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: Into the Volcano

Offering a comprehensive introduction to volcanoes, ‘Into the Volcano’ is an accessible and absorbing read. The book starts by explaining what a volcano is, how they are formed and where in the world they are located. Concise and clearly written, this- and the next which looks at unusual volcanoes (those underwater, in space and those which cause strange eruptions) -section is perfect for supporting children studying volcanoes in KS2, for teachers teaching about them- and indeed, for anyone with an interest in the subject!

The next two sections of the book are devoted to exploring the cultural significance of volcanoes, offering richness and colour to the subject, taking it beyond the confines of the curriculum. Through looking at the stories, myths and legends connected to volcanoes, readers discover how they have shaped the beliefs of people around the world, including a creation story of the Māori people, the Hawaiian volcano goddess, Pele and the Icelandic sorceress, Katia. Volcanoes have also influence the arts. Readers are sure to be inspired to seek out some of the works of art mentioned and be fascinated by the story behind the quality of the sound of a Stradivarius violin!

The book concludes with a chapter on living with volcanoes today, learning from the past and valuing the gifts volcanoes offer as well as respecting them. Beautifully illustrated throughout, ‘Into the Volcano’ offers so much more than the science behind these amazing natural wonders, making it a fascinating and very readable addition to any bookshelf.

Into the Volcano

Catherine Ard, illustrated by Wenjia Tang

Flying Eye ISBN: 978-1838741754

You can read my review of ‘Yellowstone’ by Catherine Ard here.

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

You can read my review of ‘Passionate about Penguins’ here , ‘Fanatical about Frogs’ here, ‘Obsessive about Octopuses’ here ‘Bonkers about Beetles’ here and ‘Crazy about Cats’ here.

Is It a Seed?

When two children discover a seed, they plant it and then start to wonder what it might become. Will it be a flower? A tree? Or a magic beanstalk?

Celebrating the power of the imagination, ‘Is It a Seed?’ is an absolute joy of a book! As the children in the story chat excitedly about their treasure, they build on each other’s ideas, allowing their imaginations to run riot. They draw on stories they know, combining and creating their own visions and exploring a world of possibilities in the way children do when allowed the time and space to play and imagine! The illustrations bring their ideas vividly to life, adding plenty of details to enjoy and explore. Readers are sure to offer their own ideas, using their own experiences reading and TV/film watching to enrich and adapt their suggestions.

The book is also perfect for inspiring interest in growing seeds and watching ‘something amazing’ happen. The end papers capture the flourishing of the imagination, but page by page, there are changes in the family’s garden, showing them planting and nurturing seeds and plants through the seasons. As time passes, sharp eyed children are sure to also notice that mum is pregnant in one picture and then seen holding a baby in another! The imagination offers them immediate gratification, but their little seed takes time and patience to blossom.

‘Is It a Seed?’ is sure to become a firm story time favourite, at home and at school, perfect for sharing and then reading and re-reading/ picture browsing independently, wallowing in imaginative dreams and creating stories of their own. An absolute joy!

Is It a Seed?

Emily Ann Davison, illustrated by Adriena Fong

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838741587

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.

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: A Jungle in Your Living Room

‘A Jungle in Your Living Room’ is a beautifully illustrated, highly engaging book, sure to inspire everyone to transform their homes into lush, verdant space. Divided into three sections- All About Houseplants, The World of Houseplants and Houseplant Care -it offers excellent advice and guidance for anyone who wishes to create, and care for, their own indoor garden.

The first section starts by defining what is meant by a house plant and looks at how plants are classified before considering the best places to grow them. There is also plenty of fascinating background and historical information, including the creation of the ‘Wardian Case’, a portable greenhouse which allowed plants to be safely transported and the role this then played as ‘houseplant hunters’ travelled around the world to collect specimens, often causing damage to the local environment.

The section entitled ‘The World of Houseplants’ is the longest one, introducing a wonderful range of plants. Not only are explanations of the different types given, but care tips, historical facts, links to religions and traditional usages are also explored. These pages are interspersed with DIY ideas such as a desert garden, a macrame plant hanger and how to grow a bonsai tree. Perfect for engaging and challenging young and old alike, there are some really interesting and rewarding ideas, supported by clear instructions.

‘Houseplant Care’ is, as the title suggests, a very useful section concerned with making sure the plants are kept in top condition. Advice on what to look for when choosing a plant, pet safety and identifying problems is all given in clear, concise points, ensuring success. Propagation is also carefully explained with DIY projects on water propagation and making leaf cuttings. A guide is given to support readers in selecting plants appropriate to their level of experience and expertise and a comprehensive glossary explains many of the terms used in the book. Clear contents and index pages make the book easy to navigate and locate specific information- but this is a wonderful book for dipping in and out of and browsing to discover something new!

Although a very practical guide, there is much here which supports sections of the primary science curriculum and does much to enrich and enliven it. Colourful, playful illustrations add much to the book’s charm, making this a must have for home and school.

A Jungle in Your Living Room: A Guide to Creating Your Own Houseplant Collection

Michael Holland, illustrated by Philip Giordano

Flying Eye ISBN: 978-1838748630

Flying Eye produce many gorgeous information books. You can read my review of ‘Bonkers About Beetles’ here, which has links to reviews of ‘Passionate About Penguins’, ‘Fanatical About Frogs’, ‘Crazy About Cats’ and ‘Obsessive About Octopuses’. You can read my review of ‘Curious Creatures Talking Together’ here which has a link to ‘Curious Creatures Working With Tools’, ‘Please Don’t Bite Me’ here, ‘Scientists in the World: Galapagos’ here and ‘Earth’s Incredible Places: Amazon River’ here which has links to reviews of other books in the series.

The Secret Lives of Dragons

Written by international dragon expert and professor at the World School of Dragons, Zoya Agnis, this book offers all you need to know about dragons. Organised into four clear sections, it explores what a dragon is, the different types of dragon across the world, ancient dragon history and the study of drackenosophy.

Dragons are endlessly fascinating creatures which never cease to excite the imagination. Written as if a factual account, this guide to dragons looks at some of the most famous myths and legends as well as offering information about dragon life-cycles and habitats, their evolution and anatomy. Each spread is lavishly illustrated, full of detail and creativity.

Not only is this the perfect book for children who love fantasy, it makes a wonderful text for teachers to use as a model for imaginative writing about other creatures- perhaps a guide about phoenixes or centaurs. Other tales about dragons could be collected to create a class anthology- and all decorated with illustrations inspired by those in this book!

The series includes other guides- one for mermaids and one for unicorns- and I look forward to seeing what comes next!

The Secret Lives of Dragons

Prof Zoya Agnis, illustrated by Alexander Utkin

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838741174

Out in paperback on the 7th September 2023

Please Don’t Bite Me

Buzzing with irritating insects, this fascinating book allows the reader to find out more about mosquitoes, lice, wasps, cockroaches, fleas, and bedbugs, creatures which have annoyed people for centuries. Starting with an introduction which defines what an insect is and explains what entomologists (those who study insects) are, the book then investigates each insect in turn.

From their appearance to their life cycles, the book offers a detailed look each of these insects, including their relationship with humans through the ages. I have only ever once seen a cockroach when in Greece- and am even more determined never to see one again having read the information in the book! Despite all their irritating and disgusting ways, the author manages to sound quite fond of them, certainly piquing the reader’s curiosity!

Owen Davey has worked his magic with the illustrations once more, making the book as visually appealing as it is fascinating. Each spread is beautifully presented, colourful and engaging, making this a very tempting and informative read with a glossary, index and content making it useful for locating information. An excellent read!

Please Don’t Bite Me: Insects that Buzz, Bite and Stong

Nazzy Pakpour, illustrated by Owen Davey

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838740900

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.

Bonkers About Beetles

With a paperback edition being released in August, it’s time to remind everyone why we should be ‘Bonkers About Beetles’. In his wonderful ‘About’ series, Owen Davey has inspired children to learn more about cats, octopuses, sharks, penguins, monkeys, crocodiles and frogs with each book full of his fabulous illustrations, gentle humour and fascinating facts.

The book is perfectly pitched to engage and inform primary aged children. Text is presented in short, accessible sections, with clear side headings to help navigate each spread. Having defined what is meant by ‘beetle’, the book goes on to explore their structure, lifecycle, habitats and diets amongst many other things. Headings like ‘You can run but you can’t hide’, ‘Love You and Leaf You’ and ‘Let the Good Times Roll’ are sure to catch the eye and pique interest and there are some completely fascinating details included!

One of my favourite things about this series is the inclusion of a section on the mythology of the focus creature. Here we learn about the sacred scrab beetle of the Ancient Egyptians, the Irish Devil’s coach horse beetle, Maya folklore about the maquech beetle and superstition surrounding the death watch beetle.

Although the hardback editions are gorgeous, the paperback edition is sure to be popular with schools and is a wonderful addition to bookshelves and libraries! Perfect for budding coleopterists!

Bonkers About Beetles Owen Davey

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838741532

Paperback out on the 3rd August 2023

You can read my review of ‘Passionate about Penguins’ here , ‘Fanatical about Frogs’ here, ‘Obsessive about Octopuses’ here and ‘Crazy about Cats’ here.

Earth’s Incredible Places: Amazon River

Like the other books in the ‘Earth’s Amazing Places’ series, ‘Amazon River’ is a beautifully illustrated text, perfect for supporting working in KS2/3 or for browsing independently. Starting with an introduction that gives an overview about this amazing river, the book is then divided into four clear sections: From Source to Sea, Wildlife of the Riverbank, People of the Rainforest and Life on the River.

Clear side headings and succinct, accessible section of text make this a very readable and engaging book and an index and glossary help to make it a useful resource for research as well. Additionally, there are notes at the end of the book to support teachers with ideas for four possible topics for investigation and suggestions for further reading.

The book is a fascinating read from start to finish, celebrating the diversity and wonders of the Amazon, including the indigenous people of the area and some of their myths and legends. Each spread is stunning with colourful illustrations bringing the detailed text to life. Completely absorbing, there really is something for everyone to learn and enjoy here.

Earth’s Incredible Places: Amazon River

Sangma Francis, illustrated by Romolo D’Hipolito

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838741464

You can read my review of Earth’s Incredible Places: Yellowstone here, Earth’s Incredible Places: Everest here and The Great Barrier Reef here.

Ning and the Night Spirits

A little boy called Ning lives in Long Shan Valley where every night his family light lamps to scare away the night spirits. Although he really wants to find out more about the spirits, Ning cannot ask the other children as they seem every bit as scary as any night spirit. Hearing his parents worrying about him, Ning heads off into the forest where he meets a night spirit who is anything, but scary. They quickly become friends and Ning meets other amazing creatures and spirits which live in the forest. Finding that they are hiding in the forest because they are scared of people, Ning knows he must find the courage - and the words- to help them.

Perfect for sharing at home or at school, ‘Ning and the Night Spirits’ is, like all Flying Eye publications, a beautifully produced book, tempting readers to pick it up and explore the story within.

Ning is a quiet child who is unsure around other children, lacking the confidence to talk to them. In order to help the creatures of the forest, he has to overcome his fears and find a way to make himself heard. The story is sure to make readers empathise with Ning and encourage discussions about how the children might have been able to support him with overcoming his fears. This might lead to conversations about other fears and seeking ways to tackle these.

The story also shows how easily misconceptions can arise as both the villagers and the creatures of the forest believe they have something to fear from the unknown. It takes Ning to bring the two sides together and explain the misunderstanding on each side, encouraging a celebration of their differences as they learn more about each other. Children might also notice that the animals have been driven away from their natural habitat by the actions of humans- again, leading to discussions about the world around us and being thoughtful towards, and respectful of, everything that lives in it.

Each spread is wonderfully illustrated, with lots of details to notice and enjoy. The spirits and the creatures Ning meets are perfect for sparking imagination and encouraging children to create their own whilst the map on the end papers (showing the change in Ning at the end!) is perfect for using as support for plotting stories in Ning’s world.

A delightful story!

Ning and the Night Spirits Adriena Fong

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1913123161

Luna and the Treasure of Tlaloc

This is the latest of the legendary stories about Professor Brownstone’s ancestors. Luna’s story is somewhat different as she was the most devious of the Brownstones, taught by bitter experience that helping others solve their problems can cause problems and so resolved to only look out for herself. She quickly amassed a more riches than she could count until a chance meeting with a young girl called Atzi lead her on a quest which changed everything…

The ‘Brownstone’s Mythical Collection’ books have been a huge hit since the first story, ‘Arthur and the Golden Rope’ appeared. Each story sees the Brownstone ancestors in a different setting, with their adventure offering historic and mythological details. I love these stories and have used them regularly, very successfully in schools, with children finding them accessible and engaging, enjoying the plentiful illustrations. This latest adventure sees Luna’s hunt for riches lead her to Aztec lands and the great rain god, Tlaloc. This setting adds enrichment to historical and mythological learning as it is sure to spark children’ interest in period not taught as part of the KS2 history curriculum.

In addition to the setting, the story reminds the reader that each person has the ability to change, to reassess their choices, and about the importance of thinking of others. Due to her experiences, Luna sets on a path of selfish interest, determined not to be hurt or vulnerable again. There is so much to discuss here as the story unfolds, so many points at which children could use drama and role play to deepen their understanding of the characters, places which lend themselves to writing in role and so many illustrations which cry out to be lingered over and enjoyed… As you can tell, I love ‘Luna and the Treasure of Tlaloc’ and cannot wait to use it with children in school. However, gift as it is for teachers, it is also a fabulous story to be enjoyed as a great independent read and is a must have for all bookshelves (along with the rest of the collection!).

Luna and the Treasure of Tlaloc Joe Todd-Stanton

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838740801

Out in June!

Fanatical About Frogs

This ever-popular series is perfect for animal lovers or anyone curious about creatures. From cats to crocodile, bats to beetles, each book in this brilliant collection offers a fascinating overview to a particular species. ‘Fanatical about Frogs’ first appeared in hardback in 2019 and this May, will be available in paperback.

A clear contents and detailed index (which includes the binomial classification of each species) make the book easy to navigate if trying to locate specific information, but with its stunning illustrations and bite-sized chunks of text, it is perfect for browsing through and discovering more about these intriguing creatures. Having explained what frogs are ( I had no idea all toads are frogs, but not all frogs are toads!) and where they are found in the world, the book looks at their physical attributes, diet and the variety of pigmentations and patterns frogs can have. There is so much here that I did not know about these fascinating amphibians!

A section on mythology introduces the reader to some traditional tales from around the world which feature frogs. The book closes with information about the problems frogs are facing around the world with around a third of known species being under threat and over 100 now considered extinct.

Endlessly engaging and beautifully presented, ‘Fanatical about Frogs’ is an excellent addition to any bookshelf!

Fanatical about Frogs Owen Davey

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838741518

You can read my review of ‘Passionate about Penguins’ here.

Farah Loves Mangos

Farah loves mangos. She loves them so much that she even reads them stories…before eating them! Every year, the ancient tree in her grandfather’s big backyard is laden with fruit which they gather with the help of Mali the dog. One summer, however, the tree does not yield any mangos and no matter what Farah tries. She declares that without mangos the tree is useless, but Grandpa, who she thought was doing nothing, puts her on the swing he has been making. As she swings up into the branches, Farah realises the tree is teeming with life and it’s worth looking at things in new ways.

What a delicious and delightful book! The illustrations are completely fabulous- full of humour and detail, they complement the text perfectly, creating a story which is a joy to read! Farah’s love of mangos has led her to overlook the bounty and joys the tree apart from its fruit. She has never paused to notice the ‘life of the tree’ or to value the tree for anything other than mangos. The story offers so much to reflect upon and discuss and could lead to children- and adults - taking the time to look at many things in different ways, valuing them for what they are and not just for what they give.

I love the way in which her Grandpa quietly continues making a swing, allowing her to try and solve the problem herself. And boy, does she try! His solution is to show her the wonders of the tree by making her a swing to both play on and see the tree anew from. Sarthak Sinha has beautifully captured this loving relationship throughout the book, but for me, the last two illustrations say everything!

They say a picture is worth a thousand words and ‘Farah Loves Mangos’ absolutely proves this! There is so much to linger over in each spread as the illustrations add to the humour and magic of the story with so many details to notice. This is a gorgeous book!

Farah Loves Mangos Sarthak Sinha

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838741365

Earth’s Incredible Places: Yellowstone

Covering an area of nearly 3,500 square miles, Yellowstone is home to a rich variety of wildlife, the largest volcano in America and boasts the world’s greatest display of hot springs. This fascinating location is fully explored in this excellent new addition to Flying Eye’s ‘Earth’s Incredible Places’ series.

The books starts by exploring Yellowstone’s long history of human visitors, celebrating the mix of Native American cultures and tribes who visited the area before European settlers came to the area in the 1800s. On March 1st 1872, it was created a national park- the world’s first- by the President.

The formation of the park’s geysers and other features like hot springs and fumaroles is carefully explained. Each section is fully illustrated, beautifully capturing the natural wonders of the park and the wonderful wildlife which call it their home. A whole section is devoted to the animals and birds of the park, their habitats and interactions. The book introduces the reader to ‘mistakes of the past’ in which wolves, much feared and demonised, were poisoned, trapped and hunted until there were non left in the park. Realising the important role they played in keeping nature in balance, wolves were reintroduced into the park in the 1990s and are now thriving in the park once more. There is so much to learn in these pages, making the book a fascinating read.

The book finishes with a section about the park today, the employees who work there, the millions who visit it and the impact on the landscape caused by climate change. It is perfect for finding out more about Yellowstone whether for interest, research or in anticipation of a visit. A comprehensive index and glossary make information quick and easy to locate and discover more about this incredible place!

Earth’s Incredible Places: Yellowstone

Catherine Ard, illustrated by Bianca Austria

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838748652

You can read my review of Everest here.

The Laugh

Once there was a lady who had the loveliest laugh in the world.

This lady’s laugh takes many forms from quiet giggles to explosive belly laughs. Her laughter is contagious, creating many special moments shared with a little girl. One day, however, she becomes ill, and although she can’t laugh, there is still a smile in her eyes. When she dies, it seems the laughter has gone with her and the little girl is left with a huge hole in the world where it had been…

Both poignant and up-lifting, ‘The Laugh’ is a gorgeous celebration of a special relationship. Although never specified, the lady and child appear to be mother and daughter and though both pictures and words, their relationship is beautifully captured. The little girl looks in adoration at the lady as they are shown sharing many joyful moments together and the mother cocoons her child in love. The little girl associates the sound of laughter in all its forms with the lady, reflecting the happiness they find together. Although a father figure is also included- and there is no doubt that they are a loving family together- it is the special bond between mother and daughter which is celebrated here.

And then comes the loss. Her decline is captured simply and powerfully and the spread showing father and child clinging to each other by the empty bed speaks volumes, evoking empathy and, perhaps, encouraging discussion. In the days that follow, they make an effort to continue with their lives, but the book acknowledges that the joy seems to have left them: they can’t…won’t…don’t want to or know how to move on with their lives whilst everyone around them seems to be doing just that, but the story ends with a ray of hope. One day, something happens and quite spontaneously, laughter returns. It is perfect for acknowledging the grief of loss whilst showing that it is natural to be able to continue and be happy again afterwards. Reassuring and heartfelt, it reminds the reader that we never truly lose the ones we love.

The Laugh

Fay Evans, illustrated by Ayse Klinge

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838740825

Earth’s Incredible Places: Everest

Welcome to Mount Everest…

Most people have heard of Mount Everest and could probably tell you that it is the highest mountain on Earth and that people strive to ‘conquer’ it by climbing to its peak. From this absorbing book, there is so much more to learn about this fascinating place. With mountains being an area for study in the primary Geography curriculum, this is an essential addition to topic boxes and school libraries as well as for any budding mountaineer or explorer - armchair or otherwise!

The book opens with an explanation of how the Himalayas formed, their location and the various names Everest and her sister mountains have been given. There are many myths and legends associated with the mountains and a selection of these are included here, scattered amongst information about the flora and fauna and the people who live here.

Information about climbers and their determination to ‘conquer’ Everest is also included. The perils to be faced and the equipment used and invented to tackle the challenge are explored as the book introduces the reader to some of the people who have taken the challenge and have pushed themselves to the very limit to climb this mountain. The less appealing subject of the damage humans are doing to this special place by the waste they leave behind is also explored. The book closes with some learning resources to support teachers and parents/ carers to enjoy using it with children. An excellent resource, packed with information!

Earth’s Incredible Places: Everest

Sangma Francis, illustrated by Lisk Feng

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838741457