The Story of Mankind

Summary

Van Loon traces human history from prehistoric times through the early twentieth century in a single sweeping narrative aimed at young readers. He writes in a conversational, opinionated voice and illustrates the book with his own simple line drawings, framing history as a story of ideas, exploration, and the slow growth of tolerance. The book matters as a pioneering work of nonfiction for children and as the very first title to receive the honor.