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.
Wild Magic: Legend of the Black Lion
Twins, Misha and Ziggy, share a secret. Misha can talk to animals whilst Ziggy can shapeshift into them. When they accompany their dad, a wildlife TV presenter, on a trip to Ethiopia, they are determined to help him find the legendary black lion. However, when they discover poachers are threatening the wildlife, they are sure they can use their powers to help.
‘Legend of the Black Lion’ is a very engaging and enjoyable adventure story. The idea of being able to speak to animals is really appealing, making this sure to be a very popular book- the first of a new series.
The twins are lively and full of personality, who share a lovely relationship with their hard-working dad. Excited to see all the wildlife, they are also keen to use their powers to help their father get footage of the famous- and elusive- black lion. Their adventure contains just the right amount of jeopardy and tension to make the story exciting without causing upset and reaches a very satisfying conclusion where the goodies triumph and all is well!
Another lovely thing about this story is the amount of general information it contains about Ethiopia and its wildlife. Readers are sure to be fascinated by the fact that Ethiopia has a different calendar to the Western one, for example. Additional information at the end of the book about both black lions and Ethiopia is included and there are plenty of lovely illustrations, bursting with personality, which add much to the story.
‘Legend of the Black Lion’ would make an excellent class story!
Wild Magic: Legend of the Black Lion
Abiola Bello, illustrated by Emma McCann
Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398520486
Small World
Celebrating the tiniest creatures on the planet, ‘Small World’ is a fascinating and absorbing read. Divided into six sections, the book looks at tiny birds, fish, amphibians, invertebrates, mammals and reptiles as well as offering a chapter on the ‘very smallest animals’.
Two beautifully illustrated pages are devoted to each creature highlighted with an additional page in each section which allows readers to see each drawn to their actual size. Along with its Latin name, the habitat, diet and appearance are described along with the benefits and challenges it faces as a result of its size.
Some of the animals presented in this book are sure to be familiar- the bee hummingbird, the Ocellaris clownfish or the Monarch butterfly, for example; however, there are plenty of creatures which even the most ardent animal lover may not be familiar with. The rusty-spotted cat, which looks a little like a tabby, is the smallest species of cat on Earth. Kitti’s hog-nosed bat- craseonycteris thonglongyai- also known as the bumblebee bat, is only 3cm long. The Barbados threadsnake, which had been incorrectly identified for years and was only scientifically described by Western scientists in 2008, is only 10cm long.
There is so much to enjoy and learn about the wonderful mixture of appealing, slightly alarming, dangerous and curious creatures found in these pages. As well as being a book to fascinate animal lovers of all ages, there is plenty here which would support- and enrich- elements of the primary curriculum, including adaptation and habitats. A glossary and index are included to support readers’ understanding and its larger format makes it perfect for sharing.
Small World: Meet 30 of the Earth’s Tiniest Creatures
Nick Crumpton, illustrated by Rosie Dore
Wide Eyed ISBN: 978-0711288560
Published 20th March 2025
The Appletree Animal Agency
Wishing on a shooting star for the puppy she desperately wants, Mattie knows it won’t happen as her Dad just doesn’t believe she is responsible enough yet to properly look after one. However, when she and her friend, Zoe, find a tiny, scruffy puppy in need of help, she rises to the challenge and meeting the new vet, Dr Polly and her son, Casper, all three children become her apprentice vets. Together, they care for all manner of pets, but soon realise that these creatures need to find homes of their own. That’s when Mattie has one of her madcap Mattie schemes…
‘The Apprentice Animal Agency’ is the first book in a new series which is sure to be a huge hit with young animal lovers. It offers a wonderful blend of gentle adventure, humour, friendship and mishaps, making it perfect for those who are after a well-written, engaging tale which is not packed with peril or fart jokes!
Mattie, Zoe and Casper are three really nice kids who are not fixed to their phones, but are keen to be hands on and active by helping look after animals. Zoe is highly organised, Casper ‘knows everything’ about animals and Mattie has a way with them, making the perfect team. However, not everything goes smoothly, showing each child’s flaws as well as their strengths. Each problem is overcome and the friends emerge stronger than before, offering reassurance and showing the importance of seeing things through and solving problems.
There is a real focus on care for animals which shines through this story. Mattie is desperate for a puppy, but Dad is keen to make sure she is responsible enough to look after one. On finding the puppy, who Mattie calls Luna, the children show great patience and understanding, waiting for it to be ready to come to them rather than rushing it. Each of the pets being rehomed is carefully matched to their new owner, considering the needs and well-being of both. It is not often that the thought needed when considering adopting a pet is shown in children’s stories so this is wonderful to see!
I look forward to seeing the second book in the series, ‘Collie Chaos’!
The Appletree Animal Agency
Katya Balen, illustrated by Gill Smith
Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529519181
Squeak! Squawk! Roar! Amazing Animal Poems
‘Squeak! Squawk! Roar!’ is a vibrant collection of poems celebrating the diverse and wonderful world of animals. From elephants to mice, cobras to chimpanzees, there is much to enjoy in these pages.
With so many lovely poems, it is hard to select just one or two to highlight in a review! However, I have done my best… For a cat-lover like me, ‘A Cat’s Day In’ is an absolute delight, capturing the essence of a cat’s activities as it tip-toes on its ‘quilted paws’ with a ‘mew of indecision’. Of course, dog fans might prefer ‘A Dog’s View’ which follows! ‘A Cat’s Day In’ is a joy to read aloud- and would make a wonderful performance piece for a class! great fun, ‘A Wombat is a Non-Bat’ is a delicious bit of fun, highlighting all the endearing qualities of these lovely creatures and ‘Dance of the Penguins’ is a wonderful example of how a few, carefully chosen words can so vividly encapsulate an idea.
The poems are accompanied by charming illustrations, one of my favourites being the cheeky little hamster. The collection is perfect for dipping in and out of and many of the poems could enliven odd moments between lessons, be enjoyed at story time or linked to work on animals in the curriculum as well as inspiring children to create their own verses. Great fun!
Squeak! Squawk! Roar! Amazing Animal Poems
Kate Williams, illustrated by Hannah Asen
Otter-Barry Books ISBN: 978-1915659552
Publication date: 9th January
NNFN2024: Young Zoologist
Designed to inspire young biologists, the ‘Young Zoologist’ series offers ‘a first field guide…’ to a whole range of creatures. Children with an interest in nature are sure to want to collect the whole set and school libraries and classrooms would benefit from having these texts on their shelves, both for research and for general interest.
‘Axolotl’ opens with an introduction to the author and a fact file which offers an excellent overview of these fascinating creatures. Each spread has a clear heading introducing its topic with information presented in clear sections under side headings, making it easy to navigate.
Bright and appealing illustrations accompany information on the axolotl’s life cycle, mating rituals and other members of the salamander family. The book also offers information on how studying these creatures might be beneficial to humans, such as helping those with spinal injuries. As axolotls are found in Mexico, they feature in Aztec mythology, something which is also covered in the book.
A very informative and attractive book.
Young Zoologist: Axolotl
Dr Jessica Lamae Whited, illustrated by Bethany Lord
Neon Squid ISBN: 978- 1916745094
Dr Julia Mata opens the book by introducing herself and her interest in capybaras. A fact file including the scientific name, classification and where they are found, indicates that there are two species, the greater and lesser capybara.
Clear page headings introduce each spread and side headings make it easy for readers to locate information, which is presented in concise, easily digestible chunks. A glossary at the end of the book clearly explains terms which are used in the text.
Having ‘met’ the capybara on a spread with a labelled diagram, other members of the rodent family are introduced. The book offers information about their habitats, dietary requirements and life cycle. Readers also learn about the impact they have on their ecosystems and the threats they face from predators, including humans. Colourful illustrations throughout make the book appealing.
Young Zoologist: Capybara
Dr Julia Mata, illustrated by Greco Westermann
Neon Squid ISBN: 978-1916745087
NNFN2024: Nature's Fascinating Friendships
‘Nature’s Fascinating Friendships’ is a beautifully presented factual text which celebrates ‘mutualistic symbiosis’ or the interactions between different species where both sides benefit. The book starts by zooming in on the ‘friend on the inside’ which humans have- the bacteria which keeps us healthy - before moving around the world, continent by continent to explore the ‘fascinating friendships’ which can be found there.
The text is written in a pleasant, ‘chatty’ style with clear, concise explanations, making it an informative and pleasurable read. Some pages include a quiz question (with answers at the bottom or side of the page!) and others encourage the reader to look for things in the illustrations, adding an interactive element to enjoy. The illustrations are really eye-catching, using colour to great effect, offering the perfect accompaniment to the text.
There is a real sense of how nature works smoothly through these partnerships which encourages readers to reflect on the benefits of harmonious relationships. Indeed, the book ends with a section on how we can be friends to nature, a suitable conclusion to this thought-provoking look at the natural world. A valuable addition to bookshelves, this is a book which will absorb and inspire!
Nature’s Fascinating Friendships
Mike Hills, illustrated by Kerry Hyndman
Faber ISBN: 978-0571372591
Life in the Wild
‘Life in the Wild’ is a fascinating book. In her note, the author describes it as ‘an intersection between science, story telling, adventure and conservation’ and it does indeed reflect all of these areas, making it a very accessible and enjoyable read.
Each chapter is devoted to an exceptional individual of different species, tagged and tracked by scientists to deepen understanding of their behaviour. Ten creatures are introduced followed by a map showing where they live and, in most cases, a tracked journey which they made. General information about the species is included and, for some, further information about conservation work is also given.
There are many books about animals available, but what makes this really stand out from others is the personal connection it offers. By sharing the real plight of 20741, a female adult polar bear, the reader feels a deeper empathy as the story of one illuminates the struggles of the many. The unique behaviours of each creature is sure to intrigue children and develop their interest in the incredible wildlife of our planet.
A wide range of animals is covered here, including some which perhaps get less exposure. Through the story of Sitka, readers learn of the rapid population decline of albatrosses whilst Bigonia’s tale offers a fascinating look at these intelligent, solitary creatures. Advances in technology have allowed scientists to learn more – and yet expose just how much still is unknown.
Each spread is beautifully presented using a mixture of photographs and illustrations, making the book as attractive as it is informative. A glossary and index are included and study references are also offered, allowing those who wish the opportunity to explore further.
Life in the Wild
Lizzie Daly, illustrated by Chiara Fedele
DK ISBN: 978- 0241634110
Blog Tour: Open Wide!
Today, it’s my turn to dive into the ‘jaw-dropping mouths of the animal world’ on the ‘Open Wide!’ Blog Tour.
Let’s start by asking a few questions. Do you know which creature has fangs that fold flat to stop it accidentally biting itself? No? What about which creature can extend its tongue one-and-a-half times its body length? Me neither! If you don’t know, then this is the book you need!
From its tasty introduction onwards, ‘Open Wide!’ is bursting with those quirky and fascinating facts which children love to discover and share! Starting with human teeth (Science NC Y4: identify the different types of teeth in humans and their simple functions), the book moves to the commonalities of mammalian mouths before moving on to the eating habits of slugs and snails. I now know what a ‘radula’ is!
The contents page is full of tempting titles like ‘Tremendous Tusks’ and Gigantic Grins’, making the book perfect for dipping in and out of: however, it is very easy to be led from page to page as there are intriguing questions posed at the bottom of some which you just have to turn over to find the answer to! I wanted to know if I was right about how the Barbary macaques were feeling -I wasn’t!- but I was more successful with guessing which coloured tongue belonged to which animal.
Whilst the book is mainly illustrated by Ed J Brown, some photographs are also included, allowing children to see the sucker of a goby and krill up close amongst other things. One of the most popular features of the text will no doubt be the ‘Not for the Squeamish’ fact boxes which regularly appear containing those disgusting facts which children love to quote- usually in the middle of a lesson!
Having both an index and glossary, ‘Open Wide!’ will be a useful resource for teachers keen to enrich the science curriculum with fascinating facts about teeth, diet, food chains, habitats etc, perhaps using the quiz sheet available on the ‘What on Earth’ website along with some other resources for this title.
A really absorbing read!
Open Wide!
Dr Letizia Diamante and Ed J Brown
What on Earth ISBN: 978-1804661352
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
NNFN2023: Who’s Afraid of the Light?
With a glow-in-the-dark cover and its intriguing title, ‘Who’s Afraid of the Light?’ is narrative non-fiction at its best. From the end papers, the reader is pulled into the story by seagulls explaining the story takes place ‘down there’ and this thread is continued by other creatures as the background gets darker until we arrive at the ‘deepest, darkest depths of the ocean’ and a multi-coloured speech bubble introduces Fergus, although there is no sign of him!
Gradually, a picture builds as Fergus answers questions and seeks to avoid various other creatures of the midnight zone as they appear. We learn how well adapted each of these creatures is to their dark habitat and gain clues to form a picture of Fergus until a camera flash reveals the truth, showing Fergus is not what was imagined!
Using humour, a chatty written style and clever illustrations all combine to make this a very appealing and accessible book, sure to be a huge favourite with younger children. Additional information is included in a ‘Do You Know?’ spread at the end of the book, allowing readers to discover more about life in the Midnight Zone with a depth gauge down the side showing the different layers of the ocean. There is so much to learn and enjoy in this book!
Who’s Afraid of the Light? Anna McGregor
Scribble ISBN: 978-1914484353
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
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
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!
The Taming of the Cat
Brie is an unusual mouse. Unlike the other mice in the cheese shop colony, he prefers breadcrumbs and grain to cheese and has a head full of stories. These things do not endear him to the other mice and he finds himself lonely- and cold. Seeking warmth, Brie finds himself caught in the paws of the fearsome, Gorgonzola, the cheese shop cat. In this life-or-death situation, Brie decides to distract her by telling her stories inspired by the labels on the different cheeses. Caught between the animosity of his mouse community and the threat of death by cat, he must weave a tale which will change his life.
In the tradition of Scheherazade, the tales told by Brie are framed by his own life story, making this a wonderfully rich and entertaining book with plenty to recommend it. The nature of cats and their predator/ prey relationship with mice is not shied away from, but this is an important part of the story, building a clear picture of Gorgonzola’s personality and increasing the sense of tension and the feeling of peril for Brie’s situation.
Brie is a wonderful character. Different from the other, he is victimised by the other mice for being different, for having his own interests. Although his relationship with Gorgonzola begins through necessity as Brie wishes to survive, it develops into a true friendship, something which is lacking in his fellows, offering plenty to discuss. In Gorgonzola, Helen Cooper has captured a real essence of cat which is a joy to read!
The story which Brie tells is shaped and developed in response to Gorgonzola’s interests and whims as much as it is inspired by the pictures and names on the cheese labels. It is a magical tale and one which is sure to inspire children to create stories of their own- perhaps as a collaborative activity, sparked by things around them.
Lavishly illustrated, the book is full of pictures to linger over and enjoy, the perfect complement to the story.
The Taming of the Cat Helen Cooper
Faber ISBN: 978-0571376018
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
You can read my review of The Hippo at the End of the Hall here.
Animal Tales from India
On Saturday, I had the great pleasure of listening to Nikita Gill, talking at the Bath Children’s Literature Festival about her new book, ‘Animal Tales from India: Ten Stories from the Panchatantra’. She explained how these stories had formed an essential part of her childhood and she now wished to share them with other children as her grandmother had shared them with her. Originally written in Sanskrit, these ancient stories are a collection of interwoven animal fables, full of wonder and wisdom, humour and heart.
Each tale speaks directly to the reader, creating that intimate feeling of storytelling which is such a feature of old stories, told and re-told through the generations. As with all fables, there is a clear moral to each tale, a thought which is presented at the end of the story, often with a touch of humour, keeping the tone light hearted. ‘The Blue Jackal’, Nikita’s favourite, reminds the reader about the importance of loyalty and family whilst ‘The Monkey and the Crocodile’ is about choosing your friends carefully. The stories are a joy to read aloud with plenty of opportunities to ‘do the voices’ and so much to discuss and enjoy!
The book itself is a thing of beauty. The jacket is wonderfully tactile with gold embossing, but this lifts off to reveal a glorious orange hardback with purple lettering and illustrations. An orange ribbon bookmark means you will never lose your place and every spread is beautifully illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat whose pictures are delightful.
This is a treasure of a book, perfect for sharing time and again, but also a collection of stories which will be revisited independently, as familiar friends.
Animal Tales from India: Ten Stories from the Panchatantra
Nikita Gill, illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839944628
The Emerald Forest
Orangutan lives in an emerald forest, teeming with life. Here, she teaches her children what to eat and how to build a nest. But one day, a loud noise heralds the arrival of something new which threatens their lives and she is forced to take her family and flee…
With gorgeous illustrations and moving text, this is a very powerful, special picture book, perfect for sharing. Although it clearly shows the impact of deforestation on endangered species- indeed on all the creatures who inhabit the forest, the book ends on a note of hope, showing that there are people taking action, not able to reverse the destruction, but caring for the creatures whose homes have been lost.
The illustrations showing the colours and light of the Indonesian forest, capturing the very beauty of the natural world, are stunning, creating a stark contrast to the scenes of wanton destruction and chaos caused by man. These dramatic pictures perfectly complement the emotive, engaging text. The richness of vocabulary offers much to discuss and reflect upon and the illustrations demand empathy and action.
The book ends with information about orangutans and the threats they are under and offers links for readers to explore further and learn more. This is very useful for parents/ teachers/ other adults who might be sharing the book with younger children, helping them to be prepared for conversations and questions which the story is sure to generate.
A must-have for anyone who loves animals.
The Emerald Forest
Catherine Ward, illustrated by Karin Littlewood
Otter- Barry Books ISBN: 978-1913074142
A Whale of a Time: A Funny Poem for Every Day of the Year
The latest in Nosy Crow’s beautiful cloth bound poetry anthologies, ‘A Whale of a Time’ offers a humorous poem for each day of the year. Sharing works from all over the world, the collection uses regional spellings to remain faithful to the original voice of each poet.
Arranged month by month, each section has its own contents page, making it easy to locate, not only the poem for the day, but any work in that section, encouraging readers to return to favourites again and again. There are so many treasures here, each bringing laughter and brightening the day. One poem by Celia Warren made me smile as it reminded me of so many bedtimes- of my own son, of nieces and nephews, of friends’ little ones- and is sure to be a night time favourite, causing giggles as children recognise their own tactics!
As well as being amusing, there are poems which suit different times of the year. The 5th of November has a funny firework poem, the end of October features spooky poems and there is a Christmassy feel around the end of December. Pancakes and love appear in February and fools in April. Each page is an absolute joy, helping to add a sprinkle of poetry to each day of the year.
The illustrations complement the poems brilliantly! ‘Daddy Fell into the Pond’ - a great personal favourite - written by Alfred Noyes (better known for ‘The Highwayman’!) is accompanied by the perfect picture, capturing all its charm! Elsewhere smiling cats, laughing children and happy hares add to the exuberance and appeal of the collection, which looks stunning alongside ‘I Am the Seed That Grew the Tree: A Nature Poem for Every Day of the Year’ and ‘Tiger, Tiger, Burning Bright: An Animal Poem for Every Day of the Year’.
A Whale of a Time: A Funny Poem for Every Day of the Year
Selected by Lou Peacock, illustrated by Matt Hunt
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839942013
Published 14th September 2023
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
Blog Tour: Curious Creatures Talking Together
I am delighted to be taking part in the Book Review Blog Tour for this wonderful book. In fact, I was so keen to share my thoughts that I jumped the gun with my review- but am delighted to share it again - with some additional thoughts - as part of the tour!
Third in the ‘Curious Creatures’ series, ‘Talking Together’ offers another fascinating look into the world of animals and how ‘curious creatures’ communicate. All the signs and signals they use are explored here!
The book explores a whole range of communication skills which animals employ from body language to special sounds, from dazzling displays of colour to pungent pongs. The book also highlights the work of biologists like Jurgen Otto, who has discovered new species of the peacock spider which communicates by performing a hypnotic dance to attract a partner and the work of scientists, Dorothy Cheney and Robert Seyfarth on the differing cries of vervet monkeys. It would be fascinating to use for Guided Reading sessions, with succinct sections of text, full of specific vocabulary, offering plenty to discuss and explore. Sections might also be used as models for children’s own writing of non-fiction whilst the varied habitats included might inspire some map work, locating the places mentioned. The nature of the series- being curious about the curiosities of the animal kingdom- might also lead to researching the most curious facts that can be found, like why wombats have cube- shaped poo!
With ring-tailed lemurs secreting smelly chemicals and whales singing mysterious songs, there is so much to learn about and relish in this book as the author looks at creatures from across the world from tiny ants to gentle, giant elephants. It is a fascinating look at the wonders of the world around us. Perfect for the curious creatures in your own life!
Curious Creatures: Talking Together
Zoe Armstrong, illustrated by Anja Susanj
Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838740351
Many thanks to the lovely Maryam at Flying Eye Books for inviting me to take part in this Blog Tour. I look forward to reading the other reviewers thoughts about the book!
Curious Creatures: Talking Together
Third in the ‘Curious Creatures’ series, ‘Talking Together’ offers another fascinating look into the world of animals and how ‘curious creatures’ communicate. All the signs and signals they use are explored here!
The book explores a whole range of communication skills which animals employ from body language to special sounds, from dazzling displays of colour to pungent pongs. The book also highlights the work of biologists like Jurgen Otto, who has discovered new species of the peacock spider which communicates by performing a hypnotic dance to attract a partner and the work of scientists, Dorothy Cheney and Robert Seyfarth on the differing cries of vervet monkeys.
With ring-tailed lemurs secreting smelly chemicals and whales singing mysterious songs, there is so much to learn about and enjoy in this book as the author looks at creatures from across the world from tiny ants to gentle, giant elephants. It is a fascinating look at the wonders of the world around us. Perfect for the curious creatures in your own life!
Curious Creatures: Talking Together
Zoe Armstrong, illustrated by Anja Susanj
Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838740351
Published on the 3rd August 2023
You can read my review of Curious Creatures: Working with Tools here.
