A Child's Perspective on 'About Time: A Children's Guide To The History And Science Of Time'

This special feature presents a unique review of 'About Time: A Children's Guide to the History and Science of Time' by Rebecca Struthers and Alom Shaha, as seen through the eyes of 9-year-old Eleanor Aujero. Eleanor, whose father works at Hodinkee, offers her insightful and charming perspective on this interactive non-fiction book. The book delves into diverse methods of timekeeping, from ancient sundials to contemporary watches, incorporating engaging DIY activities and captivating illustrations. Eleanor's review highlights the book's ability to spark curiosity in young minds about the intricate nature of time and its measurement, making it an enjoyable read for all ages.

Eleanor Aujero, a 9-year-old fifth-grader from Brooklyn, shares her personal journey through the pages of 'About Time.' Having learned to tell time in first grade, she found herself captivated by the "baffling" concept of time and its myriad forms. Her father, recognizing her burgeoning interest and the book's relevance to his own field, encouraged her to explore this educational and entertaining guide. The book's interactive elements, such as instructions for building a sundial or an hourglass, immediately drew her in, transforming learning into an adventure. Eleanor humorously recounts her "lazy" method of checking the time—by simply glancing at a clock or asking a sibling, a relatable anecdote for many.

The section on sundials particularly fascinated Eleanor. She discovered that a sundial's gnomon casts a shadow to indicate the time, a method that has roots in ancient civilizations. Her father further enriched this learning experience by sharing photographs of the Intihuatana Stone in Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan sundial. Eleanor was amazed by the Incans' precision in aligning the stone with the equinoxes, all without modern technology. This historical context brought the science of time to life, illustrating how people throughout history have ingeniously tracked the passage of moments.

Hourglasses also captured Eleanor's attention. She learned about their potential origins in ancient Egypt or Babylonia (modern-day southern Iraq) and appreciated the book's DIY instructions for creating one at home. She found it intriguing that hourglasses were favored on ships due to their reliability over water clocks, which would slosh around in the turbulent sea. This practical application of timekeeping in maritime navigation provided a tangible connection to the historical significance of these devices, reinforcing the idea that timekeeping was not merely an abstract concept but a crucial tool for survival and exploration.

The transition to modern timekeeping introduced Eleanor to the wonders of analog and digital watches. She was particularly astonished by the fact that electronic watches rely on quartz crystals vibrating 32,768 times per second, a detail she found "crazy." The book also revealed the incredible precision of atomic clocks, capable of running for 40 billion years without losing or gaining a second. Eleanor reflected on the stark contrast between life with and without digital devices, admitting her own dependence on technology. The "Clockwork Creations" section, which demystifies the inner workings of analog watches, revealed the intricate collaboration of gears and springs. She was fascinated to learn that even complex watches, some with thousands of parts, share mechanical principles with simple wind-up toys. This realization resonated with her, symbolizing how different elements can work together harmoniously, much like diverse individuals forming a cohesive team.

Ultimately, 'About Time' left a profound impression on Eleanor, making her keenly aware of time's pervasive role in daily life. From playing musical instruments like the piano and harp, where timing is crucial to avoid "chaos," to appreciating the complex mechanics of watches, she gained a deeper understanding and appreciation for the subject. She highly recommends the book to both children and adults, praising its beautiful illustrations and informative content. Eleanor concludes her review with a playful "About Time for me to go!" expressing her gratitude to Hodinkee, Rebecca Struthers, and Alom Shaha for this enriching experience and her hope to contribute again in the future.