From the first UFO abduction to the disappearance of plane MH370, there have been matters to perplex mankind for decades. Here the author uses expert testimony, scientific knowledge and historical fact to help explain the unexplainable.
Prisoners of Geography by Tim Marshall
Published end of October 2019.
An a accessible book about geopolitics.
How did the USA become a superpower?; Why do people go to war?; And why are some countries rich while others are so poor?; Find the answers to these questions and many more in this eye-opening book, which uses maps to explain how geography has shaped the history of our world. Discover how the choices of world leaders are swayed by mountains, rivers and seas – and why geography means that history is always repeating itself. This remarkable, unique introduction to world affairs will inspire curious minds everywhere.; A stunning abridged and illustrated edition of an international adult bestseller.
The History Of Prehistory by Mick Manning and Brita Granstrom
New title from the author-artist duo celebrated for their unique brand of illustrated non-fiction.
Will help younger children grasp the key periods of pre-history and gain a sense of the long-term chronology of our planet. With a visual timeline and a game to play.
A must-have for primary libraries.
Mythologica by Stephen Kershaw ill. Victoria Topping
An illustrated encyclopedia of Greek mythology like no other, Mythologica features startlingly beautiful and exquisitely otherworldly portraits of mythological characters in eye-popping colour from artist Victoria Topping and authoritative text from Classics scholar and Greek mythology expert Dr Stephen Kershaw.
Rise Up: Ordinary Kids With Extraordinary Stories by Amanda Li, ill. Amy Blackwell
Features over 29 tales of amazing young girls and boys who have achieved the unimaginable – from surviving a plane crash in the jungle to striking against climate change. There are tales of triumphing over illness and injury, and of overcoming bullying. Entries include Greta Thunberg, Boyan Slat and Phiona Mutesi, to name a few.
“Brief, punchy biographies are interspersed with how-to tips…” GUARDIAN REVIEW
Guiness World Records 2020
Celebrate the dawning of a new decade with the fully revised Guinness World Records 2020.
A new decade means it’s time for a fresh approach, so starting with the front cover, there is a re-booted all-new design. There’s a new look inside as well – a team of digital artists has created mind-blowing poster pages that will reveal some of the classic record holders in a whole new light.
N.B. Please check Waterstones’ half-price offer before ordering
The Butterfly House by Katy Flint ill. Alice Pattullo
Step inside the butterfly house, where wonderful, winged insects await. Spot the sleepy oranges mud-puddling, the monarchs migrating, or the green swallowtail beating its shimmering wings. With information on many butterfly and moth families, this gift package is the perfect introduction to the world’s most beautiful insects.
D-Day by Michael Noble ill. Alexander Mostov
Relive the events of June 6, 1944 through eye witness accounts that describe 20 real-life stories from the D-Day landings. This book – which presents collated photographs, personal accounts and testimonies from all sides with full-page illustrations dramatizing individual roles – brings a key moment in history to life for young readers hearing about the event for the first time.
The Wonders Of Nature by Ben Hoare, ill. Angela Rizza and Daniel Long
The opposite of a textbook, this beautifully illustrated, descriptive encyclopedia introduces children to 100 of nature’s most remarkable animals, plants, minerals, and microscopic organisms. From orchids to opals and tapirs to toadstools, this book is filled with incredible facts and fascinating stories.
Each entry is accompanied by rich photography and colourful illustrations, and children will love poring over the detailed close-up images.
The Dictionary Of Difficult Words by Jane Solomon ill. Louise Lockhart
Jane Solomon is an American lexicographer and she has compiled the most wonderful collection of strange and beguiling words. I love this book! It has words in it for all ages. I’m a cat lover but I didn’t realise that makes me an ‘ailurophile’.
There are words for our times: “kakistocracy” = government ruled by the worst people…
Words that will become instant favourites: “lollapalooza” a person or thing that is highly impressive…
Words to reserve for a special put-down” “ultracrepidarian” someone who has big opinions about things they know nothing about…
There are no very rude words and a commendable avoidance of patronising gutter humour.
“Vomitorium” is simply described as what it is, a passageway to a Roman amphitheatre.
It is splendidly designed and illustrated. One of the best non-fiction books of 2019. Do yourself a favour and hunt it out.