NNFN2023: Evolution

Written in association with the Natural History Museum, ‘Evolution’ is the creation of ‘real life’ scientists, Sarah Darwin, great-great-granddaughter of Charles Darwin, and Eva Maria Sadowski. It is a completely engrossing read, supported by engaging illustrations and is the perfect text for supporting in Year 6 with the ‘Evolution and Inheritance’ strands of the science curriculum.

Each spread is packed with fascinating facts, starting with the work of Darwin and Wallace, but recognising and valuing the contributions of other ‘Pioneering People’. Concepts are clearly and concisely explained, with headings and sub-headings signposting readers to relevant sections. A comprehensive glossary explains some of the technical vocabulary used and there is a section which offers selected sources for each chapter, developing understanding of the research and fact checking which needs to be undertaken to write a book like this.

On pages which focus on a particular period, a timeline runs along the bottom of the page, allowing readers to locate when the events described in the text occurred. ‘Evolution’ really delivers an ‘exhilarating journey’, offering so much to discuss and enjoy!

Evolution

Sarah Darwin and Eva-Maria Sadowski, illustrated by Olga Baumert

What on Earth Books ISBN: 978-1912920532

NNFN2023: Everything You Know About Sharks is WRONG!

It’s day 17 of NNFN2023 with another treasure of a book for this year’s Wonderful Water theme.

Sharks fascinate people and have developed a fearsome reputation- but do they really deserve this? Having challenged readers to reconsider their assumptions about minibeasts and dinosaurs in their previous books, Dr Nick Crumpton and illustrator, Gavin Scott, turn their attention to setting the record straight and debunking many of the common myths about these magnificent creatures!

Each spread starts with the statement of a commonly held misconception about sharks which is then investigated- and proven wrong. Many believe that sharks kill lots of people; however, whilst sharks killed 11 people worldwide in 2021, snakes killed 50,000, cows killed 22 (just in the USA) and bees, wasps and hornets killed 62 people (in the USA). Each spread is packed with fascinating information about these amazing creatures who do not deserve their menacing reputation.

The book is beautifully presented from the embossed cover to the detailed artwork on every page. The tone of the writing is chatty and accessible, presented in easily-digested chunks and many illustrations have labels and/or close up sections to support and deepen understanding. A helpful glossary explains technical terms used within the text whilst the index makes it easy to locate specific information. Where there is an element of truth in a statement, this is expanded on and clarified.

An excellent addition to any bookshelf, ‘Everything You Know About Sharks is Wrong!’ is a thoroughly enjoyable and informative read.

Everything You Know About Sharks is Wrong!

Dr Nick Crumpton, illustrated by Gavin Scott

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839944512

NNFN2023 Bloggers’ Tour: Mission Arctic

I am delighted to be sharing ‘Mission: Arctic’ as part of the NNFN2023 Bloggers’ Tour, perfect for the Wonderful Water theme.

In September 2019, ‘Polarstern’, a powerful ice-breaker research vessel, set sail for the Arctic with MOSAiC, a team of more than five hundred scientists from across the world on board on the largest expedition to the Arctic ever undertaken. ‘Mission: Arctic’ is a completely fascinating read, following these researchers on their mission.

Divided into three parts-The Biggest Arctic Expedition of All Time, Climate Research on the Ice and Our Arctic, Our Future- the book is beautifully illustrated with a mixture of photographs, drawings, annotated diagrams and notes, making it an incredibly engaging and absorbing read. Technical terms are carefully explained both as they occur within the text and in a comprehensive glossary at the end, supporting the reader’s understanding of the mission and the scientists’ discoveries.

‘Mission: Arctic’ would make an excellent text for guided reading sessions, offering plenty to investigate and discuss whilst offering challenge and interest. The varied presentation of information and the exciting content are sure to inspire interest and encourage children to take up the challenge to help save the Arctic.

A thoroughly absorbing read!

Mission: Arctic A Scientific Adventure to a Changing North Pole

Katharina Weiss-Tuider, translated by Shelley Tanaka, illustrated by Christian Schneider

Greystone Kids ISBN: 978-1771649568

NNFN2023: What is philosophy?

Day 14 of NNFN2023 and today’s review is for something a little bit different! ‘What is philosophy?’ is the first in a series of books which seeks to explain ‘big’ ideas to young children. The first spread poses the question ‘What is philosophy?’, explaining how to pronounce it as well as offering a definition. The page then also serves as a contents page, asking some BIG questions and giving the number of the page where possible answers are offered.

Each spread is devoted to one of these questions, offering a range of possible answers. Many of the pictures show settings which little children are familiar with- the classroom, library, playground- making it easy for them to better relate to and understand each one.

Little ones love to ask endless questions, seeking answers to help them make sense of the world, the people and places in it, and this little book is full of questions with possible answers to help support them with this- and to help the adults in their lives who might not always feel they have the ‘right’ responses!

Little Book Big Idea: What is philosophy?

illustrated by Katie Rewse

Noodle Juice ISBN: 978-1915613004

NNFN2023: Kay’s Incredible Inventions

Day 13 of National Non-Fiction November 2023… so many fabulous books still to share!

Big, bold and full of fun, ‘Kay’s Incredible Inventions’ is endlessly entertaining! Divided into three sections- At Home, Out and About and Technology- the book is about ‘everything ever invented, from the daft to the disgusting to the downright dangerous.’- quite a claim!

Written in a light-hearted, chatty style accompanied by humorous illustrations, the book is very easy to read and very hard to put down. As you learn about Ruth Wakefield (the woman who invented chocolate chip cookies), Percy Shaw (catseyes) and Rosalind Franklin amongst many others, you are tempted by order forms for incredible inventions from Adam Kay Genuis (not my spelling mistake!) Enterprises Ltd for creations such as Spectacular Self-Washing Trousers or Glorious Get-Home Gloves! This would make an excellent festive present, sure to gather the whole family together to enjoy laughing, learning- and possibly inventing!

The tea break at our Non-Fiction Conference on Saturday was sponsored by this book and we set delegates the challenge of taking the most inventive pictures possible. Great fun was had by all!

Kay’s Incredible Inventions

Adam Kay, illustrated by Henry Paker

Puffin ISBN: 978-0241540787

NNFN2023: The Earth Book

It’s day 12 of National Non-Fiction November 2023!

A fascinating read, ‘The Earth Book’ is bursting with information about planet Earth. Divided into four sections- Physical Earth, Life on Earth, Earth Regions and the Human Planet, each spread is attractively illustrated, using earthy, muted tones in keeping with the topic.

This is a brilliant book for dipping in and out of - or ‘skipping and dipping’ as Nicola Davies called it. Attention might be caught be a title or an illustration, a side heading or a number on a picture, encouraging the reader to look more closely and read the relevant information, but the book might equally be devoured from cover to cover, absorbing the reader completely.

Many of the subjects looked at here are included in the geography and science curriculum at KS2, making this a useful text to support this learning. Although there is no index to support the location of specific information, it should be fairly easy to decide which of the four sections to turn to. Full of wonder, there is much to enjoy here!

The Earth Book

Jonathan Litton, illustrated by Thomas Hegbrook

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838914592

NNFN2023: Water

Perfect for NNFN2023, ‘Water: Protect Freshwater to Save Life on Earth’ is an accessible, engaging read. Starting with the first water on Earth, each spread is full of attractive illustrations and has a ‘Face the Facts’ section which presents information as bullet points.

The book is packed with fascinating facts, clearly explained, like the difference between blue and green water or that rivers power about 17% of the world’s electricity. Stressing the importance of water to life on Earth, the information here does not shy away from the problems caused by pollution and climate change. Freshwater habitats, which are home to many creatures, are drying up, millions of people lack access to clean water across the planet and although points on both side of this argument are presented, using water power can cause damage to the natural world.

However, the book ends on a positive note, giving the reader ideas for how they can take action and use water wisely. Simple wells and taps are bringing clean water to villages in sub-Saharan Africa which gives girls a chance to go to school and women the chance to work, using rainwater to water plants, joining river clean-ups…lots of positive steps which are being, and can be, taken are highlighted and information about ‘Water Action Decade’ is included at the end of the book, inspiring readers to investigate further. This is a wonderful book which clearly and calmly encourages readers to consider the role played by water in our lives.

Water: Protect Freshwater to Save Life on Earth

Catherine Barr, illustrated by Christiane Engel

Otter-Barry ISBN: 978-1913074463

NNFN2023: A Jungle in Your Living Room

‘A Jungle in Your Living Room’ is a beautifully illustrated, highly engaging book, sure to inspire everyone to transform their homes into lush, verdant space. Divided into three sections- All About Houseplants, The World of Houseplants and Houseplant Care -it offers excellent advice and guidance for anyone who wishes to create, and care for, their own indoor garden.

The first section starts by defining what is meant by a house plant and looks at how plants are classified before considering the best places to grow them. There is also plenty of fascinating background and historical information, including the creation of the ‘Wardian Case’, a portable greenhouse which allowed plants to be safely transported and the role this then played as ‘houseplant hunters’ travelled around the world to collect specimens, often causing damage to the local environment.

The section entitled ‘The World of Houseplants’ is the longest one, introducing a wonderful range of plants. Not only are explanations of the different types given, but care tips, historical facts, links to religions and traditional usages are also explored. These pages are interspersed with DIY ideas such as a desert garden, a macrame plant hanger and how to grow a bonsai tree. Perfect for engaging and challenging young and old alike, there are some really interesting and rewarding ideas, supported by clear instructions.

‘Houseplant Care’ is, as the title suggests, a very useful section concerned with making sure the plants are kept in top condition. Advice on what to look for when choosing a plant, pet safety and identifying problems is all given in clear, concise points, ensuring success. Propagation is also carefully explained with DIY projects on water propagation and making leaf cuttings. A guide is given to support readers in selecting plants appropriate to their level of experience and expertise and a comprehensive glossary explains many of the terms used in the book. Clear contents and index pages make the book easy to navigate and locate specific information- but this is a wonderful book for dipping in and out of and browsing to discover something new!

Although a very practical guide, there is much here which supports sections of the primary science curriculum and does much to enrich and enliven it. Colourful, playful illustrations add much to the book’s charm, making this a must have for home and school.

A Jungle in Your Living Room: A Guide to Creating Your Own Houseplant Collection

Michael Holland, illustrated by Philip Giordano

Flying Eye ISBN: 978-1838748630

Flying Eye produce many gorgeous information books. You can read my review of ‘Bonkers About Beetles’ here, which has links to reviews of ‘Passionate About Penguins’, ‘Fanatical About Frogs’, ‘Crazy About Cats’ and ‘Obsessive About Octopuses’. You can read my review of ‘Curious Creatures Talking Together’ here which has a link to ‘Curious Creatures Working With Tools’, ‘Please Don’t Bite Me’ here, ‘Scientists in the World: Galapagos’ here and ‘Earth’s Incredible Places: Amazon River’ here which has links to reviews of other books in the series.

NNFN2023: Sharks! Sharks! Sharks!

Day 8 of NNFN2023 and we’re back with the ‘Wonderful Water’ theme!

Bright, attractive and eye-catching, ‘Sharks! Sharks! Sharks!’ is sure to be a hit with readers young and old! Starting by defining what is meant by a shark, a carefully labelled diagram identifies the different body parts, offering information in easily-digested chunks.

Different types of sharks, their ‘superpowers’, feeding habits habitats and life cycle are all explored, offering plenty of fascinating facts, all very attractively presented and clearly explained. Myths about these incredible creatures are dispelled as the author seeks to deepen the readers understanding of their behaviour.

A glossary of ‘special shark words’ both supports and develops understanding of some of the technical vocabulary found in the book. Although the text is perfect for dipping in and out of as it offers plenty of eye-catching, tantalising facts to pause over, the book is sure to be absorbed from cover to cover by the shark-loving - and returned to repeatedly!

Sharks! Sharks! Sharks!

Susan Martineau, illustrated by Vicky Barker

bsmall ISBN: 978-1913918729

You can read my review of ‘Real-Life Mysteries’ here and ‘Real-Life Disasters’ here.

NNFN2023: Boats! (and other things that float)

Perfect for introducing young readers to the world of boats, ‘Boats! (and other things that float) is an engaging and informative book. Each spread focuses on a different type of watercraft, fully illustrated and with plenty of details to spot on every page.

The range of boats - and other things that float- covered is impressive. Starting with a look at the different types of sails which are used, the parts of a boat are explained, using a carefully labelled diagram. Key words are given in bold, but used in a sentence which explains the meaning to the reader, perfect for supporting comprehension.

Information is presented in small sections, making it an accessible read, and appealing illustrations encourage the reader to look closely and notice details. From fishing boats to dragon boats, from submarines to pedalos, there is something here to interest everyone. The book ends with ten fun floating facts and a spread encouraging the reader to look for things to spot throughout the book.

Perfect for this year’s NNFN theme, Wonderful Water, ‘Boats! (and other things that float) is a book to be enjoyed time and time again!

Boats! (and other things that float)

Maria Brzozowska

Welbeck Publishing ISBN: 9781783128358

NNFN2023: Home

Day 6 of NNFN2023! Today’s review shows how information can be delivered through poetic text and stunning illustrations, offering a very different experience to a ‘traditional’ non-fiction book.

Each creature’s home is captured through beautiful illustrations and nestled amongst these is a poetic reflection on how and where it is created. Much factual information is contained in these words which could easily become the starting point for further research and investigation. ‘Mossy Miniature Home’, for example, describes the home of the hummingbird and the reader learns about the size, composition and location of the nest as well as the number and size of its eggs.

The book covers a wide range of creatures from the less well-known such as the European fan worm or the foam-nest tree frog to the more familiar like the harvest mouse and the Sumatran orangutan. How each these skilful creatures create, decorate and build their homes is incredible, but the book also underlines the common need for somewhere safe to call home.

Home

Isabelle Simler, translated by Vineet Lal

Wide Eyed Editions ISBN: 978-0711287099

NNFN2023: Chews Your Own Tasty Adventure

Day five of National Non-Fiction November 2023 and we’re cooking on gas!

There are cookery books for children - and then there is this cookery book! ‘Chews Your Own Tasty Adventure’ is a highly engaging, creative approach to cooking and baking which allows the reader to choose (or chews!) their own culinary adventure.

My son used to love the ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ series when he was younger which called upon the reader to make decisions at key points of the story, giving him a sense of involvement. This cookery book works along similar lines, challenging the reader to take make choices which will alter the final dish! The book starts by introducing the ingredients used in the book, starting with flour. Having offered a bit of historical background, a fun fact or two and a little rhyme about each, the reader is then asked to either make a choice- hot or cold, sweet or savoury- or at a point where they have all the required ingredients, to head to a recipe.

There are sweet and savoury treats included here, each a vegetarian recipe. A short introduction offers a little background information- perhaps how to pronounce a name, a little about their origin and the ingredients, all building a young cook’s knowledge of the ingredients and recipes they are using and encouraging them to engage with food, have fun with cooking and enjoy the experience. There are tips and bonus recipes to discover along the way and at the end of each recipe are are page numbers for the reader to choose the final element of their recipe!

A comprehensive glossary, an index of recipes and a recipe index (covering the ingredients) make this a very user-friendly book as well as something exciting and different- a great gift to give- not just for a child, but for a whole family to explore and share. The use of fun, bright illustrations is another stroke of genius as the usual photographs of unattainable perfection in a cookery book can be really off-putting!

A really fun and engaging way of encouraging an interest in, knowledge and enjoyment of the food we eat, ‘Chews Your Own Tasty Adventure’ is a real winner!

Chews Your Own Tasty Adventure

Dr Sai Pathmanathan, illustrated by Lucia Vinti

Faber ISBN: 978-0571370641

You can read more from Dr Sai Pathmanathan in the piece she wrote as part of the NNFN2023 celebrations on the FCBG website.

NNFN2023: Let’s Play

The importance of play, both free and imaginative and guided, cannot be underestimated - and yet, it seems to be something on the decline. Developing teamwork, independence, resilience, empathy… there are so many reasons why it should be encouraged and this fabulous book is perfect for home or school.

The fact that these games are taken from across the world only adds to its appeal. Some may be familiar or a twist on those already known whilst others might be completely new. Each game is carefully explained with step-by-step instructions and illustrations. Some are for playing independently, others for playing with friends- all could be adapted with a little imagination! Extra challenges and suggestions are also included, extending the fun. Children can be encouraged to look at a map of the world to locate the country of origin for the game, making connections and realising how much people have in common!

This is a brilliant resource, not only for home, but also school. Encouraging dinner staff as well as anyone on playground duty to organise a few games is always a brilliant thing to do, making playtimes more enjoyable for the staff on duty as well as engaging children. There are activities here which could also be used during wet playtimes or indoor play. A spread at the end of the book encourages children to think about developing their own games.

A brilliant, inspiring book!

Let’s Play!

Nancy Dickmann, illustrated by Monica Andino

Words and Pictures ISBN: 978-0711283756

NNFN2023: Human 2.0

Day three of National Non-Fiction November 2023!

Celebrating the almost unbelievable achievements which have been made in medical engineering, ‘Human 2.0’ is a completely fascinating read! It presents this complex subject clearly, from the first prostheses to future possibilities.

The developments are interspersed with the real-life stories of people who have benefitted from them. Claire Lomas, foe example, became the first person to finish the London Marathon using a ReWalk exoskeleton whereas Keith Hayman became one of the first people in the UK to receive the Argus II Bionic Eye. Each development is clearly described with technical vocabulary carefully explained. But the book also poses the question, ‘How far are we willing to go?’, considering the risks and rewards as technology moves ever onwards.

Author, Patrick Kane, is a triple amputee and became the youngest person to be fitted with a bionic arm. He has created an absorbing text, enlightening readers on this topic and no doubt inspiring them to find out more and perhaps to investigate a career in this field. Attractive illustrations add to the book’s appeal, making it a book which will be returned to and re-read!

Human 2.0

Patrick Kane, illustrated by Samuel Rodriguez

Big Picture Press ISBN: 978-1800781689

NNFN2023: The Story of Conservation

Long ago, our planet was blanketed with dark forests, dripping rainforests, frozen deserts, mighty mountains, sun-baked grasslands and rich blue seas.

Called ‘The Story of Conservation’ for good reason, this lovely book explains the changes in the human relationship with the planet and how we have come to better understand our relationship with, and responsibility for, our planet. Clearly written in accessible language, the text does indeed tell a story, which, although not shying away from the damage being done, ends on a note of hope for the future.

Laid out chronologically with the date clearly shown on each spread, the story moves from prehistory to the present day. Throughout the book, respect is shown for Indigenous peoples, living in traditional ways and keeping in harmony with nature, who were often moved from their lands to make way for ‘development’ and even for conservation when Yellowstone became the world’s first national park. The book also celebrates actions being taken by local communities- those in Japan which blocked coal-fired power stations which polluted the environment, those in Ghana which keep snails, rabbits and bees instead of hunting, those in Oslo who have created bee-friendly gardens- offering inspiration for those reading the book.

The glossary at the end of the book is perfect for supporting children’s understanding of the terms used in the book. This attractive and informative book is perfect for reading multiple times, allowing children to take something more from it with each read.

The Story of Conservation: A First Book About Protecting Nature

Catherine Barr and Steve Williams, illustrated by Amy Husband

Frances Lincoln ISBN: 978-0711278035

‘The Secret Life of Oceans’ written by Moira Butterfield is a perfect book for this year’s Wonderful Water theme and a guest post by Moira is being shared on the FCBG blog today. As well as celebrating life in ocean, it also shares some watery traditional tales from around the world.

The Secret Life of Oceans

Moira Butterfield, illustrated by Vivian Mineker

Happy Yak ISBN: 978-0711278691

You can read my review of ‘A Turtle’s View of the Ocean Blue’ by Catherine here and ‘The Secret Life of Bees by Moira here.

NNFN2023: Celebrate

Today kicks off a month of non-fiction reviews to celebrate National Non-Fiction November! There are so many fantastic information books on offer that it has been very hard to choose, but here we go!

‘Celebrate!’ from Nosy Crow and the British Museum is a joyful book, offering an introduction to 50 festivals from around the world. The bright red cover with its tumbling letters just invites readers to discover more about the little illustrations surrounding the title.

In terms of traditional non-fiction text features, the book has an excellent contents page which organises the festivals into those which are Worldwide and then by continent, a clear glossary and a comprehensive index, making it easy to locate information quickly and with ease. As it says in the introduction, ‘It would be impossible to include every festival from around the world…’, but the author, Laura Mucha, has done an amazing job of including a very diverse and fascinating range, making this book a joy from start to finish!

Each festival is given two pages, bursting with appealing illustrations which reflect the spirit of the occasion. The date and location of each festival is given and information is presented in accessible chunks, spread across the pages with an explanation of why and how celebrations take place. Touches of humour are added through speech bubbles and the pictures where appropriate.

I learned so much from reading this book and would happily add it to any school, class or home library, confident that children would both enjoy it and gain much from it. Beautifully presented, it is a real celebration of celebrations- a lovely gift!

Celebrate!

Laura Mucha, illustrated by Hannah Tolson

Nosy Crow and the British Museum ISBN: 978-1839940415

You can read my review of ‘Welcome to Our Table’ here- another book from Nosy Crow which celebrates the diversity of food around the world- and the 2023 Nature Month-by Month: A Children’s Almanac here, a lovely book which guides you through the year!

Blog Tour: How to Chat Chicken

With the help of this book, you can become like Dr Doolittle and talk with the animals-gossip gorilla, babble bee, gab gecko or chat chicken as the fancy takes you!

The lively introduction from author, Dr Nick Crumpton, sets the tone for the book perfectly, encouraging readers to listen to, and observe, their pets and other animals carefully so that they can communicate with them.

Six sections- Prattling with Primates, Noisy Neighbours, Murmuring Minibeasts, Commotion in the Ocean, Wild Words and Wild on the Wing- are bursting with descriptions of how creatures communicate. Cats use chirruping noises when they are excited, croaking gourami fish make frog-like sounds to attract a potential partner and adult crows use a cooing noise to calm their young. It’s a fascinating read and sure to have everyone attempting to chat to the animals around them- and sharing their new found knowledge with anyone who will listen! A wonderful range of creatures is covered with careful explanations, not shying away from the use of technical vocabulary such as stridulation and pheromones which is explained in the glossary. The book also considers how some animals communicate in other ways, such as by the use of smell- and even the use of dialects in some species.

The bright, cartoon-style illustrations are very appealing and easy to dip in and out of. An index makes it easy to locate specific animals, but it is very easy to find yourself reading this one from cover to cover! As National Non-Fiction November approaches (but also at any time of the year!), it is great to remember that there are all styles of information texts to appeal to all styles of readers of all ages. There is as much to engage the 70 year old as the 7 year old here! Any book which encourages children (or any reader!) to really understand their fellow creatures and develop a sense of empathy and understanding can only be a good one!

How to Chat Chicken

Dr Nick Crumpton, illustrated by Adrienne Barman

What On Earth Books ISBN: 978-1804660423

Make sure you take a look at the rest of the stops on the Blog Tour! Many thanks to What on Earth for inviting me to be part it!

Drawn to Change the World

It is more important than ever to use our voices and our strengths and join as communities to make change, even when those in power don’t want us to do so.

In her introduction to this fascinating book, Emma Reynolds explains why she decided to write this book, as a celebration of those who are striving for change and as inspiration for others who might follow their example. Her words set the scene perfectly for the stories of the sixteen youth activists from around the world included in the book, each beautifully illustrated by sixteen different artists.

An introduction offers an overview of the climate change crisis. I learned a great deal from this section, part of which is written by Matthew Shribman, cofounder of AimHi Earth. Key factors, like carbon sinks are carefully explained and the impact of climate change on the most vulnerable highlighted.

Each graphic story is introduced by a map showing where in the world the subject lives, who the story is about and who illustrated it. The stories are powerfully told, vividly sharing the individual’s concerns and the actions that they took to change things for the better for their community. For example, Autumn Peltier’s fight for clean water for her people is truly inspiring- and the treatment of First Nation communities shocking. The ‘What are they doing now’ section at the end of each section allows the reader to discover more about each individual, including where to find them on social media. The graphic format makes each story very accessible and the different illustrative styles offers pleasing variety.

This is such an impressive, inspiring collection of individuals, who are so courageous and dedicated to their beliefs, that it makes a very enjoyable as well as informative read. Highly recommended!

Drawn to Change the World

Emma Reynolds

HarperAlley ISBN: 978-0063084216

History Factopia!

The Factopia! series is excellent fun, connecting a whole host of facts in fantastic- and often unexpected- ways! By following ‘ye olde trail of 400 facts’, readers will discover so many things about the history of the world.

There are so many ways to enjoy the book, making it incredibly accessible and readable. Some will be tempted to read it from cover to cover, fascinated by the bright illustrations and snippets of information. Others will follow the trails laid from one page to another, unearthing the link between a louchaun and Fasil Ghebbi or a cat-sith and the oldest known ghost story.

Light-hearted in tone, these books are perfect for sharing and children are sure to enjoy fact swapping as they discover the weird and wonderful, trivial and tantalising, gross and gripping facts about history they never knew they needed to know!

History Factopia!

Paige Towler, illustrated by Andy Smith

Britannica ISBN: 978-1804660409

You can read my review of Animal Factopia! here and Gross Factopia! here

A World of Dogs

This beautifully illustrated book would make the perfect gift for any dog lover. Carlie Sorosiak’s passion for pooches is evident on every page as she shares a wealth of fascinating facts and amazing tales (or should that be tails!) about our canine companions.

Having unwittingly adopted an American Dingo, Carlie set out to find out as much as she could about her new pet so that she could properly care for her- and this sets the tone for the whole book. There is so much respect and care shown for dogs in this book- so much to learn- that is it sure to be as fascinating for those who know little about dogs as it is for those who share their lives with them. Having grown up with Retrievers- Flat Coats and Goldies- I read the whole book from cover to cover, frequently exclaiming or pausing to bore my husband with anecdotes sparked by the information and stories contained here.

As well as explaining how dogs have come to be loyal human companions and explaining how their doggy senses work, the book includes real-life stories about the bravery and devotion of heroic dogs and the many ways in which they support humans every day. Each spread is beautifully illustrated, and the information clearly presented in easily digested sections of text. A comprehensive index and glossary make the book very easy to use for research as well as an excellent text to be read for pleasure!

A World of Dogs

Carlie Sorosiak, illustrated by Luisa Uribe

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839948497

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.

You can read my review of ‘I, Cosmo’ here and here.