Over the Rainbow

Everyone loves seeing a rainbow, arcing through the sky, and this lovely book encapsulates all the magic and joy of this sight, from the science behind it to the symbolism connected with it! Organised into five sections-The Science of Rainbows, Rare Rainbows, Rainbow Myths and Legends, Rainbows in the Arts and The Symbol of the Rainbow- a broad spectrum of information is covered with a clear contents, a glossary of terms and index to help the reader easily locate and understand everything included.

The book begins by offering ‘a close look at light’, using this as the basis to explain how rainbows are formed. Diagrams help to support the text and illustrate the facts as each idea is developed. Early thinkers from across the world are included, showing how human understanding of rainbows progressed and advanced to Newton’s experiments with prisms in 1666. Unusual rainbow formations are introduced and explained as well, making fascinating reading!

My favourite section is that which looks at the myths and legends connected with rainbows. Beautiful illustrations by Wenjia Tang capture moments from these stories whilst additional snippets of information are scattered throughout. The chapter devoted to the arts is also very interesting; however, it is a shame no poetry has been referenced! The book ends with how the rainbow has been used as a symbol in stories and society.

An excellent book for reading cover to cover, for browsing at leisure or for using as a tool for research, ‘Over the Rainbow’ would be a brilliant addition to any library or bookshelf!

Over the Rainbow: The Science, Magic and Meaning of Rainbows

Rachael Davis, illustrated by Wenjia Tang

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838740870