses' - indicates it's supplementary material rather than instructional curriculum

Vocabulary BuildingInsufficient Evidence

The curriculum does not appear to include explicit vocabulary instruction, focusing instead on narrative storytelling. Social studies terminology would be encountered contextually rather than systematically taught.

Review emphasizes the book's 'friendly writing style' and narrative approach but makes no mention of vocabulary development or explicit term instruction

Review Sources

cathyduffy

Cathy Duffy

Key Facts
GradesGrades 5–12
SubjectSocial_studies
PedagogyNot specified
Faith-BasedNo
Pricing$13.95 at Amazon.com | $14.50 at Rainbowresource.com | $21.80 at Amazon.com | $2.62 Used at Amazon.com Marketplace

Looking for something different?

If none of these options feel right, explore a non-traditional approach. Pallas Center offers a unique curriculum, or design your own with Palladay.

Data sources: cathyduffy