Reviews
There are so many incredible books available at the moment that it is impossible to read them all, no matter how hard I try! Here are my thoughts about some of the books I have read and how I think they could be used in school as well as Q and A sessions with authors and illustrators.
Beautiful: A Celebration of Evolution
Illustrated throughout with stunning watercolours, ‘Beautiful’ is a very special book. The author sets out to show that ‘in nature, the word ugly simply does not apply’ as adaptation and evolution have have created incredible, unique creatures, each of which is beautiful.
A wonderful array of creatures are presented in alphabetical order, starting with the Aldabra Giant Tortoise and ending with the Wild Boar. Some of these entries are not the typical ‘cute and cuddly’ animals often featured in books, but each is held up as something to be admired and appreciated by the author.
Each spread offers beautiful illustrations, its binomial nomenclature and a wealth of information. Not only is the creature described, but details about how it has adapted are given. The Indian pangolin’s tongue, for example, has evolved to be longer than the creatures head and body combined and is connected to the bottom of the ribcage. The shoebill has adapted to survive in the dangerous swamps of easter Africa; a very aggressive creature, it uses its huge beak with a hooked end for spearing its prey. One of my favourite animals, the duck-billed platypus, can detect its prey through picking up tiny electric pulses from other animals, using special nerve cells in its bill. Sadly, the author notes where these creatures are endangered or their at risk from climate change and habitat destruction.
Completely fascinating, this book would add much to the knowledge and understanding of those studying evolution and adaptation as part of the Science Curriculum both in Y6 and in KS3. Each entry supports the statement: ‘Pupils should be taught to identify how animals and plants are adapted to suit their environment in different ways and that adaptation may lead to evolution’ in a meaningful and engaging way, whilst developing a respect for, and understanding of, these incredible creatures.
A very special, very beautiful book!
Beautiful: A Celebration of Evolution
William Spring
Big Picture Press ISBN: 978-1800786165
Published 1st August 2024
Brainy about Bears
This is the ninth title in Owen Davey’s incredibly popular ‘About Animals’ series. ‘Brainy about Bears’ offers the same appealing style of illustration and wealth of information readers have come accustomed to in these books.
The book starts by defining what a bear is before offering an overview of the species and subspecies around the world. Following pages are devoted to their diet, habitat, how they move and how they have adapted to survive. Side headings help to break the information into easily digested chunks and each spread is highly illustrated. An index at the end of the book enables readers to locate information about specific bears as well as offering their binomial classifications.
Traditionally in this series there is a section about some of the mythology connected to the titular creature and this is no exception. Here, the reader is introduced to Ukuku, half-human, half-bear tricksters from the Peruvian Andes, Ursa Major, Berserkers and Ungnyeo, the bear woman of a creation myth from Korea.
The book concludes with thoughts about the conservation and protection of bears in different parts of the world, calling Giant Pandas and polar bears ‘poster animals for the effects of climate change’.
A bear-illiant addition to the series!
Brainy about Bears
Owen Davey
Flying Eye ISBN: 978-1838741617
An Invitation to the Botanic Gardens
In this lovely book, readers are offered VIP access to the Botanic Gardens in Kew. From the ticket office to the ‘exit through the gift shop’, the book shares a wealth of information about the scientists, gardeners, horticulturalists, designers and explainers (amongst others!) who work so hard to keep this magical place full of healthy plants and happy visitors.
Perfect for sharing in preparation for a visit to the Gardens as well as reliving memories afterwards, ‘An Invitation to…’ is bursting with specific information about the Botanic Gardens. Different locations within the site are carefully explored, supported by wonderful illustrations. Three gateway folds allow the reader to feel as if they are entering different areas, exploring them with the visitors depicted enjoying them. For those who have never been there (and might never be lucky enough to go) it offers a glimpse of the wonders of the place and its plants and the dedication of those who work to maintain it. However, this is not just a book to link to a visit to the gardens.
Explanations are given for key vocabulary like pollination and germination whilst the work done at Kew gardens can be related to any garden which encourages nature to thrive. Children may be inspired to cultivate their own ‘conservation meadow’ or kitchen garden to grow their own vegetables. They can find out about some of the different carnivorous plants which are kept there as well as the important role of the seed bank.
A really beautiful book sharing the amazing work which goes on at a very special location, ‘An Invitation to the Botanic Gardens is one not to miss!
An Invitation to the Botanic Gardens
Charlotte Guillain, illustrated by Helen Shoesmith
Hachette in partnership with the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew ISBN: 978-1803381060
Beasts from the Deep
Beautifully presented, ‘Beasts from the Deep’ offers a fascinating and absorbing look at the mysterious creatures which inhabit the depths of the ocean.
The introduction carefully explains that there is much that is unknown about the deep sea, ‘a vast environment that despite near-freezing temperatures, crushing water pressure and total darkness’ is home to many creatures which have adapted to live there. From here, the author goes on to explain the ocean’s layers from the sunlight zone through the Twilight, Midnight and Abyssal Zones down to the Hadal Zone. The illustration here is quite something with the sparsely populated, inky-black Hadal Zone still managing to hint at the mysteries it might hold!
Starting with the Twilight Zone, the book then explores each layer in more detail, looking at some of the creatures which live there and how they have adapted to survive in their environment, making it a fascinating text to support the Y6 work on evolution and inheritance in science. The fangtooth, for example, which inhabits the Midnight Zone, has evolved to have a large mouth lined with really long teeth whilst Atolla jellyfish are perfectly adapted to live at this level.
On each page, the text is presented in small chunks, offering plenty of information, using subject specific vocabulary (a comprehensive glossary is included at the end of the book), encouraging the reader to develop their understanding of this fascinating environment and the ‘beasts’ which live there. I learned so much from reading this!
Beasts from the Deep
Matt Ralphs, illustrated by Kaley McKean
Nosy Crow with the University of Cambridge ISBN: 978-1839943348
Published 6th June
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
Solstice
Using solstice celebrations to take the reader on a journey around the world, this lovely book introduces fourteen fictional children from fourteen different locations as they experience the summer solstice. Whilst those living in the top half of the world have the longest day of the year, those in the bottom half experience the shortest, offering a fantastic snapshot of life around the Earth.
‘Solstice’ is a joy to read. Taken on a trip around the world, the reader is invited to share the daily lives of each child and discover, not only what happens on the solstice, but also something of the similarities and differences of those living in different locations. Each chapter starts with a map of the world showing where the child lives, the hours of sunlight on the 21st June and the average temperature range in addition to a small glossary featuring a selection of vocabulary with definitions used in the following text.
Each child then recounts their day, sharing cultural details about traditions and festivals as well as things about their daily routine. Kjersti from Svalbard, for example, comments on how normal it is for her that the sun doesn’t set and that she can sometimes see polar bears from her windows whilst for Bahasa, living in a city on the equator, the day is the same length all year round. Each section is illustrated by an artist with a connection to that country, making for a pleasing range of styles throughout the book. A section at the end of the book shows photos of each illustrator and offers a short autobiography. There is also a glossary of terms for the book as a whole and an index, making it easy to locate relevant information.
An excellent text to support the science and geography curriculum, ‘Solstice’ is also perfect for browsing at leisure.
Solstice: Around the World on the Longest, Shortest Day.
Jen Breach, illustrated by 14 global artists
What on Earth ISBN: 978-1913750770
Dinosaurs! Dinosaurs! Dinosaurs!
My son, like many young children, was completely fascinated by dinosaurs and we had an extensive collection of books on the subject! However, I am sure that had this book been around then, it would quickly have become one of his favourites.
A clear contents page allows the reader to quickly locate information which interests them, but the book is perfect for browsing and discovering pages of interest. Each spread is well presented with illustrations and facts working together to make the information as accessible as possible.
Starting with an explanation of what dinosaurs were and when they lived, the book defines the different periods clearly before moving on to answering questions about their size and diet before honing in on specific dinosaurs like Tyrannosaurus Rex and Deinonychus. Dinosaurs which lived in the sea and those which flew are also covered.
The book explains how fossils developed and how palaeontologists work like detectives to learn more about these fascinating creatures. The book concludes with theories about how the dinosaurs died out and a glossary of ‘special dinosaur words’.
A brilliant addition to any dinosaur-lover’s collection, Dinosaurs! Dinosaurs! Dinosaurs! is also sure to tempt new fans to the topic!
Dinosaurs! Dinosaurs! Dinosaurs!
Susan Martineau, illustrated by Vicky Barker
bsmall ISBN: 978-1913918897
You can read my review of ‘Sharks! Sharks! Sharks!’ here.
Fly: A child’s guide to birds and how to spot them
In the same series as ‘Glow: A child’s guide to the night sky’ and ‘Grow: A first guide to plants and how to grow them’, ‘Fly: A child’s guide to birds and how to spot them’ is another beautifully presented book from Magic Cat which seeks to engage children with the beauty and wonder of the world around them.
David Lindo, the Urban Birder, takes the reader on a journey of discovery, sharing his fascination with birds and seeking to engage the next generation of bird lovers. Each section focuses on an element relating to birds- feathers, wings, migration, various habitats- and introduces a specific bird in relation to this before looking at other birds and adaptations. There is also an ‘around the world’ section in which the author delves into the world of folklore and mythology, showing how cultures across the ages have been inspired by birds.
The book is beautifully presented with a clear introduction to each section, labelled diagrams and fact boxes. A clear glossary supports comprehension of technical terms whilst the contents page allows the reader to both browse for interest and locate specific information. Beautifully illustrated and packed with fascinating information, this book is sure to be a real hit with bird lovers and offer an amazing introduction for those who wish to know more.
Fly: A child’s guide to birds and how to spot them
David Lindo, illustrated by Sara Boccaccini Meadows
Magic Cat ISBN: 978-1915569295
You can read my review of ‘Glow’ here and ‘The Extraordinary World of Birds’ by David Lindo here.
Wilding: How to Bring Wildlife Back - An Illustrated Guide
‘Wilding: How to Bring Wildlife Back - An Illustrated Guide’ tells the story of the Knepp Estate in West Sussex and how the owners have allowed nature to return, bringing wildlife back to the estate. Now home to an abundance of creatures, including many rare species, the estate shows the importance- and benefits of rewilding.
Described as ‘a re-imagining of Wilding: The Return of Nature to a British Farm’, ‘Wilding’ is both fascinating and beautiful. Watercolours and lino prints by Angela Harding adorn every page offering a sense of the wonders this endeavour has brought about. A timeline at the beginning of the book outlines the events from the creation of the estate in William the Conqueror’s time through the changes of the Industrial Revolution, the Second World War, intensive farming and the family’s decision to stop farming and allow nature to thrive. From this point, the book is a celebration of the new landscape and its inhabitants with careful explanation of how this was achieved and ideas for how to rewild your own space.
Although pitched at younger readers, this book is an absolutely absorbing read for anyone. Both of my parents, my husband, my neighbour, my son and his girlfriend were all drawn towards this book, spending time getting lost in its pages and exclaiming in delight at the illustrations and pictures of the changes and the beauties of nature. It is a book which makes you pause and ponder the possibilities for your own environment, leaving you full of hope for the future.
‘Wilding: How to Bring Wildlife Back - An Illustrated Guide’
Isabella Tree, illustrated by Angela Harding
Macmillan ISBN: 978-1529092844
The Magnificent Book of Butterflies and Moths
‘Magnificent’ is a very good description of this book. Introducing the reader to some of the world’s most stunning species of butterflies and moths, the book is packed with information and gorgeous illustrations.
The presentation of the book is really ‘magnificent’! Each spread focuses on a different butterfly or moth, offering a beautiful, large illustration, a fact box, the Latin name and facts. The information is presented as bullet points with a silhouette of the creature to mark its place. A useful map of the world at the end of the book shows the location where each can be found and the size of each creature in comparison to a hand is indicated in the Fact Box.
There is so much to learn on every page whether you are a lepidopterist or someone just attracted to the book by its lovely cover. Not only poisonous, Cinnabar moths are sometimes cannibals. Fragile looking Glasswing butterflies might look fragile, but they can carry nearly 40 times their own weight. The Madagascan sunset moth is not only as beautiful as the name implies, but the colours on its wings are a warning to predators that it is poisonous whilst the Vampire moth drills into the skin of mammals with its proboscis.
An excellent addition to school school libraries or the perfect gift for anyone with an interest in these fascinating creatures, ‘The Magnificent Book of Butterflies and Moths’ is a real treat!
The Magnificent Book of Butterflies and Moths
Barbara Taylor, illustrated by Simon Treadwell
Weldon Owen ISBN: 978-1915588425
Published 7th March
You can read my review of ‘The Magnificent Book of Treasures: Ancient Rome’ here.
The Repair Shop: Craft Book
Like many people, I love everything about The Repair Shop. It is such a joyful patch of escapism and positivity with a lovely team of such skilled people, celebrating those items which are irreplaceable to their owners, full of memories and love. This brilliant book is jam packed with practical crafty ideas for children- and adults - to enjoy!
Readers do not need to be familiar with the television programme to appreciate this book; however, illustrations of the regular members of the team are included, showing the range of skills which they bring to the show. Following some advice about collecting materials and basic craft skills, the activities are then grouped into four sections: Making Toys, Perfect Presents, Outdoor Activities and Do-It-Yourself Decorations- and there really is something to tempt all tastes and all abilities.
Each project has a clear list of materials needed and then an illustrated step-by-step guide, with additional ‘Crafty Tips’. There is a real focus on using everyday household objects, making it perfect for those rainy days when seeking something to do as well as for planned projects. The wealth of ideas on offer in these pages will keep readers busy for many months and is sure to inspire further projects as many suggestions are given to extend the fun and creativity. The ‘Tawny Owl Pincushion’, for example, offers suggestions for making a fox, a pig or a panda, but the possibilities are limited only by the imagination (and skill!) of the maker.
The perfect gift, ‘The Repair Shop: Craft Book’ is an essential addition to home, school and library shelves, opening a world of crafting possibilities to the next generation.
The Repair Shop: Craft Book
Over 30 Creative Crafts for Children
illustrated by Sonia Albert
Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529507980
The Code of Life
All About Genes, DNA, Genetic Engineering, and Why You Are the Way You Are
Completely fascinating, ‘The Code of Life’ had me absorbed from start to finish! This is not a subject I have any great knowledge of, or (if I am honest) any real interest in, and yet, I found myself actually understanding and enjoying learning about genetics and DNA. And that’s something I never thought would happen.
Starting with the work of Gregor Mendel, an Austrian monk, whose early experiments with pea plants led to his being known as ‘the father of genetics’, the book clearly explains the theory of genetics, what genes are and the importance of DNA- all in a manner which is easily understood and supported by examples, diagrams and illustrations. The work of different scientists and their discoveries is explored, but the book makes it clear that there is still so much more to learn, encouraging the reader to think about the possibility of solving future puzzles. Issues like cloning are also explored, with the example of Dolly the sheep used to consider the debate around this subject.
A fascinating read for anyone who is interested, ‘The Code of Life’ also supports the KS3 Genetics and evolution National Curriculum statements. Its clear explanations, the engaging style and tone of the writing and the plentiful illustrations which support the text make it an invaluable, accessible resource. There is even a page encouraging readers to conduct their own research, offering ideas for things to try- and the answers are also included!
The Code of Life: All About Genes, DNA, Genetic Engineering,
and Why You Are the Way You Are
Carla Häfner, illustrated by Mieke Scheier
Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838741785
NNFN2023: Ultimate Dinosaurs
Day 28 of National Non-Fiction November!
Endlessly fascinating to many young children, dinosaur books will always be popular. This series builds an extremely collectable library of pocket sized books introducing the reader to different dinosaurs in an extremely readable mix of science and humour.
Each book has been carefully researched, clearly presenting information in accessible chunks, supported by plenty of diagrams and cartoons. Each book starts by defining what a dinosaur is and a section of this chapter offers the same information from book to book, ensuring consistency. The following chapter, Dinosaur Detectives, then focuses in on the subject of the book. Here the reader finds a description and a family tree which explores relationships between dinosaurs. Helpful diagrams illustrate the size of these creatures in relation to a human and there are pronunciation guides for how to say each name.
Other chapters look at the discoveries relating to the named dinosaur, their anatomy and habitat. ‘New Science’ explores the latest ideas and ‘the battle’ looks at how the ‘evolutionary arms race’ would have played out, supported by a cartoon depiction.
Packed with fascinating facts, these small books are a wonderful resource for dinosaur lovers, old and young.
Ultimate Dinosaur: Microraptor
Ben Garrod, illustrated by Scott Hartman, Gabriel Ugueto and Ethan Kocak
Zephyr ISBN: 978-1804548301
Ultimate Dinosaur: Ankylosaurus
Ben Garrod, illustrated by Scott Hartman, Gabriel Ugueto and Ethan Kocak
Zephyr ISBN: 978-1804548271
NNFN2023 Bloggers’ Tour: The Fossil Hunter
Today’s review for the NNNFN2023 Bloggers’ Tour is ‘The Fossil Hunter’ by Kate Winter. As her contribution to the story of modern science is becoming more recognised and valued, biographies of her life and work for children are starting to appear- and this is a real gem!
There is so much to recommend this book that it is hard to know where to start! Initial attraction might be the stunning illustrations. The cover is wonderfully tactile, inviting the reader to run their fingers over the vertebrae of a dinosaur and the stones it lies amongst whilst a bonnetless Mary points to the wonders of the ancient sky above her. The opening end papers show a sepia scene with Mary, her father, brother and little dog, Tray, seeking the fossils which became their livelihood whilst the back end papers show modern fossil hunters, following in her footsteps. Throughout the book, the illustrations form an integral part of Mary’s story, bringing scenes to life and creatively supporting the text. A number of fold-out pages are cleverly used to deepen the reader’s understanding of events in Mary’s story.
By putting Mary’s life, experiences and achievements in context, the author has emphasised the extent and significance of her achievements. Throughout her life, she (and her family) experienced grinding poverty and her place in society as both a woman and a member of the working classes meant that her work was barely acknowledged in her lifetime- and beyond. Her passion and determination are fully recognised, but so are her struggles and frustrations.
‘The Fossil Hunter’ is packed with fascinating information, presented in a very appealing, accessible manner. Quotes from Mary herself, background information about fossils and dinosaurs, contextual information about her times and other fossil collectors and fossil finds around the world all combine to make this an essential read for anyone interested in the life and work of Mary Anning. Can’t recommend this one highly enough!
The Fossil Hunter: How Mary Anning Unearthed the Truth about the Dinosaurs
Kate Winter
Puffin ISBN: 978-0241469880
Blog Tour: Start Small Think Big
I am delighted to be taking part in Blog Tour which celebrates not only lovely books, but also National Non-Fiction November! ‘Start Small, Think Big’ is a fabulous series which is designed to engage and inspire young readers- and they certainly do!
‘Small, Speckled Egg’ follows the life cycle of the Arctic tern. The egg can be seen through the die-cut on the cover, engaging youngest readers from the outset. A clever mix of simple, easy to read text and more detailed information allows the book to be read and shared in different ways. This offers a text which can both support emergent readers and offer more challenge for those who need it, making it the perfect accompaniment for teaching parts of the KS1 Science or Geography curriculum. The same format is used for ‘Little, Brown Nut’ just as successfully.
Neither book shies away from using the ‘technical’ vocabulary connected with its subject, which is clearly explained and used. Thus the reader learns about the ‘agouti’, what ‘photosynthesis’ is and how long it takes the seed to ‘germinate’. All the information is supported by engaging illustrations, offering plenty of detail. A fold-out page at the end of the book offers a useful pictorial summary of the life cycle, a map of the world/ country relating to the topic, an I-Spy section and a ‘Think Big!’ fact box which includes additional information.
There is so much to learn and enjoy packed into each of these books, showing how essential high quality non-fiction texts are for young children to feed and inspire their natural curiosity about the world around them. The fact that these also offer plenty to interest older children- and adults- make them perfect for sharing and encouraging discussion with others.
Start Small, Think Big: Small, Speckled Egg
Mary Auld, illustrated by Anna Terreros Martin
Mama Makes Books ISBN: 978-1739774875
Start Small, Think Big: Little, Brown Nut
Mary Auld, illustrated by Dawn Cooper
Mama Makes Books ISBN: 978-1739774882
Many thanks to the team at Mama Makes Books for inviting me to take part in this Blog Tour!
NNFN2023: The Tyrannosaur’s Feathers
Like many young children, my son was fascinated by dinosaurs when he was little. We spent many happy hours at the Natural History Museum in London and the one in Oxford, collected hundreds of plastic models and books and could identify many different types! This fascinating and absorbing book would have delighted him.
Tyrannosaurus and Velociraptor engage in a lively discussion about how old-fashioned T-rex is looking and how much he needs a make over. Together, they go on a journey of discovery to match his appearance to the most recent evidence. Notes alongside their conversation help to develop understanding and the use of ambitious vocabulary is something which young dinosaur lovers seem to thrive on and enjoy!
The combination of humorous banter, the illustrations which change in response to this and the abundant scientific information makes this a real winner of a book. Additional pages at the end of the book offer the ‘latest evidence’, reminding the reader that there are always more discoveries to be made! A brilliant addition to any bookshelf!
The Tyrannosaur’s Feathers
Dr Adam S Smith and Jonathan Emmett, illustrated by Stieven Van der Poorten
UCLan Publishing ISBN: 978-1915235596
You can read my review of ‘The Plesiosaur’s Neck’ here.
NNFN2023: Stones and Bones
Always a source of fascination for children, ‘Stones and Bones’ is an attractive book, bursting with facts and the amazing stories which fossils can tell us about the past. The book is divided into five sections, using case studies to develop understanding. Starting with a section entitled ‘What are fossils?’, the book explains what paleontology is and the work of people, including Mary Anning, who have helped develop understanding of fossils and what they can tell us.
A clear explanation of how fossils are formed is supported by diagrams and the ‘Fossil Record’ sets out the specific eras in the earth’s history each layer of fossils relates to. These eras are then explored in more detail in the subsequent chapters.
Concise sections of text clearly explain the different concepts and every spread is attractively illustrated with plenty of details to notice and discuss. The book finishes with a look at paleontology today, how to become a paleontologist and why this subject is so important. A comprehensive glossary develops the reader’s understanding. Perfect for supporting work in the curriculum as well as reading for pleasure!
Stones and Bones: Fossils and the Stories They Tell
Rob Wilshaw, illustrated by Sophie Williams
Cicada ISBN: 978-1800660427
NNFN2023: One Tiny Treefrog/ So You Want to be a Frog
Day 23 of NNFN2023 and today has a frog theme! Each book takes a different approach, but both are bursting with froggy facts!
‘One Tiny Treefrog’ is both beautiful and informative. For younger children, it offers a lively counting down book as ten tiny tadpoles fight to survive in the tropical rainforest; for older children, it offers plenty of scientific information about life cycles, habitats, predators and prey, including Latin classifications.
The illustrations are full of details to notice and discuss, offering a tropical feeling which is sure to encourage curiosity about Costa Rica and the lowland wet forest which forms the habitat for all the creatures introduced on these pages. Additional information is included at the end of the book, offering more detail on the lifecycle of the red-eyed treefrog and Costa Roca.
This is a stunning information book which works on different levels for different children. A real must-have!
One Tiny Treefrog: A Countdown to Survival
Tony Piedra and Mackenzie Joy
Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529509694
In ‘So you want to be a Frog’, readers are invited to become members of the Frog Club. It’s light-hearted tone makes it a very accessible, entertaining read, but without compromising the wealth of factual information the book contains. Fabio Frog appeals directly to the reader- Let’s take a look at you! Hmm. You’re not exactly green, are you?- and then chats away, sharing all manner of details about how frogs behave. At one point, he challenges readers to Wiggle like crazy! in an attempt to move like a tadpole!
Beautiful illustrations add much to the text. Fabio is drawn in a cartoon style whilst the representations of other frogs are more realistic and there are plenty of humorous touches. This is a book which children will return to again and again -either independently or as a shared experience with an adult or older sibling. Clever, informative and enjoyable! See you on the lily pad!
So you want to be a FROG: Everything there is to know about frogs!
Jane Porter, illustrated by Neil Clark
Walker Books ISBN: 978-1406399714
NNFN2023: Great Minds
Presenting quite challenging material in a very readable, accessible format, ‘Great Minds’ offers a look at some of the greatest philosophers ever known. The introduction poses the question ‘What is philosophy for?’ - and concludes that it is a ‘tool to change the world’. The following chapters then tell the story of a philosopher, a group of philosophers or a collective philosophy, considering the time and place where they originated and what caused them to pose their questions and ponder their answers. The graphic style format works perfectly, framing the information in clear sections, making the text easy to navigate.
The book starts with Confucius, looking at his life and the development of his thinking. It raises the point that there are many sayings attributed to the man with no evidence of this being the case, pointing the reader in the direction of where to find the truth and highlighting other thinkers who have been influenced by his work. From this well-known name, the authors move to ‘the mysterious philosopher’, Zeno of Elea, details about whom might be sparce, but whose ideas ‘shook the world of philosophy’. The reader is introduced to his ‘paradoxes’ which are (once again) clearly explained. Philosophers from across the world are included- women and men- and readers are sure to return to this book again and again, dipping in and out as interest is piqued or honing in on a specific section to support learning in other areas.
As the book continues, each thinker is carefully introduced and their philosophy thoughtfully explained and explored. There is so much to learn here, so much to encourage questioning and reflection. The book clearly shows that philosophical ideas have developed across the world, throughout history and how these ideas can be key to change. The illustrations are bold, colourful and appealing; however, in places some of the background colours can make the text harder to read. That said, there is so much to recommend this to readers young and old!
Great Minds: 2500 Years of Thinkers and Philosophy
Joan Haig and Joan Lennon, illustrated by Andre Ducci
Templar ISBN: 978-1800783539
Also from this team is ‘Talking History’ which features the ‘stirring words’ of 16 speakers whose speeches have changed the world. From Jawaharlal Nehru to Helen Keller, Emmeline Pankhurst to Pearl Gibbs, the book is full of inspiring and passionate words and the impact that they had.
Talking History: 150 Years of Speakers and Speeches
Joan Haig and Joan Lennon, illustrated by Andre Ducci
Templar ISBN: 978-1787417328
NNFN2023: The Handbook of Forgotten Skills
Packed full of engaging and stimulating ideas and activities, ‘The Handbook of Forgotten Skills’ would make a wonderful gift for any child. There is much here which reminds me of my own childhood- and anything which encourages children to spend time away from computer screens and engage in simple, purposeful pursuits is surely a good thing!
The book is beautifully presented with a short introduction to each topic setting the scene and offering a little background on the subject. Clear, step-by-step instructions accompany each activity with illustrations to support the reader’s understanding. The book is brimming with the simple pleasure gained from spending time with family making, mending, exploring -and learning without realising!
Whether you enjoy- or fancy having a go at- baking, gardening, skipping stones or a multitude of other skills, this book is invaluable! Perfect for dipping in and out of , there is so much fun to be had in these pages!
The Handbook of Forgotten Skills
Elaine Baptiste and Natalie Crowley, illustrated by Chris Duriez
Magic Cat ISBN: 978-1913520847
NNFN2023: The Magnificent Book of Treasures Ancient Rome
This stunning book is a treasure trove of information about life in Roman times. Each spread focuses on an historical artefact , offering a wealth of details including a fact file giving the current location of the object, where it was discovered, its size and the materials its made from.
The main body of the text is presented as bullet points, making it easy to pause and refer to the picture between reading each one and fully absorb the information. A wonderful range of objects covers all aspects of Roman life from the army to emperors from goddesses to music. A map at the end of the book shows not only the location of each artefact, but the extent of the Roman Empire at the height of its power.
An excellent addition to any topic box or bookshelf for those learning about the ancient Romans, this book is also fascinating in its own right. The careful drawings are sure to inspire further research and encourage readers to look for photographs of the objects and perhaps encourage visits to see them in real life- for example, the terracotta theatre mask or the bronze rattle which are now in the British Museum. A magnificent book!
The Magnificent Book of Treasures: Ancient Rome
Stella Cadwell, illustrated by Eugenia Nobati
Weldon Owen ISBN: 978-1915588135