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.
A World of Cats
I love most animals, but I have always been fascinated by felines and have shared my home - and my heart- with many cats over the years. In her introduction, Carlie Sorosiak says her first word was ‘kitty’; mine was ‘Sarah’ (or an approximation!), the name of our blue-cream Persian!
‘A World of Cats’ is perfect for cat-lovers like me, but also makes an absorbing read for anyone! Starting with the development of cats as we know them today, the book then considers the similarities and differences between big cats like lions with house cats. After a look at how they became domesticated, the book explores all aspects of a cat’s life and habits. The information is presented in a light-hearted, chatty style, making it accessible and easy to read as well as engaging!
Celebrating cats in history, the book looks at their role in ancient Egypt and tales of cats from the past as well as their place in the present- including Larry, the Chief Mouser of Number 10 Downing Street! There is so much to discover and enjoy about our feline friends and the contributions they make to our daily lives.
Advice on careers with cats will offer inspiration whilst guidance about what to do if you should find a stray cat or if you feel you could offer a cat a ‘forever home’ will help readers to care for any cats they might come across. A treasure trove of cat facts, stories, advice and information, ‘A World of Cats’ is essential reading!
A World of Cats
Carlie Sorosiak, illustrated by Luisa Uribe
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805136132
You can read my review of ‘A World of Dogs’ here
A World of Dogs
This beautifully illustrated book would make the perfect gift for any dog lover. Carlie Sorosiak’s passion for pooches is evident on every page as she shares a wealth of fascinating facts and amazing tales (or should that be tails!) about our canine companions.
Having unwittingly adopted an American Dingo, Carlie set out to find out as much as she could about her new pet so that she could properly care for her- and this sets the tone for the whole book. There is so much respect and care shown for dogs in this book- so much to learn- that is it sure to be as fascinating for those who know little about dogs as it is for those who share their lives with them. Having grown up with Retrievers- Flat Coats and Goldies- I read the whole book from cover to cover, frequently exclaiming or pausing to bore my husband with anecdotes sparked by the information and stories contained here.
As well as explaining how dogs have come to be loyal human companions and explaining how their doggy senses work, the book includes real-life stories about the bravery and devotion of heroic dogs and the many ways in which they support humans every day. Each spread is beautifully illustrated, and the information clearly presented in easily digested sections of text. A comprehensive index and glossary make the book very easy to use for research as well as an excellent text to be read for pleasure!
A World of Dogs
Carlie Sorosiak, illustrated by Luisa Uribe
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839948497
You can read my review of ‘I, Cosmo’ here.
