Most history books start at a certain point and then discuss what happened next, presenting history as a chronological chain of events. But what if there was a different way?

We’re excited to announce the publication of two novels that approach the topic of world history in a fascinating new way. Our One Year in History series presents history laterally—that is, instead of telling what happened chronologically, each of these books tells what was happening virtually everywhere in the world, all within a single year.

The two books in the series are remarkable in what they accomplish. Beyond Columbus: World History in the Year 1492 and The Spirit of Revolution: World History in the Year 1795 offer readers a unique perspective in the form of biographical novels about peoples, cultures, and events all over the entire globe. Each book follows a month-by-month format broken into individual days, giving readers bite-sized chapters that tell interesting and illuminating stories. Together, these stories paint a picture of the state of the world in general, and humanity in particular, at one point in time.

The stories are about political rulers, artists and architects, writers, religious leaders, explorers, inventors, influential citizens, ordinary people, and more who lived in virtually every country, continent, and empire on Earth. Some of these individuals are well-known, but many are not. Kids who read these books will gain an understanding of the interlocking threads that make up the fabric of our world in ways that expand their knowledge and open their minds to a broad new perspective on history.

One Year in History Series
Beyond Columbus: World History in the Year 1492
The Spirit of Revolution: World History in the Year 1795
Ages: 12-18+
Cost: $15 each

Order these extraordinary, well-crafted books today, and see what a lateral approach to history can offer the young readers in your life!