Treasure Hunter's Handbook

Book excerpt: Following her successful Fairy House Handbook and Fairy Garden Handbook, Liza Gardner Walsh offers another concept book to get children outside and experiencing nature. The Treasure Hunter’s Handbook targets kids and families who love to explore the world around them. This book highlights the appeal of treasure hunting as a fun family activity that encourages kids to get outside. The following topics are covered, allowing for a wide range of activities for different ages and interests: Myths and legends of buried pirate treasure: Share stories such as Captain Kidd’s loot on Jewell Island and Pirate Ned Lowe’s treasure captured from a Spanish galleon and dropped in the middle of the pond on Pond Island. Panning for gold: Panning for gold is making a comeback and is a great activity for kids. Mining for minerals and gemstones: Provides some information about how and where to find Maine's famous tourmaline and other gems. Metal Detecting: Covers the basics of using a metal detector and tells some of the stories of amazing treasure found using this simple device. Map and compass reading: Every child should learn these basic skills and this section will explain the basics of cartography and orienteering. Geocaching and letter boxing: Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting activity using GPS-enabled devices. Letter boxing is a low tech version that combines navigational skills and rubber stamp artistry. Found treasures: Hunting for everyday treasures such as sea glass, sea shells, four-leaf clovers, arrowheads, and fossils.