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.
NNFN2024: Tasty Tales
My first review for NNFN2024 is ‘Tasty Tales’, a fascinating book which offers ‘facts and fables about our favourite foods’. Each story explores the origin of a well-known dish, piquing the reader’s interest in countries and events from around the world which they might previously have been unaware of. It is a fascinating read - a book for school and home!
Using a light-hearted and engaging style, the stories are accompanied by the author’s bright, colourful illustrations which add much to the book’s appeal. A map at the beginning shows where in the world each food is from and a bibliography is included for those who wish to discover more. I really wish more children’s books would offer this! Some recipes to try are also offered on the author’s website which makes the book even more engaging.
‘Tasty Tales’ would be excellent to use for a series of assemblies. From locating places/ countries/continents on a map to developing general knowledge, they also encourage curiosity in the wider world and allow children to recognise the connections between people as they share these ingredients and dishes and deepen their understanding of others. It might also encourage children to try some foods which they might not have done otherwise!
Full of historical details and the wonderful legends which have developed about some of these foods, ‘Tasty Tales’ is a great example of the stories non-fiction books tell us!
Tasty Tales: Facts and Fables about our Favourite Foods
Anna Lena Feunekes
UCLan ISBN: 978-1915235923
Author, Anna Lena Feunekes, shared this video with us for NNFN2024.
A Story of the Seasons
‘A Story of the Seasons’ is another beautifully produced collaboration from Nosy Crow and the National Trust. Lettering capturing elements of the changing seasons surrounded by creatures, birds, insects and flowers stands out against the matt cream background of the cover, instantly tempting the reader inside whilst attention to detail - such as a purple ribbon bookmark and the green edging of the pages - all add to the special feel of the book, making it a gift to treasure!
The content of the book is just as well presented and engaging. The introduction explains that the book looks at the changing nature of eight habitats through the seasons of the year, exploring the life cycles and habits of the creatures who live there. What follows is a real celebration of the natural world with the enthusiasm of the author encouraging readers to pause, enjoy and explore nature around them. Accessible sections of text offer facts and clearly written explanations with headings and side headings, guiding the reader and helping them to locate information.
The book is bursting with information, but also offers plenty of inspiration, encouraging active engagement with nature- noticing the first signs of spring, looking for different birds on an estuary, enjoying the park in winter. There are also historical details, references to poetry and folklore- all of which offers an enriching reading experience for all ages to enjoy, all complemented by beautiful illustrations. This is a book for families to share throughout the year- a book which will develop family traditions for experiencing and enjoying the wonders of nature.
A Story of the Seasons
Anna Wilson, illustrated by Carilina Rabei
National Trust and Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805130031
University of Cambridge: There's No Such Thing as a Silly Question
One of my favourite phrases as a teacher (and as a mum!) is always ‘there’s no such thing as a silly question’ which obviously led to children asking me some very weird and wonderful things! However, it is through asking those questions that curiosity is both satisfied and piqued, making ‘There’s No Such Thing as a Silly Question’ a brilliant book for both home and school!
Covering a wide range of subjects, each brilliantly illustrated spread presents the information in a question-and-answer format, offering readers clear explanations, written in a light-hearted, humorous style. There are questions here which you didn’t know you needed to know the answer to until you read them! Can spiders run out of web? Why don’t people snore when they are awake? What happens inside a black hole?
A very attractive and accessible book, this is perfect for dipping in and out of, but it is impossible not to spot a question which you just have to read the answer for! Although a supposed to be a book for children, ‘There’s No Such Thing as a Silly Question’ is sure to quickly become a family favourite, to be returned to again and again.
University of Cambridge: There's No Such Thing as a Silly Question
Mike Rampton & Guilherme Karsten
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839947391
Life in the Wild
‘Life in the Wild’ is a fascinating book. In her note, the author describes it as ‘an intersection between science, story telling, adventure and conservation’ and it does indeed reflect all of these areas, making it a very accessible and enjoyable read.
Each chapter is devoted to an exceptional individual of different species, tagged and tracked by scientists to deepen understanding of their behaviour. Ten creatures are introduced followed by a map showing where they live and, in most cases, a tracked journey which they made. General information about the species is included and, for some, further information about conservation work is also given.
There are many books about animals available, but what makes this really stand out from others is the personal connection it offers. By sharing the real plight of 20741, a female adult polar bear, the reader feels a deeper empathy as the story of one illuminates the struggles of the many. The unique behaviours of each creature is sure to intrigue children and develop their interest in the incredible wildlife of our planet.
A wide range of animals is covered here, including some which perhaps get less exposure. Through the story of Sitka, readers learn of the rapid population decline of albatrosses whilst Bigonia’s tale offers a fascinating look at these intelligent, solitary creatures. Advances in technology have allowed scientists to learn more – and yet expose just how much still is unknown.
Each spread is beautifully presented using a mixture of photographs and illustrations, making the book as attractive as it is informative. A glossary and index are included and study references are also offered, allowing those who wish the opportunity to explore further.
Life in the Wild
Lizzie Daly, illustrated by Chiara Fedele
DK ISBN: 978- 0241634110
Blog Tour: Open Wide!
Today, it’s my turn to dive into the ‘jaw-dropping mouths of the animal world’ on the ‘Open Wide!’ Blog Tour.
Let’s start by asking a few questions. Do you know which creature has fangs that fold flat to stop it accidentally biting itself? No? What about which creature can extend its tongue one-and-a-half times its body length? Me neither! If you don’t know, then this is the book you need!
From its tasty introduction onwards, ‘Open Wide!’ is bursting with those quirky and fascinating facts which children love to discover and share! Starting with human teeth (Science NC Y4: identify the different types of teeth in humans and their simple functions), the book moves to the commonalities of mammalian mouths before moving on to the eating habits of slugs and snails. I now know what a ‘radula’ is!
The contents page is full of tempting titles like ‘Tremendous Tusks’ and Gigantic Grins’, making the book perfect for dipping in and out of: however, it is very easy to be led from page to page as there are intriguing questions posed at the bottom of some which you just have to turn over to find the answer to! I wanted to know if I was right about how the Barbary macaques were feeling -I wasn’t!- but I was more successful with guessing which coloured tongue belonged to which animal.
Whilst the book is mainly illustrated by Ed J Brown, some photographs are also included, allowing children to see the sucker of a goby and krill up close amongst other things. One of the most popular features of the text will no doubt be the ‘Not for the Squeamish’ fact boxes which regularly appear containing those disgusting facts which children love to quote- usually in the middle of a lesson!
Having both an index and glossary, ‘Open Wide!’ will be a useful resource for teachers keen to enrich the science curriculum with fascinating facts about teeth, diet, food chains, habitats etc, perhaps using the quiz sheet available on the ‘What on Earth’ website along with some other resources for this title.
A really absorbing read!
Open Wide!
Dr Letizia Diamante and Ed J Brown
What on Earth ISBN: 978-1804661352
Blog Tour: First Big Book of How
I am delighted to be taking part in the Blog Tour for ‘First Big Book of How’! Children are always bursting with natural curiosity about the world around them and this beautifully presented, chunky volume is the perfect place for them to find the answers they are looking for!
The book is divided into six clear sections: The Body, Machines and Buildings, Wild Animals, Bugs and Creepy Crawlies, Earth and Space. A contents page lists all the questions posed in each section and there is a comprehensive index at the end to help locate specific information, but this is a book which is perfect for browsing! A clear explanation is given in answer to each question, using straightforward language and in a good sized font, making it perfect for younger readers. Technical terms are explained within the text and a glossary at the back of the book offers further definitions. Fact boxes and diagrams add further details.
A lot of thought has been given to the presentation of this book. ‘Wow! What’s that?’ spreads are scattered throughout, showing close up images, offering a fascinating look at various things like the tongue or a dragonfly. Other spreads are called ‘Tell me how…now!’ which pose and answer specific questions- a chameleon’s tongue is up to 20cm long, the oldest tree in the world is almost 5000 years old, 280 people have been to the International Space Station… There is so much to learn here!
Some of the facts are truly disgusting- bogies can be green, brown or even pink depending on what’s trapped in it- which is sure to add to their appeal! There are questions here which you don’t know you want the answers to until you see them! How do worms know where they are going? Now I know! This is the sort of book which offers endless entertainment as it will be returned to again and again, allowing readers to share gleaned gems of knowledge. There is much in here which supports topics covered in the school curriculum, making it a useful book for home and school!
Illustrated with an appealing mix of photographs and pictures, ‘First Big Book of How’ is a real treasure trove of knowledge and discovery.
First Big Book of How
Sally Symes and Saranne Taylor, illustrated by Kate Slater
What on Earth ISBN: 978-1804661185
Eurek-her! Stories of Inspirational Women in STEM
‘Eurek-her!’ is a truly inspiring book. Featuring the stories and achievements of twenty amazing women, it is an engrossing read which also offers some hands-on experiments to further engage and inspire readers.
The contents page also acts as a time line, setting these women into chronological order. Their country of origin and life dates are also given along with a small drawing of each. At the end of the book, a comprehensive glossary supports understanding of terms used throughout the text and the final page gives a list of periodic elements.
The book contains a fascinating and varied range of women whose achievements, discoveries and inventions are still valued today. For example, Tapputi Belatekallim is often called the ‘world’s first chemist’ as she used distillation to create her perfumes whilst Omowunmi Sadik invented biosensors to help with a variety of issues. A great deal of information is presented in manageable chunks, attractively displayed and supported by illustrations and diagrams.
The final section of the book contains twelve activities, each related to one of the stories in the book, and designed to encourage readers to understand, investigate and experiment for themselves. From designing and making a perfume to building a recycled toy house, there is something to inspire everyone. This is very much a book to be enjoyed by everyone and will make an excellent addition to bookshelves and libraries everywhere!
Eurek-her! Stories of Inspirational Women in STEM
Frances Durkin, illustrated by Nur Ventura
bsmall ISBN: 978-1913918941
Publishing 2nd September 2024
Beautiful: A Celebration of Evolution
Illustrated throughout with stunning watercolours, ‘Beautiful’ is a very special book. The author sets out to show that ‘in nature, the word ugly simply does not apply’ as adaptation and evolution have have created incredible, unique creatures, each of which is beautiful.
A wonderful array of creatures are presented in alphabetical order, starting with the Aldabra Giant Tortoise and ending with the Wild Boar. Some of these entries are not the typical ‘cute and cuddly’ animals often featured in books, but each is held up as something to be admired and appreciated by the author.
Each spread offers beautiful illustrations, its binomial nomenclature and a wealth of information. Not only is the creature described, but details about how it has adapted are given. The Indian pangolin’s tongue, for example, has evolved to be longer than the creatures head and body combined and is connected to the bottom of the ribcage. The shoebill has adapted to survive in the dangerous swamps of easter Africa; a very aggressive creature, it uses its huge beak with a hooked end for spearing its prey. One of my favourite animals, the duck-billed platypus, can detect its prey through picking up tiny electric pulses from other animals, using special nerve cells in its bill. Sadly, the author notes where these creatures are endangered or their at risk from climate change and habitat destruction.
Completely fascinating, this book would add much to the knowledge and understanding of those studying evolution and adaptation as part of the Science Curriculum both in Y6 and in KS3. Each entry supports the statement: ‘Pupils should be taught to identify how animals and plants are adapted to suit their environment in different ways and that adaptation may lead to evolution’ in a meaningful and engaging way, whilst developing a respect for, and understanding of, these incredible creatures.
A very special, very beautiful book!
Beautiful: A Celebration of Evolution
William Spring
Big Picture Press ISBN: 978-1800786165
Published 1st August 2024
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
An Invitation to the Botanic Gardens
In this lovely book, readers are offered VIP access to the Botanic Gardens in Kew. From the ticket office to the ‘exit through the gift shop’, the book shares a wealth of information about the scientists, gardeners, horticulturalists, designers and explainers (amongst others!) who work so hard to keep this magical place full of healthy plants and happy visitors.
Perfect for sharing in preparation for a visit to the Gardens as well as reliving memories afterwards, ‘An Invitation to…’ is bursting with specific information about the Botanic Gardens. Different locations within the site are carefully explored, supported by wonderful illustrations. Three gateway folds allow the reader to feel as if they are entering different areas, exploring them with the visitors depicted enjoying them. For those who have never been there (and might never be lucky enough to go) it offers a glimpse of the wonders of the place and its plants and the dedication of those who work to maintain it. However, this is not just a book to link to a visit to the gardens.
Explanations are given for key vocabulary like pollination and germination whilst the work done at Kew gardens can be related to any garden which encourages nature to thrive. Children may be inspired to cultivate their own ‘conservation meadow’ or kitchen garden to grow their own vegetables. They can find out about some of the different carnivorous plants which are kept there as well as the important role of the seed bank.
A really beautiful book sharing the amazing work which goes on at a very special location, ‘An Invitation to the Botanic Gardens is one not to miss!
An Invitation to the Botanic Gardens
Charlotte Guillain, illustrated by Helen Shoesmith
Hachette in partnership with the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew ISBN: 978-1803381060
Beasts from the Deep
Beautifully presented, ‘Beasts from the Deep’ offers a fascinating and absorbing look at the mysterious creatures which inhabit the depths of the ocean.
The introduction carefully explains that there is much that is unknown about the deep sea, ‘a vast environment that despite near-freezing temperatures, crushing water pressure and total darkness’ is home to many creatures which have adapted to live there. From here, the author goes on to explain the ocean’s layers from the sunlight zone through the Twilight, Midnight and Abyssal Zones down to the Hadal Zone. The illustration here is quite something with the sparsely populated, inky-black Hadal Zone still managing to hint at the mysteries it might hold!
Starting with the Twilight Zone, the book then explores each layer in more detail, looking at some of the creatures which live there and how they have adapted to survive in their environment, making it a fascinating text to support the Y6 work on evolution and inheritance in science. The fangtooth, for example, which inhabits the Midnight Zone, has evolved to have a large mouth lined with really long teeth whilst Atolla jellyfish are perfectly adapted to live at this level.
On each page, the text is presented in small chunks, offering plenty of information, using subject specific vocabulary (a comprehensive glossary is included at the end of the book), encouraging the reader to develop their understanding of this fascinating environment and the ‘beasts’ which live there. I learned so much from reading this!
Beasts from the Deep
Matt Ralphs, illustrated by Kaley McKean
Nosy Crow with the University of Cambridge ISBN: 978-1839943348
Published 6th June
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
Solstice
Using solstice celebrations to take the reader on a journey around the world, this lovely book introduces fourteen fictional children from fourteen different locations as they experience the summer solstice. Whilst those living in the top half of the world have the longest day of the year, those in the bottom half experience the shortest, offering a fantastic snapshot of life around the Earth.
‘Solstice’ is a joy to read. Taken on a trip around the world, the reader is invited to share the daily lives of each child and discover, not only what happens on the solstice, but also something of the similarities and differences of those living in different locations. Each chapter starts with a map of the world showing where the child lives, the hours of sunlight on the 21st June and the average temperature range in addition to a small glossary featuring a selection of vocabulary with definitions used in the following text.
Each child then recounts their day, sharing cultural details about traditions and festivals as well as things about their daily routine. Kjersti from Svalbard, for example, comments on how normal it is for her that the sun doesn’t set and that she can sometimes see polar bears from her windows whilst for Bahasa, living in a city on the equator, the day is the same length all year round. Each section is illustrated by an artist with a connection to that country, making for a pleasing range of styles throughout the book. A section at the end of the book shows photos of each illustrator and offers a short autobiography. There is also a glossary of terms for the book as a whole and an index, making it easy to locate relevant information.
An excellent text to support the science and geography curriculum, ‘Solstice’ is also perfect for browsing at leisure.
Solstice: Around the World on the Longest, Shortest Day.
Jen Breach, illustrated by 14 global artists
What on Earth ISBN: 978-1913750770
Dinosaurs! Dinosaurs! Dinosaurs!
My son, like many young children, was completely fascinated by dinosaurs and we had an extensive collection of books on the subject! However, I am sure that had this book been around then, it would quickly have become one of his favourites.
A clear contents page allows the reader to quickly locate information which interests them, but the book is perfect for browsing and discovering pages of interest. Each spread is well presented with illustrations and facts working together to make the information as accessible as possible.
Starting with an explanation of what dinosaurs were and when they lived, the book defines the different periods clearly before moving on to answering questions about their size and diet before honing in on specific dinosaurs like Tyrannosaurus Rex and Deinonychus. Dinosaurs which lived in the sea and those which flew are also covered.
The book explains how fossils developed and how palaeontologists work like detectives to learn more about these fascinating creatures. The book concludes with theories about how the dinosaurs died out and a glossary of ‘special dinosaur words’.
A brilliant addition to any dinosaur-lover’s collection, Dinosaurs! Dinosaurs! Dinosaurs! is also sure to tempt new fans to the topic!
Dinosaurs! Dinosaurs! Dinosaurs!
Susan Martineau, illustrated by Vicky Barker
bsmall ISBN: 978-1913918897
You can read my review of ‘Sharks! Sharks! Sharks!’ here.
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.
Wilding: How to Bring Wildlife Back - An Illustrated Guide
‘Wilding: How to Bring Wildlife Back - An Illustrated Guide’ tells the story of the Knepp Estate in West Sussex and how the owners have allowed nature to return, bringing wildlife back to the estate. Now home to an abundance of creatures, including many rare species, the estate shows the importance- and benefits of rewilding.
Described as ‘a re-imagining of Wilding: The Return of Nature to a British Farm’, ‘Wilding’ is both fascinating and beautiful. Watercolours and lino prints by Angela Harding adorn every page offering a sense of the wonders this endeavour has brought about. A timeline at the beginning of the book outlines the events from the creation of the estate in William the Conqueror’s time through the changes of the Industrial Revolution, the Second World War, intensive farming and the family’s decision to stop farming and allow nature to thrive. From this point, the book is a celebration of the new landscape and its inhabitants with careful explanation of how this was achieved and ideas for how to rewild your own space.
Although pitched at younger readers, this book is an absolutely absorbing read for anyone. Both of my parents, my husband, my neighbour, my son and his girlfriend were all drawn towards this book, spending time getting lost in its pages and exclaiming in delight at the illustrations and pictures of the changes and the beauties of nature. It is a book which makes you pause and ponder the possibilities for your own environment, leaving you full of hope for the future.
‘Wilding: How to Bring Wildlife Back - An Illustrated Guide’
Isabella Tree, illustrated by Angela Harding
Macmillan ISBN: 978-1529092844
The Magnificent Book of Butterflies and Moths
‘Magnificent’ is a very good description of this book. Introducing the reader to some of the world’s most stunning species of butterflies and moths, the book is packed with information and gorgeous illustrations.
The presentation of the book is really ‘magnificent’! Each spread focuses on a different butterfly or moth, offering a beautiful, large illustration, a fact box, the Latin name and facts. The information is presented as bullet points with a silhouette of the creature to mark its place. A useful map of the world at the end of the book shows the location where each can be found and the size of each creature in comparison to a hand is indicated in the Fact Box.
There is so much to learn on every page whether you are a lepidopterist or someone just attracted to the book by its lovely cover. Not only poisonous, Cinnabar moths are sometimes cannibals. Fragile looking Glasswing butterflies might look fragile, but they can carry nearly 40 times their own weight. The Madagascan sunset moth is not only as beautiful as the name implies, but the colours on its wings are a warning to predators that it is poisonous whilst the Vampire moth drills into the skin of mammals with its proboscis.
An excellent addition to school school libraries or the perfect gift for anyone with an interest in these fascinating creatures, ‘The Magnificent Book of Butterflies and Moths’ is a real treat!
The Magnificent Book of Butterflies and Moths
Barbara Taylor, illustrated by Simon Treadwell
Weldon Owen ISBN: 978-1915588425
Published 7th March
You can read my review of ‘The Magnificent Book of Treasures: Ancient Rome’ here.
The Repair Shop: Craft Book
Like many people, I love everything about The Repair Shop. It is such a joyful patch of escapism and positivity with a lovely team of such skilled people, celebrating those items which are irreplaceable to their owners, full of memories and love. This brilliant book is jam packed with practical crafty ideas for children- and adults - to enjoy!
Readers do not need to be familiar with the television programme to appreciate this book; however, illustrations of the regular members of the team are included, showing the range of skills which they bring to the show. Following some advice about collecting materials and basic craft skills, the activities are then grouped into four sections: Making Toys, Perfect Presents, Outdoor Activities and Do-It-Yourself Decorations- and there really is something to tempt all tastes and all abilities.
Each project has a clear list of materials needed and then an illustrated step-by-step guide, with additional ‘Crafty Tips’. There is a real focus on using everyday household objects, making it perfect for those rainy days when seeking something to do as well as for planned projects. The wealth of ideas on offer in these pages will keep readers busy for many months and is sure to inspire further projects as many suggestions are given to extend the fun and creativity. The ‘Tawny Owl Pincushion’, for example, offers suggestions for making a fox, a pig or a panda, but the possibilities are limited only by the imagination (and skill!) of the maker.
The perfect gift, ‘The Repair Shop: Craft Book’ is an essential addition to home, school and library shelves, opening a world of crafting possibilities to the next generation.
The Repair Shop: Craft Book
Over 30 Creative Crafts for Children
illustrated by Sonia Albert
Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529507980
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: Ultimate Dinosaurs
Day 28 of National Non-Fiction November!
Endlessly fascinating to many young children, dinosaur books will always be popular. This series builds an extremely collectable library of pocket sized books introducing the reader to different dinosaurs in an extremely readable mix of science and humour.
Each book has been carefully researched, clearly presenting information in accessible chunks, supported by plenty of diagrams and cartoons. Each book starts by defining what a dinosaur is and a section of this chapter offers the same information from book to book, ensuring consistency. The following chapter, Dinosaur Detectives, then focuses in on the subject of the book. Here the reader finds a description and a family tree which explores relationships between dinosaurs. Helpful diagrams illustrate the size of these creatures in relation to a human and there are pronunciation guides for how to say each name.
Other chapters look at the discoveries relating to the named dinosaur, their anatomy and habitat. ‘New Science’ explores the latest ideas and ‘the battle’ looks at how the ‘evolutionary arms race’ would have played out, supported by a cartoon depiction.
Packed with fascinating facts, these small books are a wonderful resource for dinosaur lovers, old and young.
Ultimate Dinosaur: Microraptor
Ben Garrod, illustrated by Scott Hartman, Gabriel Ugueto and Ethan Kocak
Zephyr ISBN: 978-1804548301
Ultimate Dinosaur: Ankylosaurus
Ben Garrod, illustrated by Scott Hartman, Gabriel Ugueto and Ethan Kocak
Zephyr ISBN: 978-1804548271
NNFN2023 Bloggers’ Tour: The Fossil Hunter
Today’s review for the NNNFN2023 Bloggers’ Tour is ‘The Fossil Hunter’ by Kate Winter. As her contribution to the story of modern science is becoming more recognised and valued, biographies of her life and work for children are starting to appear- and this is a real gem!
There is so much to recommend this book that it is hard to know where to start! Initial attraction might be the stunning illustrations. The cover is wonderfully tactile, inviting the reader to run their fingers over the vertebrae of a dinosaur and the stones it lies amongst whilst a bonnetless Mary points to the wonders of the ancient sky above her. The opening end papers show a sepia scene with Mary, her father, brother and little dog, Tray, seeking the fossils which became their livelihood whilst the back end papers show modern fossil hunters, following in her footsteps. Throughout the book, the illustrations form an integral part of Mary’s story, bringing scenes to life and creatively supporting the text. A number of fold-out pages are cleverly used to deepen the reader’s understanding of events in Mary’s story.
By putting Mary’s life, experiences and achievements in context, the author has emphasised the extent and significance of her achievements. Throughout her life, she (and her family) experienced grinding poverty and her place in society as both a woman and a member of the working classes meant that her work was barely acknowledged in her lifetime- and beyond. Her passion and determination are fully recognised, but so are her struggles and frustrations.
‘The Fossil Hunter’ is packed with fascinating information, presented in a very appealing, accessible manner. Quotes from Mary herself, background information about fossils and dinosaurs, contextual information about her times and other fossil collectors and fossil finds around the world all combine to make this an essential read for anyone interested in the life and work of Mary Anning. Can’t recommend this one highly enough!
The Fossil Hunter: How Mary Anning Unearthed the Truth about the Dinosaurs
Kate Winter
Puffin ISBN: 978-0241469880