What the books are
Each book covers one era of history in depth. The standard account most children meet in school is the backdrop. On top of it come the surprising true stories and details the short version skips: the people in the crowd, the odd coincidences, the arguments historians are still having.
Chapters open on their most surprising true fact. A short "what school tells you" section sets the scene, then two to four "bits" tell the stories behind it, each with at least one large illustration. Every chapter ends with a quick "Did they really?" check.
How we check the facts
- Every fact is checked against two sources before it goes into a book.
- The words inside the illustrations are checked the same way as the text, letter by letter.
- When historians disagree, the book says so and explains why.
- There is no invented dialogue. Quotations come from real historical sources.
- Each book includes a note explaining how its facts were checked.
What you will not find
- Gore or gross-out humor. The drama comes from weather, light, danger and faces, never from anything that would give a child nightmares.
- Random fact lists. Each book stays with one era.
- QR codes or links that send children online.
What is available now?
The first books are being written and illustrated now, beginning with the American Revolution. Titles and release details will appear on this site once they are confirmed.
Get in touch
Questions from families, teachers, librarians and booksellers are welcome at hello@brilliantio.com.