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.
Let’s Be Earthlings
A little alien discovers Earth and it delighted by all its wonders. It enjoys feeding like a bat, carrying its home on its back like a snail and playing like a child. The only thing missing is its friend, Batu…
In ‘Let’s Be Earthlings’, the little alien’s enthusiasm for all the joys of Earth is infectious! As they shapeshift from creature to creature, children are encouraged to think about all the variety and wonders of life on Earth and how the planet makes the perfect home for everyone.
The little alien realises that not everything on Earth is as happy as it might be- some Earthlings never go outside -some Earthlings are scared of the alien and tell it to keep away- but the alien finds solutions to these difficulties and still thinks Earth is amazing!
The illustrations are colourful and full of fun, capturing the little alien’s enthusiasm for the world its exploring and the diversity of life on Earth. Children can enjoy spotting the creatures that they have met along the way on the final spread, including finding which animal the little alien has shifted into!
Let’s Be Earthlings
Mary Murphy
Otter-Barry ISBN: 978-1915659620
Publishing 7th August 2025
Wonder World: Earth
Offering a closer look at the ‘muddy, magical, marvellous miracle’ that is soil, ‘Wonder World: Earth’ is a fascinating and enjoyable read. The first in a new series, it is perfect for bringing natural science alive for younger readers.
Clear explanations are supported by engaging illustrations, encouraging readers to see the world of the worm as an exciting place. The key role played by the earth beneath our feet in the well being of the planet is really brought to life in these pages.
Starting with the different layers of the Earth, the book then zooms in on soil, explaining what it is, what it is composed of and how it varies in different parts of the world. The life it hosts, from billions of worms of varying kinds to minibeasts and microbes, is then explored, all accompanied by lively, colourful illustrations.
The chatty style of the text makes the book really accessible and is sure to capture children’s interest and encourage them to find out more about soil and the incredible role it plays. For teachers, it would make an excellent resource, encouraging children to work scientifically and supporting work in Y3 on rocks as well as considering soil as a habitat. However, it is also a book which children are sure to pick up and enjoy for its own sake!
Wonder World: Earth
Ben Lerwill, illustrated by Xuan Le
Nosy Crow in collaboration with the National Trust
ISBN: 978-1805130697
NNFN2024: A Little Blue Dot
November is flying by-but there are still plenty of days left to share lots of fabulous factual books. Today’s book is ‘A Little Blue Dot, from Mama Makes Books, a small, independent publisher.
‘A Little Blue Dot’ is a lovely example of narrative non-fiction, allowing younger readers the joys of a story combined with accurately researched facts and details. Here, Earth, an ‘inconspicuous’ blue dot, contemplates the other planets as she floats in space. She feels that all the other planets are special, whilst she isn’t. As she contemplates the wonders of Mercury, the beauties of Venus and so on, she shares information about each one until she is interrupted by the other planets assure her that they are all jealous of her. Then Earth hears a little voice with something very important to say…
Through the conversational tone of the text and adorable illustrations, readers are offered a wealth of information about the planets which is accessible and entertaining. A little fact file about each planet is also presented on the end papers which shows them all in order from the sun with the Asteroid belt and the Kuiper belt included.
There is, of course, the additional benefit of a subtle message about not comparing yourself to others and realising just how unique and special everyone is which can easily be drawn from the story should readers wish. However, there is no questioning the importance or value of cleverly written narrative non-fiction texts in both reading for pleasure and reading for information. This delightful book is perfect for allowing children to learn more about the planets- and enjoy a lovely story along the way!
A Little Blue Dot
Maren Hasenjäger
Mama Makes Books ISBN: 978-1916780057