I am always so pleased when a non fiction text finds its way to me. I always exercise my right as a reader to dip in and out, learning new things, studying the illustrative style, and figuring out how best to share the book. These non fiction books have been enjoyed over the past couple of weeks and even now, while writing, I have paused to re-read, re-imagine and find something new. All will find their way into the hands of children next term!
The World’s Most Pointless Animals by Philip Bunting, Published by Happy Yak, Quarto
Ever wondered why some animals exist when they seem pointless? This book aims to challenge your view and introduce you to some weird, wild and wonderful animals across a variety of species. The contents page allows you to look for some familiar names and then to see which ones are new to you…leading you on an exploration. One of my favourite elements of this book is the change from “proper” name to one that is made up but a perfect descriptor of the animal. For example, Stick Insect is Phasmatodea but changed to Twigeous Walkie Walkie. My son and I read each one in turn, giggling at their ingeniousness and silliness. Around the illustration of each animal is point form facts that will inform readers without the pressure of reading a lot of text. Brilliantly designed, funny and factual- this to me is the trifecta of fantastic for a non fiction book! This would be a huge hit in any classroom or home! It is one for my permanent collection.
The Ancient City of Liangzhu, Unlocking It’s Secrets by Liu Bin, Yu JingJing and Zeng QiQi, Published by Little Steps Publishing
Schools are often looking for newer and cleverly designed books about historical topics, ones that challenge the stereotype of non fiction texts. This book is wonderfully illustrated, introducing the reader to the Ancient City of Liangzhu, it’s people, customs and its jade. Located along the Yangtze River in China, this city was formed over 5000 years ago and they were known for their lush location, their hard work and intelligence. This book walks you through how they lived with plenty of diagrams, illustrations and short pieces of text, making it easy to follow and understand. Any KS2 class studying Ancient Civilisations or Ancient China would benefit from this book. I loved reading about the jade in particular. When we lived in Hong Kong, we bought some jade and it is a tiny masterpiece we own. It is fascinating to see how it was respected and treasured throughout history. I will be sharing this with a school who I know will love it!
Atlas of Amazing Architecture by Peter Allen, Published by Cicada Books
If you look at famous landmarks, buildings in cities and bridges spanning waterways in wonder then this is the book for you. Full of fascinating insights into familiar and unknown architectural delights, this book will completely entrance the reader. I have already spent ages with buildings I have heard of and I plan to spend even more time with the ones I haven’t heard of before. Surrounding each double page spread are facts, dates and locations of these wonders from all around the world. I was particularly taken with the Shanxi Hanging Monastery in China and Chief Waka’s House in Canada. Dating back many years, it was promising to read that many of these architectural gems are still standing today, though their purpose may have changed over time. The amount of research that went into this book is admirable and brilliantly shared in the text.
How to be a Vet and other Animal Jobs by Dr Jess French and Sol Linero, Published by Nosy Crow
Animal loving readers may find themselves inspired to train to work with animals when they finish school. Dr Jess French is an expert in this field and her passion and expertise come across brilliantly in this book. Bright and bold illustrations fill the pages and short bursts of informative text fill the gaps, leading readers on a journey to becoming a vet, physiotherapist or wildlife rehabilitators. I love the variety of options for animal lovers to take, from ones that will require specialist training to others where love and attention are needed above all else. This book is one in a series of books, the first two featuring jobs in space and sports jobs. The balance between men and women in all three books is excellent ensuring readers know that anyone can do these jobs! I also love Sol Linero’s illustrations across all three books. Perfect for schools to have on hand for browsers and inspiration.
Blow, Wind, Blow by Dom Conlon and Anastasia Izlesou, Published by Graffeg
Blow, Wind, Blow is the latest in the beautiful Wild Wanderer’s Series by Dom Conlon and Anastasia Izlesou. Lyrical, poetic and wonderfully illustrated, these books celebrate bio-diversity and the environment. With three previous titles in the series and more to come, these would be excellent in classrooms of all ages. I am a huge fan of picture books that can be used with all ages and these are delightful and perfect for sharing. As you turn each page, you are magically transported across lands and sea, following the path the wind forges, all the while repeating the refrain over and over, “Blow, Wind, Blow”. We see weak winds, strong, gusty and devastating winds as it blows across deserts, jungles and oceans. The illustrations are works of art and offer plenty for the reader to experience, from movement to shapes and culture. An inspired series and there is plenty more to come- this is one series to collect.
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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3 Comments
I definitely need Pointless Animals, I’m a big Philip Bunting fan.
Wow these books look great! They are just so different to what older non fiction books look like and I know our pupils would be hooked!
I am so keen to transform our school library non fiction shelves as they are so dated & jumbled.
Any suggestions of places to try & get funding?
My Shelves Are Full 
I definitely need Pointless Animals, I’m a big Philip Bunting fan.
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Wow these books look great! They are just so different to what older non fiction books look like and I know our pupils would be hooked!
I am so keen to transform our school library non fiction shelves as they are so dated & jumbled.
Any suggestions of places to try & get funding?
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I will send across a couple of ideas to you Marie!
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