Several new information books have been published in recent months and this is just a small selection of some of my favourites for children from about four to early secondary age.

Wise About My Body written by Libby Walden Illustrated by Ekaterinburg Trukhan

This colourful guide to the human body describes for young children how their bodies work and move and how they should be looked after. Using clear and appropriate language and presented in an uncluttered style this book includes information on a wide range of topics including differences, disabilities and consent in addition to facts about the skeleton, the major organs, senses and circulation. There are helpful sections on healthy eating and exercise, cleanliness and getting enough sleep. The illustrations are clear and child friendly contributing greatly to the overall appeal. Published by Ladybird Books on 1st June this would be a great introduction to the human body for children age 4+ and would be valuable in school libraries and classrooms and at home too.

I Am You Are: Let’s talk about disability, individuality and empowerment written by Ashley Harris Whaley Illustrated by Ananya Rao- Middleton

Also from Ladybird Books for a similar age group this excellent book by disability activist Ashley Harris Whaley is a practical book enabling adults to explain what disability is and why it should be celebrated. It is important that children learn how to talk about this subject and this book provides key information in an engaging manner supporting their understanding and with relatable examples. From the introduction explaining that we are all different and moving on to a definition of the term disability Ashley Harris Whaley looks at key words and concepts in an accessible manner. The reader learns about ableism, the problem with making assumptions and the importance of using acceptable terms and descriptions. The tone is inclusive and positive incorporating many different examples such as learning disabilities, cerebral palsy, deafness, Down Syndrome and autism. In addition to providing valuable information and background it also stresses the importance of thoughtfulness in attitudes towards all people whatever their differences may be. There is a helpful glossary and a note at the end for adults reading the book. Published in May and a must buy for primary school libraries.

Sharks! Sharks! Sharks! written by Susan Martineau illustrated by Vicky Barker

The award winning publisher, b small, produce some fabulous, appealing and educational books for children and this new book published this month is an excellent example. Pitched at children of about 5+ this will satisfy the most curious of enthusiasts as it is full of fascinating information. The bright, attractive illustrations are instantly appealing encouraging browsing and the eye catching cover provides instant shelf appeal. The presentation throughout the whole book is engaging and the cross section of the shark is well done creating an excellent learning tool. Young readers will discover everything they could possibly want to know about sharks within these pages from how they look after their young, to what they eat and their history. Many different types of sharks are included from tiny ones to enormous ones and even those that glow in the dark. There are posters and colouring sheets linked to the book available on the publisher’s website too. The list of ‘special shark words’ on the final pages is helpful. This is the kind of book that is shared by enthusiastic children in the school library and is recommended for home bookshelves too.

Plants To The Rescue! written by Dr Vikram Baliga illustrated by Brian Lambert

Published by Neon Squid next month this vibrantly illustrated book looks at how plants may help us with challenges such as climate change and producing enough food for everyone. The author explores the world of plants and provides the reader with a glimpse of the work being done by scientists to use plants to help us in the future. Baliga opens with a definition of what a plant is and then moves swiftly on to looking at examples of plants and how they are used, or may possibly be used in the future, to help us. He does occasionally bend his own rules by for example including reference to algae and fungi which are not plants however this remains a fascinating and enjoyable book crammed full of information and discussion. There are sections on the benefits of spending time outdoors and plants as medicine plus advice on growing plants ourselves. This is wide ranging in its coverage and may prompt children to research some items further and more deeply. Suitable for children from approximately 9+.

Usborne Friendship Survival Guide written by Caroline Young

What is a friend? How do you make new friends and be a good friend yourself? What happens when you fall out with friends? Is social media helpful or not? All these questions and issues are covered in this readable guide published in April by Usborne. Expert advice from clinical psychologist Dr Angharad Rudkin is incorporated and there are quizzes to complete plus useful links to websites offering guidance and support. Friendships can be tricky to navigate at any age and this accessible book is well pitched for its target audience of about 11+ although it would be useful to parents and teachers too. Caroline Young’s tone throughout is positive and she provides children and young people with tools and suggestions to help them cope with friendship difficulties in a sensible manner. The importance of kindness, respect and loyalty in friendships is stressed and the section on social media is comprehensive and thoughtful. This would be an excellent book for school libraries to stock and would be particularly useful for the transition stage from primary to secondary school.

I should like to thank Ladybird Books, b small publishers, Naomi Weeks, Neon Squid, Malu Rocha, Usborne Books and Amy Dobson for my review copies. All these books are now available to purchase at your local independent bookshop or online at ukbookshop.org by clicking on the individual titles above.

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