Non Fiction titles offer so much to the reader- facts, information and potential hobbies or interests, perhaps even a future career path! The ones featured today have offered me so much this past week and I feel as though I have a better understanding on money, politics and honesty in dealing with issues. These would be worthwhile in school libraries.
World-Whizzing Facts by Dr Emily Grossman, Illustrated by Alice Bowsher, Published by Bloomsbury
Fascinating questions are posed by Dr Emily Grossman with multiple choice answers for the readers to guess from. Detailed explanations and answers are then given to entice readers to learn and understand more. Written conversationally, the reader feels part of the discussion. Surrounding the information are cartoon style illustrations that add an element of fun to the facts. With humour, jokes and plenty of toilet humour, this is sure to keep readers entertained. Not shying away from the science and explanations, Dr Emily Grossman, deals with these expertly and with child friendly language. An engaging text for readers aged 5 and above- this is one to have in class libraries for those dipping in moments.
A Quick History of Money by Clive Gifford and Rob Flowers, Published by Wide Eyed Editions
Money- can be wonderful and stressful, but knowing how it began, evolved and became worldwide is something I knew little about. This engaging text will walk readers through the history of money, from swapping, bartering and owing through to digital cash. Colourful pages, brilliant illustrations and plenty of facts will have readers learning so much and perhaps gaining a better insight into the hows and whys of money. Entirely fascinating, I was surprised constantly and loved the speech bubbles of quick quips and plays on words. This one would suit a school assembly, beginning the discussions on how to use, save and spend wisely. A handy quiz and links to further research at the back are ideal.
A Different Sort of Normal by Abigail Balfe, Published by Puffin Books
I was overwhelmed with just how brilliant this book is, and how easy it is to read, understand and enjoy. It begins with a poem to everyone, sons, daughters, introverts, extroverts and everyone in between. This should be read at the beginning of every school year to an entire school. Abigail Balfe has written this book as an ode to her experiences in discovering she is autistic, and looking back at her childhood and seeing things differently. Not just factual but full of humour, heart and wonderful illustrations. The book reads as though Abigail is in the room sharing these experiences conversationally, and before you realise it, you have finished the book and loved every page.
A Quick History of Politics by Clive Gifford and Steve Gavan, Published by Wide Eyed Editions
Another super book in this series from Wide Eyed Editions, this volume challenges readers to understand world politics and the history of politics. Beginning almost 10000 years ago, this book will walk you through pharaohs, democracy, revolutions and everything in between. Featuring the same colourful pages, fun illustrations and quips and puns, this is another brilliant volume for schools. Often we get hung up on our own political systems, not always understanding them, but we aren’t always sure of those from around the world. History hasn’t always been kind where politics was involved, this will help readers understand why. A very helpful timeline makes it all very clear.
Myths, Monsters and Mayhem in Ancient Greece by James Davies, Published by Big Picture Press
This book is fantastically illustrated and full of details, humour and retellings of Greek Myths. Told in graphic novel style of illustrations, the Greek Myths are truly brought to life for the reader. From the endpapers and throughout each page, James Davies proves his talent for style and detail. I was endlessly fascinated with the history, the gods and goddesses and the tales. Knowing of the tales, I was enchanted by these retellings and the way in which they are told. Readers of all ages will delight in this book and the fabulous myths. Ideal for school and home libraries, this would be an epic accompaniment for classes studying the Greeks, and it includes a map!
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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My Shelves Are Full 