If You Lived 100 Years Ago

...If you Lived 100 Years Ago is a nonfiction book written by Ann McGovern and illustrated by Anna DiVito in 1999. It is intended for children ages 7-10.

This books talks about differences between New York City in the 1890's versus now. It tells how 100 years ago, there was no electronics, movies with sound, and even foods that we eat today like pizza, frozen foods and potato chips. The smells and sounds were even different from now. They used horses and carriages instead of cars and buses. Their wardrobes differed greatly from now.

The information in this book is very detailed and the story itself is entertaining to read. Organizationally, it is logical and understandable and the design is very eye catching. The illustrations are colorful and cartoonish sketches, but look like they accurately depict the story.

I liked this book. I learned a lot of new things that the story talked about, like some major differences and what things have changed. I also learned a lot of new things. This would be a good book for kids to realize the kinds of things people had to live without and what their daily lives were like. I think they would learn a lot about what it was like 100 years ago.

Motivational Activities:

• Compare and contrast New York in 1890's vs. now. What are some major differences. Are there any big similarities?
• Write an essay about living 100 years ago. Talk about things you would enjoy and things thou might to enjoy. 

Reader Response Questions:

• Would you like to have lived 100 years ago? Why or why not?
• What are some things we have now that they did not have back then? What are your favorite things?
• What do you think of the outfits they wore; would you like to wear something like that? Why or why not?

 McGovern, A., & DiVito, A. (1999). ...If you lived 100 years ago. New York, NY: Scholastic.