It’s science and it’s many things, actually it’s everything!
Poetry and design meet STEM subjects in the latest title from talented performer James Carter.
What exactly do we mean when we say science? Is science something we learn and revise? Or is it something inherent in the world around us, waiting to be explored and classified?
This beautifully designed book introduces science as the questions formed in curious minds that have been answered, and will continue to be answered in different ways so long as humans remain open minded and willing to explore the universe. From little things up close to us like the study of insects to massive, almost impossible to imagine things like the Big Bang, and even our own genetic make-up. So many things are fall under the banner of science.
It is so important for children to learn that science is about more than learning and reciting facts (although becoming familiar with existing knowledge is important). Experimentation and exploration can begin at an early age and continue through childhood and allowing young people to discover things and draw conclusions for themselves nurtures an interest in science that no textbook can achieve. Once Upon an Atom introduces the idea of being curious about different aspects of the world.
The other reason I love this book – as I loved Once Upon a Raindrop – is that it firmly proves that STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and maths) apporach is more rounded than the concept of STEM. Illustrations like the ones in this book can provoke scientifc questions. Hearing rhymes about different sciences on a regular basis through the early years equips children with an idea of what these subjects are when they begin to study them formally. Arts are about communicating lived experiences and this can be applied to non-fiction subjects as easily to fiction and less tangible experiences (such as love or courage).
Attractive illustrations in a limited colour pallette result in memorable images that would make great posters or postcards.
A wonderful collaboration that introduces science as a concept in a way that will enthuse young and not so young minds.
- Once Upon An Atom by James Carter and Willian Santiago is available now from Little Tiger Press, RRP £11.99. (Provided for review)
