So you want to be a Viking? by Georgia Amson-Bradshaw, illustrated by Takayo Akiyama

Apparently this was abridged from a 2011 book, Viking by John Haywood. It was part of a series of "unofficial" guides. The creators also adapted a Roman legionary title. The young reader's edition, with all new cartoons and illustrations, features three kids: Kate, who longs for glory (and bloodshed), Angus, who just wants go skip the whole thing, and Eddie (dark-skinned) who is ready for anything.

The illustrations are cartoons in a limited palette of greens and grays. The book is mostly broken up into humorous lists, small chunks of text, and factoids about Vikings, all delivered with a humorous slant. It starts with the kids at a library, going to check out the history section, "Children's books are so tame." They find a book on Vikings and imagine themselves as characters in the book. After a sing-along, it starts with a "Viking checklist" of what you need to be a Viking warrior (money mostly) and the other things you can be, down to a "thrall" or slave. The book has a "choose your own adventure" flare as readers pick which type of Viking they want to be, choose their weapons and armor, and then learn about the hazards of the Viking life. Shipwrecks, battle, looting, and "Viking healthcare" are among the topics included.

The book ends with a map, glossary, and index.

Verdict: This was funny and informative, but I always wonder about handing kids "nonfiction" with so many fictional elements. However, this one is so over the top that I don't think it's a problem; it makes a fun book to browse and a silly introduction to Viking life.

ISBN: 9780500651841; Published September 2019 by Thames and Hudson; Borrowed from another library in my consortium