NNFN2024: Volcano Atlas

I have taught the topic of ‘Volcanoes’ many times during my teaching career and really wish that I had had ‘Volcano Atlas’ to support both me in my teaching and my classes in their learning! Offering a very comprehensive and readable guide, it offers a brilliant guide to volcanoes around the world.

Starting with a general introduction, the book then explains how volcanoes form, the different types that there are and their features. A mixture of labelled diagrams, illustrations and photographs are used on each spread to support the information with headings and side headings to help readers navigate the text.

Each volcano is then introduced with a fact file and a satellite image to show its location. Information about the wildlife, myths and legends and historical details connected to that volcano is also included along with specific facts. The volcanoes are organised continent by continent and a comprehensive index makes it easy for the reader to locate information, although it is an easy book to enjoy browsing through as there is so much to discover and enjoy here.

An invaluable resource for teachers, ‘Volcano Atlas’ would make an excellent addition to any library. A real must have!

Volcano Atlas: An Epic Journey Around the World’s Most Incredible Volcanoes

Tom Jackson, illustrated by Maggie Li

Words and Pictures ISBN: 978-0711283787

NNFN2023: Let’s Play

The importance of play, both free and imaginative and guided, cannot be underestimated - and yet, it seems to be something on the decline. Developing teamwork, independence, resilience, empathy… there are so many reasons why it should be encouraged and this fabulous book is perfect for home or school.

The fact that these games are taken from across the world only adds to its appeal. Some may be familiar or a twist on those already known whilst others might be completely new. Each game is carefully explained with step-by-step instructions and illustrations. Some are for playing independently, others for playing with friends- all could be adapted with a little imagination! Extra challenges and suggestions are also included, extending the fun. Children can be encouraged to look at a map of the world to locate the country of origin for the game, making connections and realising how much people have in common!

This is a brilliant resource, not only for home, but also school. Encouraging dinner staff as well as anyone on playground duty to organise a few games is always a brilliant thing to do, making playtimes more enjoyable for the staff on duty as well as engaging children. There are activities here which could also be used during wet playtimes or indoor play. A spread at the end of the book encourages children to think about developing their own games.

A brilliant, inspiring book!

Let’s Play!

Nancy Dickmann, illustrated by Monica Andino

Words and Pictures ISBN: 978-0711283756