Fly: A child’s guide to birds and how to spot them

In the same series as ‘Glow: A child’s guide to the night sky’ and ‘Grow: A first guide to plants and how to grow them’, ‘Fly: A child’s guide to birds and how to spot them’ is another beautifully presented book from Magic Cat which seeks to engage children with the beauty and wonder of the world around them.

David Lindo, the Urban Birder, takes the reader on a journey of discovery, sharing his fascination with birds and seeking to engage the next generation of bird lovers. Each section focuses on an element relating to birds- feathers, wings, migration, various habitats- and introduces a specific bird in relation to this before looking at other birds and adaptations. There is also an ‘around the world’ section in which the author delves into the world of folklore and mythology, showing how cultures across the ages have been inspired by birds.

The book is beautifully presented with a clear introduction to each section, labelled diagrams and fact boxes. A clear glossary supports comprehension of technical terms whilst the contents page allows the reader to both browse for interest and locate specific information. Beautifully illustrated and packed with fascinating information, this book is sure to be a real hit with bird lovers and offer an amazing introduction for those who wish to know more.

Fly: A child’s guide to birds and how to spot them

David Lindo, illustrated by Sara Boccaccini Meadows

Magic Cat    ISBN: 978-1915569295

You can read my review of ‘Glow’ here and ‘The Extraordinary World of Birds’ by David Lindo here.

Glow: a child’s guide to the night sky

This beautifully presented book offers a fabulous combination of ancient and modern, science and story, resulting in a completely absorbing and informative read. The opening note from the author instantly fires the reader with her enthusiasm for, and interest in, the night sky and all the wonders it contains.

A clear table of contents makes it easy for the reader to locate the fifteen different topics covered, each with a sub-heading referring to it as the ‘hero of…’ something. This intriguing note is sure to spark curiosity in itself and once the reader has located the pages they have chosen, there is so much to discover! Information is clearly presented in accessible sections with clear headings and plenty of attractive illustrations. The reader is treated to a ‘brief history’ of each planet/star/celestial body where they can discover some of the fascinating myths, legends and beliefs from around the world which it has inspired. The book also offers guidance on how to locate the planet in the night sky- there is so much to enjoy here!

Written in a chatty, engaging tone, ‘Glow’ makes a challenging subject completely accessible and enjoyable. It would make an excellent addition to any book collection to support children learning about space in school, but is also perfect non-fiction to inspire reading for pleasure.

Glow: A Child’s Guide to the Night Sky

Noelia Gonzalez, illustrated by Sara Boccaccini Meadows

Magic Cat ISBN: 978-1913520786