NNFN2024: Wildlife in the Balance

‘Wildlife in the Balance’ is a superb book, offering careful explanations, presented in an attractive, accessible manner. From teachers looking for excellent resources to support their students’ learning to those with a general interest in wildlife, there is much to learn and enjoy here.

Having explained what an ecosystem is and shown examples located on the world map, the book then gives clear, concise information about food chains and webs before explaining what ‘keystone species’ are, the researchers who identified them and the important role they play in maintaining nature’s balance. Twelve keystone species are then focused on, with examples offered from each continent, each beautifully illustrated.

A final section offers advice on how keystone species can be supported . A comprehensive glossary helps readers gain a good understanding of technical terms whilst the index allows the book to be used for research as well as it being a wonderful book to read for pleasure, extending knowledge beyond the curriculum and sparking interest in the natural world.

Wildlife in the Balance: The Species that Shape Earth’s Ecosystems

Dr Sharon Wismer, illustrated by Terri Po

Flying Eye ISBN: 978-1838741570

NNFN2024: The Children’s Book of Wildlife Watching

Day 4 of National Non-Fiction November 2024! ‘The Children’s Book of Wildlife Watching’ is a companion to ‘The Children’s Book of Birdwatching’ and both are perfect for encouraging new interests in young children. ‘Wildlife Watching’ introduces readers to the wonderful world of wildlife which surrounds us and shows how much can be learned from observing nature around us.

A mixture of beautiful photographs and illustrations support the text, making each page full of appeal and interest to little explorers. Information is presented in clear, well-explained sections, signposted by headings and side-headings to guide the reader and there is a glossary at the end of the book. There are sections on minibeasts, reptiles and amphibians, birds and mammals, allowing families to focus on different species to investigate, perhaps led by the area they live in or a place they are visiting. There is much here that would also be useful to teachers setting up investigation spaces or themed activities for their classes.

Each section offers a practical activity which is both clearly explained and easy to undertake. These projects are supported by profiles of a range of creatures, each accompanied by a clear photograph to aid identification. A profile of the author is also presented at the end of the book, a lovely touch, allowing readers to see the ‘real’ person behind the work and also to convey a real enthusiasm for her subject!

A brilliant addition to home or school libraries, ‘The Children’s Book of Wildlife Watching’ offers an excellent starting point for inspiring a new hobby and building a life-long love of the world around us.

The Children’s Book of Wildlife Watching

Dan Rouse

DK ISBN: 978-0241661819