Wow, this is really impressive! It reminds me of the detailed plastic models that my dad and brothers would build when I was a child. My son wanted to learn more about old sailing ships, from watching pirate movies. And who am I to stand in the way of learning? So that’s why I go this book! Unlike plastic models, it includes every part of the exterior as a separate piece — names included.

It uses thick cardstock, printed on in color, much of which needs to be cut out with a utility knife. I let my son use my cutting mat, and gave him two thimbles to hold the paper down with that hand while cutting with the other. He hasn’t finished it yet, but he already seems to know the names of all the different parts of the ships, and their functions. He’s fascinated, learning lots, have a grand time, and the model itself is coming along nicely. Great gift, too!