From Rocks to Rockets: Arms and Armies through the Ages

by William Gilkerson

William Gilkerson takes the broad, sweeping history of the human race and puts it in story and pictures that are at once meaningful, sometimes profound, and always funny. His pen takes us from cave men with rocks, to modern bombs and rockets, and depicts the chaos throughout. First published in 1963, we are delighted to bring this amusing and glorious look at arms and armies through the ages to a new audience. There are laughs on every page, but also wry, though provoking observations, all expressed through Gilkerson’s wonderfully detailed drawings which will enthrall readers of all ages. A book to read and enjoy, and then share with friends.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Humor, Military Fiction, War

64 pages, Hardcover

First published October 21, 2008

Reviews

[Bob Cantrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very short book with very little text. However that doesn't make it a snap read. There is a lot to think about here. I finished in in one hour not because I am a slow reader but to think about what was being said and drawn. Now I should say that this book was originally written back in the Sixties and doesn't cover our more recent endeavors at killing each other but it does make a point to me that as we become more civilized the more highly evolved become our methods of killing in war. I have to say it is well worth the read.

[Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

The humorous illustrations make this book fun.

[Richard Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful book looking at the progress (?) through history of man finding better ways to kill himself. Although it can be read quickly, one must take time to peruse and ponder the delightfully humorous illustrations. In many cases, Gilkerson makes one aware of Shakespeare's "hoist with one's own petard." (Look for it.) The final two pages raise interesting questions.

[Adam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brilliant, a keeper, a book to be re-read and lingered over. A must-have for mid- and late-elementary school aged boys. A sometimes tongue-in-cheek history of warfare. Gorgeously illustrated with lots of tiny, hazard-prone figures.

[Deborah Cleaves · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun book.