Most history books for children focus on people, places, and events. In a different approach, some authors focus on an object--an everyday item that might be ignored when it comes to writing history. They shine a spotlight on the item, and in the process, they add insight and interest to human history. This article looks at four outstanding books for young readers in which an ordinary, everyday object takes center stage. Here, the author discusses the four books, namely: (1) "Looking at Glass Through the Ages" by Bruce Koscielniak; (2) "From Rags to Riches: A History of Girls' Clothing in America" by Leslie Sills; (3) "The Cod's Tale" by Mark Kurlansky; and (4) "The Life and Times of the Peanut" by Charles Miccucci. Strategies for teachers to use when discussing and analyzing these books with their students are discussed. (Contains 3 figures and 6 notes.)