University of Cambridge: Build Your Own Solar System

Beautifully presented and packed with information, ‘Build Your Own Solar System’ is another ingenious book from Nosy Crow which engages children through both reading and activity.

Starting with a section entitled ‘What is the Solar System?’, the book offers clear sections of carefully explained text which deepen the reader’s knowledge and understanding of the different planets and features which make up our solar system. Dramatic illustrations illuminate every page, drawing interest and helping to guide the reader to different sections.

In addition to information about the planets, links are made to the gods and goddesses from mythology which gave them their names. Whilst many readers might be familiar with the fact that Venus is named after the Roman goddess of love and beauty, some might be surprised to learn that the tallest active volcano on Venus is named after Ma’at, the Egyptian goddess of balance, truth and justice. The role of key figures in the world of astronomy such as Abd al-Rahman al-Sufi and Galileo are also mentioned, encouraging those interested to find out more.

Perfect for enriching the Y5 Science programme of study of ‘Earth and Space’, the book not only offers a wealth of facts about our solar system, but allows children to create a model of each using the press outs in the end section and arranging them in order, reinforcing the learning from the text. There is a QR code to scan which offers step-by-step ‘how to’ videos for support if needed.

University of Cambridge: Build Your Own Solar System

Lauren Fairgrieve, illustrated by Anja Susanj

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805132776

You can read my review of ‘Birds of a Feather’ also written by Lauren Fairgrieve here.

Birds of a Feather

Produced in collaboration with the National Trust, ‘Birds of a Feather’ combines information about ten beautiful birds with the interactive element of creating 3D models. Perfect for children interested in nature or for encouraging imaginative play, this book is an excellent addition to any shelves.

The models are constructed by pressing out the sturdy card pieces which then slot together. Illustrated on both sides, string can be added to each bird so that they can hang as a flock either as decoration or as a constant talking point, the focus for much learning. However, there is the added bonus of being able to press the pieces back into their spaces ready to be used again and again unlike many books of this ilk where bits are easily lost, leading to frustration and disappointment.

Behind the sturdy board pages is a beautifully illustrated information section with a section about each of the birds. Not only does this offer facts about the bird’s appearance, diet and habitat, but there is a wealth of folklore and legend here as well, all sure to ignite curiosity and inspire further research. It’s a great way of engaging children with nature and developing their observational skills as well as their reading! ‘Birds of a Feather’ would make an excellent gift this Christmas!

Birds of a Feather

Lauren Fairgrieve, illustrated by Kate Read

Nosy Crow in collaboration with the National Trust

ISBN: 978-1839942723