Crazy About Cats

Although I am a fan of photographs in non-fiction books, there is something very appealing about Owen’s stunning illustrations and their beauty which negates this concern completely. ‘Crazy About Cats’ begins with exploring the genus of cats, number of species and general diet and habitat of these amazing creatures before considering their evolution and the domesticity of the house cat. This could form the perfect starting point for work on classification, using examples before working scientifically and classifying creatures they might find closer to home. (Bonkers About Beetles might come in handy here!)

The diversity of cats in this book is wonderful, making the perfect starting point for further investigation, allowing children to compare and contrast how different cats species have adapted to their environments. The marbled cat (Pardofelis marmorata) caught my imagination - I’m ashamed to say I had never heard of it; I now know where it comes from and that it is the only species classified as ‘pardofelis’, having previously been thought to belong to the panthera lineage. Another species which leapt off the page at me was the ‘margay’. Sadly. both of these wonderful creatures are considered to be ‘near threatened’.

‘Crazy About Cats’ is packed full of fascinating, clear information, but I also love the fact that there is a section about cat mythology, touching on some of the stories told about cats through the ages. There are many writing opportunities which might come from this book as well- reports, persuasive, discussion as well as narrative.

The contents and index make it easy to navigate, but this is really one of those books that is best lingered over as something catches the eye. The book ends with information about the endangered status of many of our big cats and suggestions for how we can help.

Beautiful in content as well as quality, ‘Crazy About Cats’ is a fabulous book about felines which will captive and educate in equal measure.

Crazy About Cats Owen Davey

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1911171164

Obsessive About Octopuses

The latest in Owen Davey’s ‘About…’ series is every bit as delightful as the others. Each book looks in detail at one special creature and entices the reader in with its beautiful illustrations and fascinating facts. This series has proved very popular in our school library, with ‘Mad About Monkeys’ top of the list. I am sure this latest offering will be just as admired.

Colour is used to great advantage throughout the book, adding to the appeal. Octopuses tentacles wind their way across the pages, framing and bordering the text. There are plenty of side headings with little snippets of information on offer, making it easy to dip in and out of.

The text is packed with information, offering lots of details and facts. There are so many gems included here, all clearly explained, using scientific language where needed, making the book an absorbing read. The index gives the Latin names as well as the English, useful for Year 6 work on Linnaeus and his system of binomial nomenclature, as well as for locating information easily. The contents offers broader sections to entice the browser. My favourite section is the one on ‘Octopus Mythology’, which explores legends about these incredible creatures from different cultures.

A wonderfully tactile and beautifully illustrated book, ‘Obsessive About Octopuses’ is an excellent read. Another to add to the library.

Obsessive About Octopuses Owen Davey

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1912497195