In a bid to celebrate Non fiction November at home, my kids and I have been reading these delights this weekend. All very different and each of us had our own favourite to read again.
The New Baby, An Activity Book for soon-to-be big brothers and sisters, text by Ziggy Hanaor, Illustrations by Lie Dirkx, Published by Cicada Books
When a new baby is on its way, the older siblings can begin to feel apprehensive, worried and unsure of their place in the family. When the baby arrives, so to does jealousy over time spent with the new baby. This book is full of super activities to do with a soon to be sibling, from colouring to drawing to making choices of clothes, food and family. A lovely way to spend time together and encourage speech and conversation about the new arrival and to allay any fears and worries. There are also developmental stages of pregnancy explained to help children understand what the new baby looks like inside mummy’s tummy. An entirely lovely book and a perfect gift for young families.
Interview with a Tiger & Other Clawed Beasts Too, Written by Andy Seed, Illustrated by Nick East, Published by Welbeck Publishing
This popular book takes a new approach to non fiction. Set up as a series of interviews with clawed animals, the questions, answers and layout of the book will appeal to so many. While reading each interview, you still gain the insight and facts about the animal, all the while laughing at some of the questions and answers. Humour and fun, along with brilliant Nick East illustrations will keep this one as a firm favourite. My favourite question and answer has to be from the Interview with a Wolf, “Q: First off, do you howl at the moon? A: No. Don’t be ridiculous. Do you howl at the moon?” Each animal has a distinct personality and this adds to the charm of this book. I believe there may be more and I will certainly be adding them to my collection.
All Kinds of Families, Written and illustrated by Sophy Henn, Published by Egmont
This is a celebration of families, both human and animal. Taking a closer look at the ways animals raise their young, this book is delightfully illustrated and accompanied with basic facts about animal parents. From orangutans to long-tailed tits and elephants to meerkats, this is a brilliant book for KS1 classrooms and young readers. The diversity of our own families is highlighted in a hugely positive format and the common thread of love being heralded as something we share with all families, regardless of our differences. Sophy Henn has a beautiful illustrative style that brings an added joy to this book.
Me and the World, An Infographic Exploration, Written by Mireia Trius, Illustrated by Joana Casals, Published by Chronicle Books
I adore infographic books and love studying the images, comparing and contrasting amongst the pages and information. Lucia and Hugo, the two characters in this book, walk the reader through types of families, languages of the world, school uniforms and Christmas around the world. There is too much to see in just one reading, it begs to be picked up again and again. The strong use of colours, styles and numbers makes this visually appealing and accessible for all ages. Aimed at children, this book looks at homework around the world and food from the cafeteria and playground games. This is a fun and interactive way to learn about children around the world.
Fabulously Feisty Queens, Written by Valerie Wilding, Illustrated by Pauline Reeves, Published by Wren and Rook (Hachette)
I have been anxiously awaiting this book to read and learn about the fabulously feisty queens from history. From all eras in history, there are plenty of amazing women who ruled their countries or empires. Most of the queens have a stunning double page spread uniquely designed and illustrated to suit the era, style of reign and fashion. The pictures tell us as much about the queens as the quick facts and text on each page. A great balance of well known figures from history, including Cleopatra and Boudica, to the lesser known Razia from Delhi and Yaa Asantewaa from Africa. A superb book highlighting and celebrating strong women from history!
I am a primary school teacher, turned librarian. Now I have the title Reading Advocate for ASSET Education Trust, based in Suffolk.
I read constantly and have more books than bookshelves, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
I celebrate reading every day at work and at home with my two children, aged 11 and 9.
I sit on the National Executive Committee for the Federation of Children’s Book Groups and run an OU/UKLA Teachers as Readers group!
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