Simon Chapman Books

“Rivers”, written by Simon Chapman and illustrated by Qu Lan, is a geographical masterpiece and educational gem that breathes life into the vast, diverse world of our planet’s waterways.

The book has a superb balance between text and image, a testament to Chapman’s writing and Lan’s exceptional artistic skill. It presents geographical facts and a vivid story unfolding across every continent, showcasing rivers in all their glory. Chapman’s keen sense of adventure and passion for exploration are evident throughout the book. His detailed yet accessible narration of the journey of a river is expertly supplemented with an ecologist’s viewpoint, thanks to the contributions of river ecologist François Edwards. This combination of adventure, exploration, and factual accuracy will ignite curiosity in students about the natural world and engage pupils in geography, ecology, and history.

The six rivers featured – the Amazon, Nile, Mississippi, Rhine, Ganges, and Murray – are depicted with intricate detail on the beautifully executed fold-out pages, allowing for a more immersive reading experience. Equally interesting is the focus on the human relationship with waterways. This perspective offers a unique opportunity for educators to discuss geography and wildlife and delve into the history of the civilisations that have thrived along the rivers, spanning various curriculum subjects. The beautifully crafted illustrations by Qu Lan bring an enchanting visual element to the book, with intricate details and vibrant colours that capture the essence of each river and the wildlife it supports. The images can prompt discussions, help in comprehension, and offer a multi-sensory experience that caters to various learning styles in the classroom.

This book will be valuable to every educator, parent, and professional library in the children’s education sector. It is an educational gem that is a must-have tool to inspire a love for geography, history, and the environment.