A Little History of the World

Name: A Little History of the World
Brand: Yale University Presshttp://www.yalebooks.com

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

Social_studiesGrades 5–12

About This Curriculum

An engaging narrative history of human civilization from the stone age to the atomic age, written in accessible prose for readers both young and old, emphasizing the sweep of human experience rather than dry facts and dates.

What makes it unique: A uniquely accessible world history written by a renowned art historian that successfully bridges academic expertise with engaging storytelling for all ages, featuring flowing narrative prose and beautiful illustrations.

A Little History of the World: Narrative-Driven World History Survey

E.H. Gombrich's A Little History of the World is a single-volume narrative history spanning from prehistory to World War II, written in an accessible, conversational style for upper elementary through high school students. Originally published in German in 1935, this literature-based approach emphasizes storytelling and broad historical themes rather than systematic curriculum structure.

Best for

Families seeking an engaging world history read-aloud for upper elementary students or supplementary reading for middle and high school students, particularly those wanting a conversational introduction to historical themes

Evaluation Criteria

1 strength · 5 concerns · 1 neutral

Chronological KnowledgeStrength

The book follows a clear chronological progression from prehistory through WWII, covering major civilizations and historical periods in sequence.

Reviews note it covers 'prehistory up through World War II' and 'hits the major highlights through the rest of world history' in chronological order

Primary SourcesConcern

The curriculum does not incorporate primary source documents, relying instead on Gombrich's narrative synthesis.

Reviews describe it as a narrative history book with no mention of primary source materials or document analysis

Teacher TrainingConcern

No teacher support materials or professional development resources are mentioned.

Reviews focus solely on the book content with no reference to teacher guides, lesson plans, or instructional support

Direct InstructionConcern

The book lacks structured instructional features, functioning more as independent reading material than systematic curriculum.

One reviewer notes 'I can't use the word textbook to describe it' and suggests using it 'as a read aloud and discussion book...adding other resources and assignments'

Retrieval PracticeConcern

The narrative format provides no built-in review mechanisms or retrieval practice opportunities.

Reviews describe it purely as a narrative history with no mention of review exercises, assessments, or practice activities

Geographic KnowledgeConcern

Geographic coverage is present but heavily Eurocentric with limited attention to non-Western regions.

One reviewer notes 'China gets a good bit of attention although Japan, India, Africa, and others are only treated in reference to western civilization' and criticizes the 'heavy Eurocentric bias'

Vocabulary BuildingNeutral

The book appears to introduce historical concepts naturally through narrative but lacks systematic vocabulary instruction.

Reviews mention Gombrich's accessible writing style and use of 'period slang' but no explicit vocabulary development features

Sources: cathyduffyreviews.com, launiusr.wordpress.com