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: Flight: From a Balloon to the Moon – and Beyond

I apologise for the absence of pictures from this post. Squarespace is useless and keeps changing things. It currently will not allow me to add images, although yesterday, there was no problem with this.

From the story of Brother Elmer, a flying monk, to looking towards a greener future for the aviation industry, ‘Flight’ offers a completely absorbing look at the history of flying through the stories of the men and women whose achievements helped its development.

Each story is attractively presented, starting with a full-page illustration by Terri Po and the date and location of each is given under the title. The courage, creativity and passion of these pioneers is celebrated as their adventures are recounted and the author includes information about other developments in each field and other pioneers who achieved them.

Whether you are someone interested in aviation or not, ‘Flight’ is a fascinating read. Names like the Wright Brothers, Louis Blériot and Queen Bess are probably familiar to many, but the book also includes the stories of people like a nameless ten-year-old boy, persuaded by George Cayley to fly the glider he had designed, who is thought to be the first person to fly a plane anywhere in the world! Another less familiar name is that of Katherine Stinson, who became the first female pilot authorised by the American government to carry mail by air and went on to stunt-flying.

‘Flight’ takes the reader through history up to the most recent developments in flying experience. The book closes with the development of SpaceShipOne and challenges the reader to reflect on the environmental impact of flight and rocket launches, finishing with a section on the possibilities of ‘greener’ flight.

Perfect for enriching the primary curriculum, developing an interest in aviation or for discovering more about key players in this field, ‘Flight’ make an excellent addition to any library or bookshelf.

Flight: From a Balloon to the Moon – and Beyond

David Long, illustrated by Terri Po

Faber    ISBN: 978-0571374793