"Introductory books on wargaming and miniatures." Topic

My son turns eight next month and I'm thinking of slipping some miniatures wargaming propaganda in amongst the pile.

I'm thinking of something like a big glossy book, lots of pictures of beautifully painted miniatures, inspiring dioramas, some historical content (famous battles, campaigns etc.)would be good.

If the Gentlemen of the Collective could recommend some suitable books to help me recruit my boy to the ranks I'd be much obliged!

Henry Hyde, editor of Battlegames Magazine, wrote exactly the book you need. It's called the Wargaming Compendium and has just been released in a paperback version and it's bloody marvelous.

thewargamingcompendium.com

Might I suggest something like Neil Thomas's One Hour Wargames, which has simple rules and scenarios that you and your son could easily set up at minimal cost/effort.

The Compendium is a great book, but the 18th century rules therein are rather too detailed and complex for such a young gamer – something to consider when he's a bit older if he shows interest.

I would go for a book with a variety of simple, playable rules and scenarios, rather than one that portrays high quality painting and diorama-standard terrain that your son will not easily be able to achieve. Focus on playing the game instead.

"Big Battles for Little Hands" is a great book for introducing kids to wargaming. While not perhaps the glossy eye-candy book you mention, it has great chapters on gaming basics and tactics written for children, as well as kid friendly rules.

link

Have you seen Rivet Wars? WW1 style board game with minis. My boy loves it. Once he's into it, you could talk about the real history behind it.
Otherwise memoir 44 is another good intro game. WW2, tanks, artillery and infantry.
If you want good art and minis that appeal to the average 8 year old you're talking GW, which may not be what you are aiming for.

Thank you for your thoughts.

One of the GW intro boxes seems like the right thing to buy.

But why would a wargamer have to resort to a book to recruit his own son? Can't you just show him the table with all the toys and let him participate?