Book Title: The Book of Big Science Ideas (available here)
Author: Freya Hardy
Illustrator: Sara Mulvanny
Publisher: Ivy Kids
Publication Date: October 2019
Most Suitable For: KS2
Reviewed By: Gabrielle McConalogue, Class Teacher
Brought to you by the writers of Aquila children’s magazine, The Book of Big Science Ideas does exactly what its title suggests, offering a breakdown of fifteen of the biggest science ideas that have shaped the way we understand our world.
The book introduces the importance of ideas, followed by an explanation of the scientific method before delving into each big idea in detail. The topics covered include atoms, our expanding universe, evolution, electricity and more. There is also a brief look at what might be the next big idea to come to fruition.
Each idea is shared on a double-page spread, followed by another page of ‘Big Thinkers’- the scientists who most influenced the understanding of that concept. The ideas are broken down into easily manageable sections and explained simply and clearly for young readers. The accompanying illustrations make the concepts easier to understand.
The ‘Big Thinkers’ chosen are varied and there are a few of them I admit I did not know before. They are covered chronologically and their impact is discussed, as well as their notable successes, failures and in some cases, truly barmy ideas!
The design and layout of the book are engaging and make it easy to dip in and out of. There are little jokes and quirky illustrations throughout that make it appealing as well as educational.
This book tackles some of the big questions children may have about the world around them that adults sometimes struggle to answer simply and I would recommend this book particularly for those with curious, questioning children around them! As a teacher, I certainly have learned some new ways to explain difficult concepts to my class
Also features on:
– 2019 Christmas Gift Guide (Ages 9-11)
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You can order The Book of Big Science Ideas online or from your local bookshop or library.
Many thanks to the publisher for sending us a review copy of this book and to Review Panel member Gabrielle for reviewing it.
Where next?
> Visit our Reading for Pleasure Hub
> Browse our Topic Booklists
> View our printable year group booklists.
> See our Books of the Month.
