NNFN2024: A Little Blue Dot

November is flying by-but there are still plenty of days left to share lots of fabulous factual books. Today’s book is ‘A Little Blue Dot, from Mama Makes Books, a small, independent publisher.

‘A Little Blue Dot’ is a lovely example of narrative non-fiction, allowing younger readers the joys of a story combined with accurately researched facts and details. Here, Earth, an ‘inconspicuous’ blue dot, contemplates the other planets as she floats in space. She feels that all the other planets are special, whilst she isn’t. As she contemplates the wonders of Mercury, the beauties of Venus and so on, she shares information about each one until she is interrupted by the other planets assure her that they are all jealous of her. Then Earth hears a little voice with something very important to say…

Through the conversational tone of the text and adorable illustrations, readers are offered a wealth of information about the planets which is accessible and entertaining. A little fact file about each planet is also presented on the end papers which shows them all in order from the sun with the Asteroid belt and the Kuiper belt included.

There is, of course, the additional benefit of a subtle message about not comparing yourself to others and realising just how unique and special everyone is which can easily be drawn from the story should readers wish. However, there is no questioning the importance or value of cleverly written narrative non-fiction texts in both reading for pleasure and reading for information. This delightful book is perfect for allowing children to learn more about the planets- and enjoy a lovely story along the way!

A Little Blue Dot

Maren Hasenjäger

Mama Makes Books ISBN: 978-1916780057

The Bee Connection

Meet Mason B. Chandler, owner of Stemville’s private detective agency. In her first case, Mason follows the clues to solve a sticky situation which has caused Bug Borough to come to a standstill. Not only does she reveal the truth about what happened, Mason introduces readers to the fascinating world of bees along the way.

Combining story, information and appealing illustrations, ‘The Bee Connection’ is an absolute must-have for any curious nature lover, class bookshelf or library. There is a feeling of Richard Scarry’s ‘Busy World’ to some spreads, drawing the reader into Mason’s world and encouraging them to linger over each spread, absorbing the details whilst other pictures really help to support and explain the text.

Following Mason on her investigation, readers are encouraged to notice details and develop their factual knowledge of the different varieties of bees and their lifestyles. So much information is given, but in such a readable, easily digested style, brilliantly supported by the illustrations, that there is never a feeling of being over-loaded or overwhelmed by facts. Paragraphs, labelled diagrams, captions and short snippets of text keep the reader interested and attentive.

The book concludes with practical suggestions for how to be ‘bee friendly’, encouraging readers to value and look after these incredible creatures. These would be simple to follow at home or in school and the book would make an invaluable resource for teachers, supporting the science curriculum, developing interest in STEM subjects and modelling information writing as well as perhaps inspiring children to draw and design their own bee characters who might live in Bug Borough!

Anyone familiar with the very excellent ‘Professor Astro-Cat’ series will have high expectations of this - and they will not be disappointed. Informative and entertaining, ‘The Bee Connection’ is an bee-rilliant read!

STEMville: The Bee Connection

Ben Newman

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838741266

Published February 1st 2024

You can read my reviews of Professor Astro-Cat’s ‘Human Body Odyssey’ here and ‘Deep Sea Voyage’ here.

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: Honeybee

Combining poetic language, storytelling and factual information, ‘Honeybee’ is a delightful read, following the life of a bee from emerging from her waxed cell to the end of her life. With the scientific name Apis mellifera, the author names this new bee Apis as she emerges into a ‘teeming, trembling flurry’.

Everyone knows that bees fly, bussing around busily, but the author skilfully builds tension within this life story, ending each page with the expectation that Apis will fly off on the following spread. In truth, each new spread explores one of the many activities honey bees perform within the nest- cleaning, nursing, queen tending…the list goes on as the reader learns of all the tasks which must be completed until on the twenty-fifth day of her life, Apis leaps from the nest and flies.

The illustrations are stunning. Those depicting life within the confines of the nest are in darker hues with golden highlights contrasting with a spectacular double gatefold spread showing Apis’s first flight over a meadow peppered with the yellows and pinks of wildflowers. Although Apis dies at the end, the lifecycle continues with a new honeybee shown chewing their way from its cell. A labelled diagram of a honeybee and pages of additional information are included at the end of the book. This is a real beauty of a book, certain to engage and inspire!

Honeybee: The Busy Life of Apis Mellifera

Candace Fleming, illustrated by Eric Rohmann

Pushkin Press ISBN: 978-1782694090

We Are All Astronauts

Luna Scope, aged seven-and-a-bit Earth years is determined to be an astronaut. Full of enthusiasm, she is about to launch herself into her ambition, but fortunately, her granny is on hand to guide her with some excellent advice. Luna learns about spacesuits and telescopes, stars and space rocks, gravity and gravity. Granny also introduces her to some space heroes and over-looked animal pioneers whose achievements paved the way for the humans who followed.

Written in the same fun-filled, highly illustrated style as the ‘Fantastically Great Women’ series which Kate Pankhurst is so well known for, ‘We are All Astronauts’ is packed with information, sure to engage and fascinate. The author’s note explains her inspiration for writing the story came from the real-life story of the Mercury 13, a group of female trainee astronauts who never reached space because they were women. The book is brimming with positivity and inspiration, shining a light on the contributions of women, and proudly shouting the message that anyone can be an astronaut- or anything else- if they reach for the stars!

The joy of this book is that it will appeal to children of different ages who will read it in different ways. There is much to explore in the illustrations, Granny and Luna’s story to follow, biographical information, labelled diagrams, fact boxes… it is possible to read it in small snippets or as a whole, thoroughly enjoying it however it is tackled. Asterisks are used to indicate definitions of some of the technical vocabulary used, clearly explaining words to support the reader’s understanding without spoiling the flow of the text.

Perfect for using as a guided reading text, to support learning about space, as the basis for investigative play or as a basis for a book group session full of fun activities, ‘We Are All Astronauts!’ makes an excellent addition to any bookshelf!

We are ALL Astronauts Kate Pankhurst

Bloomsbury ISBN: ‎ 978-1526615435

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.

Fly, Butterfly, Fly!

I love the ‘Wild Wanderers’ series by Dom Conlon and Anastasia Izlesou. Beautifully illustrated, each uses lyrical language to draw attention to the wonders of its subject. This book focuses on butterflies- the Cabbage White, in particular. Feeling herself too plain when compared to her more colourful cousins, she embarks on a journey, allowing the reader to accompany her around the world.

In each location, we meet butterflies who live there and learn about their natural beauty and the difficulties and dangers they experience. Back home, the Cabbage White’s colour allows her, unseen, to lay her eggs on the leaves of the cabbages ‘pebbling the fields all around’, completing the life cycle as they say ‘crawl, Caterpillar, crawl’ to her young.

I know I’m getting old, but my childhood memories are not only full of hot summers, but full of butterflies. Red Admirals, Painted Ladies, Small Tortoiseshells, Common Blues seemed to fill the gardens and hedgerows. Now, each sighting of one of these mini-marvels is a moment of celebration and so this book offers a wonderful way of introducing young readers to the different species which can be found across the world, hopefully sparking interest and developing a genuine concern for their well-being.

The descriptive, poetic language is a pleasure to read aloud and is a perfect starting point for further discovery. The use of Kennings- foot-taster, proboscis-drinker- draws attention to specific details whilst other phrases celebrates the beauty of the butterfly, but the whole text is full of information about these fascinating creatures. Each illustration is full of things to notice and explore and the book ends with a section on ‘Butterfly Facts’, an excellent starting point for discovering more. I look forward to finding out what Dom chooses to focus on next- or was ‘Crawl, Caterpillar, Crawl’ a clue?!

Fly, Butterfly, Fly!

Dom Conlon, illustrated by Anastasia Izlesou

Graffeg ISBN: 978-1802580785

You can read my review of ‘Grow, Tree, Grow!’ here, ‘Blow, Leap, Hare, Leap!’ here and ‘Swim, Shark, Swim!’ here.

Bedtime Stories…

In this vibrant collection, Rachel Pierce explores some events from Ireland’s remarkable history. Each story is told in its own chapter, beautifully illustrated by a range of talented Irish illustrators. Just the right length for a bedtime story, ‘Incredible Irish Tales from the Past’ is perfect for dipping in and out of anytime, for sharing or for reading alone.

The stories feature a great range of characters and events, each richly told. The reader can learn how Lorcán Ó Tuathail started out in life, how Colonel Thomas Blood tried to steal the Crown Jewels and how two pioneering young women became barristers. Each section ends with an idea for how to ‘Explore the Story’. This suggests a place to visit, a website to explore, a film to watch- ways of extending understanding of the people and places in the story.

Each illustrator brings their unique style to each story, making the book as attractive as it is informative. The collection would be an interesting choice for Guided Reading sessions, offering challenge and interest with plenty to investigate and explore whilst enjoying each story.

Bedtime Stories: Incredible Irish Tales from the Past

Rachel Pierce, illustrated by Donough O’Malley, Erin Brown, Eva Bryne, Jennifer Davison, Linda Fahrlin, Lydia Hughes, Roisin Hahessy and Una Woods

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702318542

This stunning collection of stories has been written and illustrated by those with heritage from across the Asian continent. As with the previous collection, each story is the perfect length for sharing at bedtime, but also to be enjoyed independently.

Each author brings their own style to the work just as each illustrator’s individuality shines through their art work. Here, the reader can learn about a Korean King- Sejong- who invented an alphabet, a monk who collected manuscripts and one of the most influential women in the Mongol Empire. It is a fascinating and engrossing collection of tales, full of inspiration.

A glossary at the end of each section supports the reader with unfamiliar vocabulary and terms. Like the previous book, this is a collection which would work so well for Guided Reading, full of some incredible stories, brilliantly told. Perfect for school or home!

Bedtime Stories: Amazing Asian Tales from the Past

Sufiya Ahmed, Maisie Chan, Shae Davies, Saima Mir, Bali Rai, Annabelle Sami, Rebeka Shaid, Cynthia So and Rekha Waheed.

illustrated by Ginnie Hsu, Aaliya Jaheel, Jocelyn Kao, Jennifer Khatun, Hannah Li, Debby Rahmalia, Abeeha Tariq, Kubra Teber, Tika and Tata and Amanda Yoshida.

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702316012

Journey Back to Freedom

Snatched from Essaka in Africa, Olaudah Equiano was captured and enslaved at the age of 11. Having spent time in Barbados and Virginia, he then spent the next eight years travelling the world as slave to a British Royal Navy officer, who renamed him Gustavus Vassa. His final master allowed him to buy his freedom for £40 which Equiano had raised through trading himself. Back in England, he eventually became a prominent member of the abolition movement, publishing his autobiography in 1789.

In ‘Journey Back to Freedom’, Catherine Johnson focuses on Equiano’s early life, although she adds further information in her afterword. Well known for her excellent historical writing and attention to detail, Catherine has used Olaudah’s autobiography as the basis for her work, imagining dialogue except in places where he states he is quoting from life.

This is a disturbing and emotive subject, but Catherine Johnson’s concise and matter of fact style means it is accessible to a younger audience. The horrors of slavery are evident throughout from Olaudah’s initial capture to the barbarity of the voyage, from his life at sea to the cruelty of the West Indies, but Catherine has managed to maintain a fine balance between including this information and being overly descriptive.

Throughout his sufferings, Olaudah’s determination to regain his freedom is incredible and this is a book which will encourage and initiate conversations, developing children’s understanding of the slave trade through Olaudah’s lived experiences. In her afterword, Catherine recognises that he was a complex character. He was against slavery yet he was involved in the trade. This moral ambiguity, the awful situations he found himself in - all of this will lead to thought-provoking, challenging discussions about this very difficult period of history.

Barrington Stoke once again proving their books are for everyone!

Journey Back to Freedom: The Olaudah Equiano Story

Catherine Johnson, illustrated by Katie Hickey

Barrington Stoke ISBN: 978-1781129227

You can read my review of ‘Race to the Frozen North: The Matthew Henson Story’ here.

Grow, Tree, Grow!

Oak grows taller each year, offering shelter and nourishment for hundreds of different creatures and plants. A section on ‘Tree Facts’ at the end of the book, offers fascinating facts about oaks and other trees, combining non-fiction with Dom’s poetic story.

‘Grow, Tree, Grow!’ depicts the life cycle of a tree from its first shoot to mighty oak to its decay. It explores the essential role it plays in the ecosystem- how it supports life and it needs the sun and the earth- as well as the impact of humans on forests, making it perfect for including in science lessons as well as for inspiring discussions.

Dom’s writing is beautifully lyrical. His use of kennings, alliteration, assonance, simile, personification make it a joy to read aloud and perfect for sharing. Anastasia’s vivid illustrations capture each scene, offering plenty of details to notice and encourage further discussion.

This is the fifth book in the ‘Wild Wanderers’ series (someone has ‘borrowed’ my copy of ‘Shine, Star, Shine!’) and forthcoming titles include ‘Fly, Butterfly, Fly!’ and ‘Flow, Water, Flow!’. These books make an excellent addition to bookshelves everywhere as they can be enjoyed by children (and adults!) of all ages.

Grow, Tree, Grow! Dom Conlon, illustrated by Anastasia Izlesou

Graffeg ISBN: 978-1802580761

What Do You See When You Look at a Tree?

What do you see when you look at a tree?

Leaves and twigs and branches?

Or do you see a living thing

that moves and breathes and dances?

In this lovely, large format book, author and illustrator, Emma Carlisle, urges the reader to reconnect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the trees around us. Through simple questions, the gentle rhyming text explores how unique trees are and the important role they play in nature.

The final pages offer further information about trees and how they communicate with each other, developing the reader’s understanding of these incredible plants. There are also mindfulness tips which show how we can learn from trees to look after ourselves and each others.

Every spread is beautifully illustrated, using soft, calming colours and they are perfect for exploring alongside the thoughtful questions posed by the text. The book is published in association with The Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew and the Palm House features in one of the pictures, perfect for introducing children to this historic place. The book is perfect for starting conversations about the wonder of trees whether at home or at school.

What Do You See When You Look at a Tree?

written and illustrated by Emma Carlisle

Big Picture Press with the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew

ISBN: 978- 1800781276

Slime? It’s Not Mine!

In his latest adventure, Lenny the lemur is having a wonderful time on holiday in California. Whilst swinging from the redwood trees, he suddenly finds himself covered in sticky, icky goo. Determined to find out who slimed him, Lenny sets off to identify the culprit and learns a lot about the other creature’s slimy habits along the way.

Following the format of ‘Poo! Is that You?’ and ‘Wee? It Wasn’t Me!’, ‘Slime? It’s Not Mine!’ is sure to be every bit as popular. Children love to join in with a resounding chorus of ‘Slime? It’s not Mine!’ as Lenny goes from one creature to the next to identify the slime. As he investigates, he learns much about the different uses for slime a whole host of creatures have - and there is additional information at the end of the story offering further explanation and detail. Lenny even tries to question some slime mould which is neither a plant nor an animal, but a mass of simple cells capable of moving- and according to the ‘Facts and Snaps!’, of solving mazes! The story offers an excellent starting point for finding out more about all these creatures and the California redwood.

Nicola O’Byrne’s illustrations are colourful and full of details to enjoy. Lenny’s expressions are wonderful as he finds himself dripping in sticky slime and discovers what the other creatures can do. The information section has a photograph of each creature which not only shows what they look like in real life, but what a talented artist Nicola is too.

These books are great fun and so engaging - I can’t wait to see what Lenny investigate next!

Slime? It’s Not Mine! Clare Helen Welsh, illustrated by Nicola O’Byrne

Macmillan ISBN: 978-1529064452

You can read my review of ‘Wee? It Wasn’t Me!’ here.