Shelving location: M6

Title: The Story of Chocolate Publisher: Usborne Beginners (Usborne Publishing) Authors: Katie Daynes (Writer), Adam Larkum (Illustrator) Format: Non-fiction, leveled reader with illustrations Page Count: Approx. 32 pages Content Structure: The book is divided into short, engaging sections that follow a logical sequence: Introduction to Chocolate What is chocolate? Everyday chocolate products The Cacao Bean's Journey Where cacao comes from (tropical rainforests) How it’s grown and harvested History of Chocolate Ancient civilizations (Aztecs, Mayans) Cacao as a drink and currency Chocolate in Europe Spanish explorers bring it to Europe Popularity spreads Modern Chocolate Making From bean to bar: factories and machinery Packaging and marketing Fun Facts World records, quirky chocolate trivia Glossary & Index Child-friendly definitions of key terms

The Story of Chocolate introduces young readers to the fascinating journey of how chocolate is made. Beginning with the cacao bean in tropical rainforests, the book explains its transformation through ancient history, cultural significance, and eventual global popularity. It explains how the beans are grown, harvested, and processed, and how modern chocolate is manufactured. Rich illustrations and simple language make this a compelling read that mixes fun facts with educational content.

Age Group: 5–8 years Reading Level: Early readers / Level 2 (suitable for Grades 1–3) Ideal For: Curious young readers Classroom use in science, geography, or history themes Supplement to lessons on food origins, sustainability, or global trade Educational Value: Literacy Skills: Simple sentence structures help build fluency and comprehension Global Awareness: Introduces economic and cultural aspects of a familiar treat STEM Links: Offers a foundation for lessons in botany (cacao tree), chemistry (chocolate making), and social studies (historical trade)