Flush It Down: The Story of Sewers Through Time

Any teacher will tell you that one of the most frequently asked questions when on a history based trip will be around how people used to go to the loo! This very human fascination with this very human function is comprehensively covered in this surprisingly interesting book!

Having started with a focus on poo entitled ‘Ew Gross!’ which explains not only what it is, but also why we find it so distasteful, the author moves on to a look at poo through the ages from prehistoric to modern times. Developments in toilet technology across the world are covered as well as the devastating impact of the deadly diseases spread by dirty living conditions.

The book is packed with entertaining illustrations and plenty of word play and puns, adding much humour to the subject. However, more serious issues around the problems of human waste and dealing with these challenges today are also raised with a look at future, more sustainable solutions.

A fun addition to any bookshelf, ‘Flush It Down’ is full of historical and scientific information, allowing readers to discover more about sewers through time!

Flush It Down: The Story of Sewers Through Time

Rob Flowers

Cicada ISBN: 978-1800660649

Spin a Story

Perfect for National Non-Fiction November, ‘Spin a Story’ offers a wonderful mixture of true tales, riddles, poems, fun facts and jokes with the added enjoyment of a spinner on the cover to help you choose which category- Wonder, Explore, Laugh or Ooh- to select!

Spinning ‘Explore’ could lead readers to information about wild homes, explain why Christmas Island turns red every year between October and December or take you on holiday somewhere in the universe. Landing on orange will give you a giggle as you find out how to tell a joke or discover the colour of a brown bear’s poo. Blue is the colour of the ‘ooh’ category full of surprising stories about remarkable robots or some mysteries from the past whilst yellow will make you wonder at kangaroos or the brilliance of butterflies.

A collection of authors have contributed to the book so that each concise entry has a different feeling, giving variety of both subject matter and style, engaging readers afresh with each twirl of the spinner. The concept makes this an excellent book for sharing with siblings or friends, each taking a turn to spin and choose the next entry to be enjoyed. The colourful, often humorous, illustrations add to the book’s appeal, making this a treat to be returned to again and again!

Spin a Story

Various authors, illustrated by Mariona Cabassa

Red Shed ISBN: 978-0008685973

Factology: The Maya

Full of fascinating information, this new addition to the ‘Factology’ series offers a detailed look at the ancient Maya. Starting with an explanation of who the Maya were- and are- ‘Factology: The Maya’ provides a timeline of events happening in the rest of the world as the Maya civilisation developed, allowing readers to make connections with other historical periods and events which they might be familiar with.

The book carefully explains the importance of the ‘Popol Vuh’, a sacred Maya text and how this survived, allowing readers today to become familiar with their origin stories and what they believed. Vivid illustrations accompany a whose who of some of the major gods before some of their myths are retold, presented in graphic form. Highly engaging, vocabulary and additional details are explained, deepening understanding of these complex stories.

Plenty of information about daily life is included, with a focus spread on chocolate and its importance to the Maya. Divided into three sections, the book looks at the pre-classic, classic and post-classic periods, charting the rise and decline of this great civilisation, including investigating the theory that aliens were around at this time and how they might have helped the Maya build their pyramids!

The book ends with a quiz (including answers!) encouraging children to reflect on their reading- or look up the answers! In the current KS2 History National Curriculum, the Maya are one of the study area choices for a non-European society that provides contrasts with British history and this book would make an excellent addition to library or class resources to support this.

Factology: The Maya

Button Books ISBN: 978-1787081840

Amazing Shark: Guardian of the Seas

Beautifully presented with a textured cover and glossy pages, ‘Amazing Shark’ is as stunning as it is informative.

Written in a very engaging, chatty style, the author offers an amazing array of facts and figures explaining the development of sharks and the incredible number of known shark species which scientists group into eight orders. Stunning illustrations accompany the text, on occasions in response to a request from the author (Michele? Could you please draw is a 17cm megalodon tooth here? Thank you!) The author is also keen to ally fears about these incredible creatures, emphasising ways in which humans are a threat to sharks rather than the other way around.

There is an interactive element to the book, encouraging readers to engage fully with the text. Sections entitled ‘For Bright Minds’ offer additional information, there are quizzes, jokes, pictures with things to spot…plenty to challenge and capture interest whilst learning more about sharks. There is even a page pointing those who wish to learn more in the direction of additional resources.

Perfect for enquiring minds, this would make an excellent addition to any bookshelf at home or at school!

Amazing Shark: Guardian of the Seas

Michael Stavaric, illustrated by Michele Ganser and translated by Oliver Latsch

Pushkin Press ISBN: 978-1782695530

NNFN2024: Big Book of Knowledge

For the final day of NNFN2024, this is the last post of the Review Tour. Many thanks to all those who have taken part and to all the wonderful publishers who have supported us.

‘The Week Junior Big Book of Knowledge’ offers a cornucopia of information, beautifully presented and completely fascinating! Perfect for browsing, this is a book to return to again and again and discover something new each time.

Different sections are crammed with true-stories and fantastic facts centred around a theme such as ‘Creature Features’, Brilliant Books’ and ‘Wonderful Wellbeing’. In the wealth of information included here are things you never knew you needed to know- until you read them! Did you know that rats ‘giggle’? Or that someone spent two weeks transforming the front of their home into a giant gingerbread house?

There are also activities to try like making some ‘foodie art’ in the shape of a fake cake or creating a sweet and savoury salad. Colourful photos make the book very appealing whilst succinct, clear explanations and lively text make it accessible and entertaining. A real must-have, this is sure to become a firm favourite throughout the year! Remember non-fiction is not just for November!

The Week Junior Big Book of Knowledge

Bloomsbury ISBN:978-1801995221

NNFN2024: At the Top of the World: The Greatest Mountains on Earth

‘The Greatest Mountains on Earth’ is an absorbing read, perfect for inspiring interest in some of the most fascinating places in the world. Mountains hold a deep fascination for many people- and this book combines information on eight iconic peaks with their legends and folklore and those who have climbed them.

The book starts by explaining what mountains are, the different forms they take and introducing some of the technical terms associated with them. For teachers who are exploring this area of the curriculum with a class, this is a valuable resource, with its succinct explanations and appealing illustrations. There is also much here to draw on if looking at explorers, offering an overview of the development of mountaineering and the equipment needed.

Attention is then focused on eight different mountains from around the world with attention being paid to the people who inhabit them or their locality and the religious or cultural significance these places hold for them. Details about each mountain and ‘the climb’ of each are also given, making it a fascinating read- and perhaps inspiring the next generation of mountaineers!

At the Top of the World: The Greatest Mountains on Earth (and how to climb them)

Robin Jacobs, illustrated by Ed J Brown

Cicada Books ISBN: 978-1800660472

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: Young Zoologist

Designed to inspire young biologists, the ‘Young Zoologist’ series offers ‘a first field guide…’ to a whole range of creatures. Children with an interest in nature are sure to want to collect the whole set and school libraries and classrooms would benefit from having these texts on their shelves, both for research and for general interest.

‘Axolotl’ opens with an introduction to the author and a fact file which offers an excellent overview of these fascinating creatures. Each spread has a clear heading introducing its topic with information presented in clear sections under side headings, making it easy to navigate.

Bright and appealing illustrations accompany information on the axolotl’s life cycle, mating rituals and other members of the salamander family. The book also offers information on how studying these creatures might be beneficial to humans, such as helping those with spinal injuries. As axolotls are found in Mexico, they feature in Aztec mythology, something which is also covered in the book.

A very informative and attractive book.

Young Zoologist: Axolotl

Dr Jessica Lamae Whited, illustrated by Bethany Lord

Neon Squid    ISBN: 978- 1916745094

Dr Julia Mata opens the book by introducing herself and her interest in capybaras. A fact file including the scientific name, classification and where they are found, indicates that there are two species, the greater and lesser capybara.

Clear page headings introduce each spread and side headings make it easy for readers to locate information, which is presented in concise, easily digestible chunks. A glossary at the end of the book clearly explains terms which are used in the text.

Having ‘met’ the capybara on a spread with a labelled diagram, other members of the rodent family are introduced. The book offers information about their habitats, dietary requirements and life cycle. Readers also learn about the impact they have on their ecosystems and the threats they face from predators, including humans. Colourful illustrations throughout make the book appealing.

Young Zoologist: Capybara

Dr Julia Mata, illustrated by Greco Westermann

Neon Squid       ISBN: 978-1916745087

NNFN2024: Thank you for the Music

For many people, music is a hobby which is central to their lives. My grandfather played in orchestras all his life, my mother has always sung in choirs, my older brother plays guitar in a band and my younger plays drums in another. Music runs through our family- and ‘Thank you for the Music’ offers a practical guide to music from its origins to advice about working in the industry.

The book opens by offering a definition of music and its main elements before focusing on classical music. A typical plan of a symphony orchestra is given and then each of the instrument families are introduced. A timeline shows a selection of famous classical composers from Hildegard of Bingen to Kerry Andrew, giving the nationality and dates for each, offering a starting point for readers to discover more. The next section explores 20th century music and the different genres which have developed.

Different career possibilities are ‘zoomed in’ on, giving information about and advice on roles such as producer, therapist and DJ. The skills needed for each job are outlined along with an overview of the job requirements. With a final section about creating music, there is so much to enjoy and learn in this book. Further reading suggestions are also offered and a comprehensive index allows information to be quickly and easily located.

Thank you for the Music: A celebration of the value of creativity

Sarah Walden, illustrated by Hannah Li

Noodle Juice ISBN: 978-1915613189

NNFN2024: Bird, Bee and Bug Houses

Not only does ‘Bird, Bee and Bug Houses’ share lots of fascinating facts about the wonderful array of wildlife on our doorsteps, it inspires children to make and do, taking a practical approach to caring for nature. Perfect for NNFN2024, it is full of fun activities and interesting ideas.

Having explained what habitats and ecosystems are and the reasons they are being lost, the book starts with a focus on birds and the different types of nest they build. It then offers step-by-step, illustrated instructions on how to build a bird box which incudes measurements and suggestions for some entrance hole sizes for different species. Information about owls and the differing types of nest box they might choose is followed by instructions for how to build a bird bath and make a no-bake bird cake.

Butterflies, bats, bees, bugs, beetle, frogs… there is so much information included here about wildlife and so many practical activities to interest and engage children, getting them out and about, encouraging them to take an interest in, and show care for, the creatures in their locality. Sure to inspire, the clear, attractive illustrations which accompany each activity make the book an appealing treat!

Bird, Bee and Bug Houses: Homes and Habitats for Garden Wildlife

Susie Behar, illustrated by Esther Coombs

Button Books ISBN: 978-1787081444

NNFN2024: Little Experts

‘Little Experts’ is an eye-catching series for younger children, written by experts in the field. Bright and colourful, they offer a great range of topics and for day 22 of NNFN2024, I have looked at three of this series which might lead to a new interest!

In his introduction to ‘How to Build a Home’, author, George Clarke, explains why he chose to become an architect, setting the scene for a book which shares his enthusiasm for the subject and is sure to spark interest and inspire readers.

He starts by introducing different types of houses from around the world and some of the ways their design has been influenced by the climate. He then goes on to look at the team needed to make his designs come to life, explaining the role each plays. Clarke then considers the different materials used to build a house, both in the past and to the present day.

Readers are then encouraged to think like an architect themselves and redesign a room in their own home. This could well lead to children using Lego or other building materials to build their designs or designing a room using a cardboard box.

The book also considers possible advances in technology and materials which might influence house design in the future. A glossary at the end of the book supports understanding of some of the technical terms and the book’s brightly coloured, lively illustrations are sure to appeal!

Little Experts: How to Build a Home

George Clarke, illustrated by Robert Sae-Heng

Red Shed ISBN: 978-0008587895

According to author Alastair Campbell, politics is part of everything we do and in Why Politics Matters, he sets out to explain how.

Perfect for sharing, the book provides a good introduction to the political system of the UK. Starting with the role played by the House of Commons and the House of Lords, the book also explains the place of the monarch, in this case Charles II, in the Constitution.

Terms like this are clearly explained in the text and there is also a glossary at the end of the book. Although 'parties' are referred to, the book shows no political bias, focusing on the structure of the organisation rather than the ideologies. It also seeks to give an idea of the difficult financial decisions which have to be made.

Why Politics Matters encourages readers to engage with politics, offering ideas for how to be involved including listening to the news, speaking up about issues and getting in touch with MPs. Presented in clear sections, the text is easy to follow and the colourful illustrations are engaging, but this is a book which will work best when children have the opportunity to discuss and reflect on the information with an adult who can answer questions and guide them towards further discovery.

Little Experts: Why Politics Matter

Alastair Campbell, illustrated by Maite Franchi

Red Shed ISBN: 978-0008560089

‘Little Experts: How to Save a Life’ is a wonderful text to share with little ones and encourage them to take an interest in first aid. Reading this with an adult would allow children to ask questions and clarify anything which they are unsure about whilst they are reading.

Text is presented in clear sections with numbers and bullet points to guide the reader when necessary. Extra snippets of information are also offered such as that children’s bones heal faster than an adult’s or that crabs have blue blood, but the key information is easily identified, allowing readers to focus on this alone should they find the additional facts overwhelming.

The bright, colourful cartoon illustrations make the book appealing and age appropriate, allowing children to learn about dangerous situations without being alarmed. With an emphasis on keeping calm and straightforward instructions, the book is perfect for practising what to do in a range of first-aid scenarios from dealing with a nose bleed to putting someone in the recovery position.

Little Experts: How to Save a Life

Dr Ronx, illustrated by Ashton Attzs

Red Shed ISBN: 978-0008560072

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

NNFN2024: An Anthology of Exquisite Birds

Once again, I must apologise for the lack of photos. Despite having contacted Squarespace and followed their ‘advice’, the site is still not working correctly.

For day 20 of National Non-Fiction November, I am sharing ‘An Anthology of Exquisite Birds’, a very beautiful book which I wish I could hare pictures of- however, enough of my frustration!

Ben Hoare’s passion for birds and desire to inspire and enthuse others is absolutely infectious and, although I am not a fan of the term ‘gift book’, this one would make a very special present for any bird lover.

The contents introduces the reader to the wealth of birds captured in its pages. Sections indicated in italics focus on more generic topics like ‘beaks’ or ‘eggs’ which offer comparisons and comments about specific breeds of bird. Everything is beautifully presented: inside, a mixture of photographs and illustrations on each spread, outside, gold page edges and an embossed cover.

Readers learn how many of these birds got their names as well as some of the myths and legends associated with them. There is such a wealth of knowledge here- you might start by looking up a specific bird, but the easy style of the text and the author’s great knowledge and enthusiasm will lead you to others. A real gem, this is an absolute keeper!

An Anthology of Exquisite Birds

Ben Hoare, illustrated by Angela Rizza and Daniel Long

DK ISBN: 978-0241674963

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

NNFN2024: The Kids’ Easy Air Fryer Cookbook

Some people love cooking, others do it because they have to, some avoid it like the plague. Unless it’s making cakes, I am very much of the last category. However, ‘The Kid’s Easy Air Fryer Cookbook’ might just have me converted!

The 50 recipes offered here are organised into breakfasts, lunches, dinners, sides and desserts, with an index included at the end to allow for the quick location of a favourite food. An introduction explains how air fryers work and how to use them safely as well as offering some tips for success! Symbols throughout the book indicate whether recipes are gluten free, vegetarian or vegan whilst colour photos make them all look delicious!

I was surprised by the variety of dishes which can be made using an air fryer. Offering plenty of choice, each recipe has clear instructions, clearly showing where children should ask for help, with additional tips and suggestions for varying the dish. The lemon drizzle cupcakes were a huge success - easy to make, delicious to eat! Perfect for aspiring chefs and cooking-refusers alike, this book is wonderful for everyone!

The Kids’ Easy Air Fryer Cookbook

Sally Morgan

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702339349

NNFN2024: This is Skateboarding

‘This is Skateboarding’ celebrates the history of the skateboarding scene, charting its rise from the streets of LA to an Olympic sport. It offers an excellent introduction for those who wish to learn more- or be inspired to take up this hobby.

The book stresses the importance of self-expression, encouraging readers to choose their own style in clothing and skating location as well as creating an individual board. Skating safety- of the individual, other skaters, non-skaters and the environment- is stressed throughout with plenty of advice and tips. A strong sense of community and inclusion is emphasised with information about movements such as the Long Live Southbank group who campaigned to keep the skatepark beneath the Southbank Centre and individuals like blind pro skater, Dan Mancina.

Throughout the book, the development of skateboarding, its clothing styles, board developments and skating spaces are celebrated, from its origins to its recent inclusion as an Olympic event. Famous and influential skaters are acknowledged, with inspirational quotes from some included. Every spread is illustrated in a colourful, vibrant, energetic style, well suited to the topic.

With a detailed glossary to support understanding of technical terms, ‘This is Skateboarding’ would be an excellent addition to any personal or public library, sure to tempt many readers and develop their interest in the world of skating!

This is Skateboarding

Hannah Wilson, illustrated by Peter Phobia

Red Shed ISBN: 978-0008614102

NNFN2024 Review Tour: Winter Windows

It’s my first slot today on the NNFN 2024 Bloggers’ Review Tour and I am sharing something which is perfect for inspiring creativity and allowing families and friends to share the joy of Christmas crafting!

‘Winter Windows’ contains both a booklet and wallet containing stickers, patterned paper, pop-outs and twenty transparent picture pages. In order to make the projects in the book, all that is needed is some colouring pencils (paints, crayons or felt tips), scissors, sticky tape or glue and a little imagination!

The booklet is full of ideas for how to use the resources in the wallet. By colouring in the transparencies, various scenes can be created and used to make baubles, cards, gift tags, bunting and lanterns amongst other things. Advice is given to use LED lights as projects should not be put near candles or lightbulbs, as the transparencies come to life when they are lit up, offering a festive glow.

One of the lovely things about this book is that the ideas here are sure to lead to others, encouraging children to be creative. Tracing paper is both readily available and relatively cheap, allowing for new pictures to be made easily. The ‘Elf door’ activity allows children to create a scene behind an opening door which, with a little imagination, could easily be adapted to include a family gathering. Similarly, the winter scene could be altered to include their own home.

The activities included here are sure to engage and entertain children as well as giving them the opportunity to create gifts and decorations for family and friends.

Creative Paper: Winter Windows

Toni Stemp, designed by Isabelle Grace

iSeek books ISBN: 978-1915995261

Make sure you look at the other reviews for NNFN2024 from these brilliant bloggers!

NNFN2024: Into the Volcano

Offering a comprehensive introduction to volcanoes, ‘Into the Volcano’ is an accessible and absorbing read. The book starts by explaining what a volcano is, how they are formed and where in the world they are located. Concise and clearly written, this- and the next which looks at unusual volcanoes (those underwater, in space and those which cause strange eruptions) -section is perfect for supporting children studying volcanoes in KS2, for teachers teaching about them- and indeed, for anyone with an interest in the subject!

The next two sections of the book are devoted to exploring the cultural significance of volcanoes, offering richness and colour to the subject, taking it beyond the confines of the curriculum. Through looking at the stories, myths and legends connected to volcanoes, readers discover how they have shaped the beliefs of people around the world, including a creation story of the Māori people, the Hawaiian volcano goddess, Pele and the Icelandic sorceress, Katia. Volcanoes have also influence the arts. Readers are sure to be inspired to seek out some of the works of art mentioned and be fascinated by the story behind the quality of the sound of a Stradivarius violin!

The book concludes with a chapter on living with volcanoes today, learning from the past and valuing the gifts volcanoes offer as well as respecting them. Beautifully illustrated throughout, ‘Into the Volcano’ offers so much more than the science behind these amazing natural wonders, making it a fascinating and very readable addition to any bookshelf.

Into the Volcano

Catherine Ard, illustrated by Wenjia Tang

Flying Eye ISBN: 978-1838741754

You can read my review of ‘Yellowstone’ by Catherine Ard here.

NNFN2024: From Plant to Plate

Offering a mixture of recipes and information, ‘From Plant to Plate’ is perfect for inspiring a new hobby this NNFN2024! Bright colourful pages offer an appealing mixture of photographs and illustrations, adding visual appeal to interesting content.

Through its three sections, a cast of cheeky cartoon characters, the ‘Bug Squad’, act as guides, helping readers to engage with the text and adding plenty of additional advice and facts along the way. ‘Power Up’, the first section, is packed with information clearly explained information about digestion with labelled diagrams to support understanding. Guidance about nutritional values of different foods and eating to support the body’s needs is then given, supporting readers in making considered choices.

The next section, ‘Plant’, features information about planting, covering everything from composting to biodiversity and including specific guidance on growing certain plants like cherry tomatoes and butternut squash, linking these ingredients to recipes which are included in the final portion of the book. Lots of tips are offered throughout and each planting recommendation is accompanied by clear, step-by-step, illustrated instructions, making it easy for anyone to get started.

‘Plate’ is the final section which provides a selection of tasty and tempting treats, including the ingredients grown and harvested using advice previously given. The authors make suggestions for ingredient swaps which readers might like to try, giving their reasons, all of which encourages young cooks to consider the ingredients which they are using and make informed choices. Each recipe is given a difficulty rating and many offer ideas for using alternative ingredients.

Perfect for inspiring an interest in growing and cooking, environmental and personal health, ‘From Plant to Plate’ is an excellent book whether for inclusion in a library or for families to share and enjoy together.

From Plant to Plate

Darryl Gadzekpo and Ella Phillips

DK ISBN: 978-0241633335

NNFN2024: Boats and Space

Two brilliant choices for day 13 of NNFN2024, both created by Jan van der Veken. ‘Boats’ and ‘Space’ are both fascinating books, full of detail to keep readers entertained for hours.

‘Space’ starts by looking at rockets with labelled diagrams, supporting readers in identifying their components. It then follows the development of space exploration from Sputnik, the first satellite in in space to manned pace flights, how astronauts train and the space suits they wear. Significant moments in the history of space travel, exploration and discovery are explored and everything is clearly explained. Myths - and facts- surrounding the possibility of extraterrestrial life are also considered and the book ends with a thoughtful section on how humans have polluted space.

It is a fascinating and detailed read for both those with an interest in space and those new to the topic!

From outer space to the waters of the world, ‘Boats’ brings readers back to earth with a splash! from looking at ship design, the reader is led on an absorbing array of nautical topics, offering a look at historic events, vessels and figures as well as some of the superstitions and legends surrounding boats. Information on topics such as lighthouses, morse code, the use of knots and sextants provide a varied and interesting read, all accompanied by attractive illustrations and labelled diagrams.

Both books would make excellent additions to any library, enriching the curriculum and broadening the range of topics which children might encounter- a couple of the many ways in which libraries are both essential and invaluable!

Space: From Sputnik to the International Space Station

Jan van der Veken

Prestel ISBN: 978-3791375816

Boats: Steamers, Icebreakers and Ghost Ships

Jan van der Veken

Prestel ISBN: 978-3791375809