This Is Munich: A Children's Classic

This is...

by Miroslav Sasek

Like the other Sasek classics, This is Munich is a facsimile edition of his original book, which was first published in 1969. The brilliant illustrations have been meticulously preserved and facts updated for the twenty-first century. The charming illustrations coupled with Sasek’s playful narrative make for a perfect souvenir that will delight both children and parents.    

Sasek introduces children—and many adults alike—to the ancient Bavarian capital. Stops include the New Town Hall, the Frauenkirche cathedral, and Munich’s most famous beer hall.

With bright pictures and snappy commentary, Sasek wittily captures all the fascinating things to do and see in this German seat of culture— This is Munich! 

Genres: Picture Books, Travel, Nonfiction, Childrens, Geography, Germany, History

64 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1961

About the author

Miroslav Sasek (born Miroslav Šašek) (1916-1980) was an author and illustrator from the Czech Republic. He is best known for a series of books for children titled This Is...

Reviews

[Alice · Rating 4 out of 5]

I speak a title bit of German, I have spent the night in Frankfurt, I have friends who have lived in Munich, and so this was a fun ride for me!! Bavaria, Oktoberfest, all good fun! I would love to go Munich and to Neuschwanstein Castle (though not mentioned in the book is about a 2 hour drive from Munich and is what the Disney castle is modeled after!)

I had to remind myself where Munich fit in the whole East/West Germany, but Munich was part of West Germany therefor a hot tourist spot in 1960s! Let go!!

[Benjamin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a cute little book with fun illustrations.

[Sarah Sammis · Rating 5 out of 5]

As with most of the books I've read so far, I read a reissue. This one was reprinted with an appendix of changes in 2012. Of the books I've read so far, this one felt the most dated.

The one big detail that popped out for me were the shear number of horse drawn carts of various types, including sand wagons on snowy days, and ice wagons during Oktoberfest. Another interesting detail was the library train, since replaced by a bookmobile.

[Rosemary Daly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sasek's collection of "This is..." books are wonderful - and suitable for all ages. I first got hooked on "This is Rome" many years ago as a child. These are great books for teaching literacy to adults and ESOL students. Filled with delightful pictures and facts about each location, it is an excellent resource.

[Ashley Plocha · Rating 5 out of 5]

We love this book! A perfect primer for all things Munich. My son loves the fun illustrations, and my Bavarian mother-in-law enjoyed seeing all the places she remembered visiting regularly as a child!

[Hans · Rating 4 out of 5]

Certified classic series. Picked this one up for the nephew. The book is definitely beyond his reading comprehension at this point, but something to have around until he makes his first trip to Munich in the years ahead.

[Trish · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is about Munich. It would be a fun city to visit.

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful little book, an amazing if you can still find a copy in good condition. It is similar to the This Is Munich book, but this one is more special because everything is written in both German and English.

[DeNae · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really enjoyed This is Venice by the same author, but this book felt more fragmented and choppy. It is still fun to point out these cities on a map and take a literary stroll through the streets of the major cities of our world.

[Jarrod · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding! Makes me want to go back for another visit