Wide Eyed Editions – serie

Why do we dream? How come more people are right-than left-handed? What’s inside a black hole? Science is pretty amazing, but even though we know more about our universe than ever before, there still remain lots of unanswered questions that fascinate and perplex even the greatest scientific minds.These are the unknowns, the paradoxes and the things not fully explained or understood. This book is a compendium of these riveting unsolved mysteries, that still have us wondering... How? What? Why? Whisking readers through some of these holes in our scientific knowledge, the accessible and enjoyable book turns to the unanswered questions, what we do know, and some of the best current theories, as well as some of the most far out suggestions! From the personal (Why do we have fingerprints? Why do we yawn?) to the fundamental (How did life begin? Is anybody out there?) to the downright funny (Why do cats sit in circles?) Divided into chapters on People, Earth, Nature, Space and Miscellaneous Mysteries, this visually stunning compendium breaks down even the most complex topics and theories so everyone can puzzle over unanswered questions.The colourful and arresting artwork draws readers in further to ask How? What? And Why? This riveting book will capture the imagination of curious minds young and old. Maybe they can solve some of these riddles. Or maybe, some things will remain in the Mysteryverse ...

From Waterstones Children's Laureate Joseph Coelho comes a beautiful anthology of monthly nature poems which encourage a love for the natural world and the importance of looking after it. See how animals behave through the seasons, and the cycle of trees and plants, from the first blossoms of spring through to the stark winter wonderland in December. Twelve inspiring poems from Joseph Coelho, one for each month of the year, paired with folk art from Kelly Louise Judd give this book year-round appeal. A beautiful book for your bookshelf, to spark an idea for your own poem, or to teach a love for nature and to help children foster a love for the natural world. 'Heart-flutteringly lovely and powerful' - Book Trust'In the classroom, this book could be used as a reference for writers to create their own season poems; play with the language of the original poems or pair their own personal memories with the weather or changing seasons.' - North Somerset Teachers Book Award'This will appeal to all ages and never date...' - LoveReading4KidsWith stunning illustrations, this true celebration of the world we live in is a treasure for you and your child to share.

This compelling and important history of the British Empire, told from the perspective of 20 people who lived through it, tells the story of one of the largest and most powerful empires in human history.At one time, the British Empire ruled over almost a quarter of the world’s population. Men, women and children from all walks of life and from across the globe were affected in big and small ways, from the clothes they wore, the food they ate and the languages they spoke to the work they did and the rights they held. This legacy and impact is still evident all over the world today.This book shines a light on the human aspects of the ‘Empire where the sun never sets’, introducing readers to a host of figures, both powerful and modest, who lived through, challenged, and influenced the course of the British Empire. But how did this empire come to be? And what happened to the people whose lands were colonised? The people whose lives were touched? This book tells their stories and reclaims this chapter in history by giving voice to 20 real figures whose perspectives have often been ignored, overlooked or sidelined.Their stories are told in a first-person narrative style, allowing readers to see through the eyes of these inspiring history-keepers. From leaders and activists to poets and freedom fighters, the book features a range of figures from across five continents, shining a light on the human aspect of the British Empire.Meet Queen Nanny, the escaped slave who led a fight for freedom against the British in Jamaica. Hear the story of Rani of Jhansi, a key figure in the Indian resistance movement against British colonial rule. Learn about Tejonihokarawa, the Mohawk leader who travelled to London on a diplomatic mission.  These engaging true stories of resistance, community, struggle and hope will spark conversations, foster a broader, decolonized understanding of the reaches and impacts of colonialism and ultimately leave readers inspired. After all, understanding our past and its echoes in our lives today is a step towards a better future.

In the 21st century, a scientist uncovers their Victorian ancestor’s notebook in a box. This ancestor is Dr McCreebor – an eminent explorer, philosopher and collector of the very strange and truly creepy. Dr McCreebor's book is filled with the dark and disturbing stories he has collected on his travels around the world. And now, after over 125 years in a dusty attic, Dr McCreebor’s writings can be read… by only the bravest. Discover the fascinating stories behind a series of objects, people and placesin every chapter. McCreebor writes from a Victorian perspective – and his descendant isn't afraid to write notes in the margins, bringing the science into the 21st century.Uncover Artificalia (man-made objects), Naturalia (natural creatures and beings), Spiritualis (the spirit world), ScelereSupplicium (crime and punishment), Scientifica (scientific tools), Magicae (magical objects) and Morteum (skulls, bodies and more). Steampunk illustrator Celsius Pictor intricately illustrates McCreebor’s sketches, maps, records and photographs.From shrunken heads to witches’ charms, saints’ blood to graverobbers’ remains, hangman’s salve to trepanning tools, this book is a peek into our grisly and macabre past.

Show boredom the red card with the Football Fantastic Activity Book, a fun-packed, interactive dive into all things football!Play your way through over 30 activities designed to delight any football-mad 7+ year-old. Find out unbelievable facts about your favourite players, teams and stadiums while tackling fun challenges and tasks, including: Assembling your own football dream team, complete with badge, kit and your fantasy super-squad.Designing your own super-stylish – or silly – hairdo.Matching players to their signature celebrations.True-or-false quizzes to test your footie knowledge.Much, much more!Just like the Beautiful Game, the Football Fantastic Activity Book has something for everyone, whether you like art, puzzles, words, or are simply sports-crazy! So what are you waiting for? Kick off your summer holidays with the Football Fantastic Activity Book!Have you read The Big Book of Football by MUNDIAL? This go-to guide is a must-have for any footie fan, filled with everything you could ever want to know about the world's favourite sport and the people who make it great.

Welcome all rascals and tricksters to this marvellous miscellany of mischief and magic!This playful book explores the world of deception and trickery – both the good and the bad. Learn the secrets of infamous magic illusions and tricks and discover the stories of some of history’s most notorious hoaxes, pranks, and cons. While some are great fun, others contain a serious lesson . . . after all, understanding scams of the past can help protect you in the future.Meet infamous pranksters such as Marcel Duchamp (the French artist who pranked the art world), renowned illusionists and escape artists such as Adelaide Hermann (one of the first female magicians), and cunning con-artists such as George C. Parker (the American who "sold" the Statue of Liberty). The themed spreads explore a range of topics such as made-up monsters, alien conspiracies, doctored photos, disguises and pseudonyms, April Fool's Day pranks, and much more. If you’re feeling mischievous, you can even follow the steps and tips spaced throughout the book to try your hand at some pranks and magic tricks of your own! But keep your wits about you, because fake hoaxes are included within the pages for eagle-eyed readers to try to spot!  Perfect for readers young and old who delight in a bit of mischief.

The race for riches is on, and one bold expedition is about to make history. The Voyage That Changed the World follows Ferdinand Magellan’s journey around the globe – and shines a light on the people who helped shape it, including Enrique de Malacca, the Malay interpreter whose story has been left out for far too long.This extraordinary non-fiction adventure takes readers on a journey through stormy seas, strange lands and high-stakes encounters, revealing the triumphs and tensions of the world’s first circumnavigation. Along the way, it invites children to think critically about empire, exploration and the voices that history too often leaves behind.Written and illustrated with boldness and sensitivity by Thekla Priebst, this is a powerful retelling that reclaims a global story for a new generation. Perfect for readers aged 8 and up who are ready to look beyond the textbook and into the real past.

Discover life lessons in the secret superpowers of animals, revealed in this enchantingly illustrated children’s book by bestselling author Kate Siber.  Animals have a lot to teach us, if only we open our eyes. From the slow-moving sloth to the playful dolphin, every living creature has unique skills, strengths and qualities that we can learn from. The Hidden Wisdom of Animals invites kids ages 8 and up to explore and celebrate over 40 animals from around the world through warm, lyrical 100–500-word reflections, each focusing on a single animal and the outstanding trait it embodies.  The book’s stirring lessons are enhanced by its stunning design, featuring a foil-accented cover and captivating illustrations by Kaitlynn Copithorne. Within its colourful pages, explore how:Owls listen deeplyJellyfish go with the flowAnts create great communitiesSquirrels plan aheadFireflies shine from withinAnd much moreBlending eye-popping facts, brilliant science,anecdotes and, where appropriate, myths and legends from cultures across the globe, from American Indigenous traditions to African lore to European folk beliefs, The Hidden Wisdom of Animals inspires a more reflective, personal relationship with wildlife and shows how animals can teach, inspire and encourage us in our own lives.   Transporting kids from their screen-filled lives to a magical world of natural wonder, this book offers a deeper, more meaningful way to connect with nature.

Discover the unbelievable inventions and innovations of ancient people from across the world.   This technological treasury of hidden histories uncovers gadgets and gizmos from the ancient and recent past to change the way you think about history and science.   See inside steam-powered robots from ancient Greece, learn the secrets of medieval alchemy and marvel at an earthquake detector from ancient China. Forget your dusty history books – this is a book of marvels that are stranger than fiction!  Spanning five continents and thousands of years, That Was Genius includes: Incredible innovations from the ancient world, including razor-sharp obsidian tools, a mystical Viking compass and Aboriginal Australian songlines. Enormous libraries that once housed knowledge now lost to time, such as those of Alexandria and Baghdad. Spotlight inventors whose wildest dreams went unrealised – ranging from the original Renaissance Man, Leonardo da Vinci, to computing pioneer Ada Lovelace. Each spread is packed with fascinating details on the science behind each invention, as well as puzzlebox illustrations which invite you to solve the mysteries of the distant past yourself . . .   Perfect for curious minds and budding inventors, That Was Genius invites you to rethink what ancient people knew, built and imagined – and to see the modern world with fresh eyes.

Welcome to the Crab Museum's guide to the incredible living machine that is the brain! Through unbelievable facts and hilarious jokes, The No-Brainer Brain Explainer explores the smallest, biggest, toughest, foldiest, brainiest brains in the animal kingdom.Take a tour through the imagination of dung beetles, marvel at cockroach brains that are spread all throughout their body, and meet octopuses with their nine brains. Discover the brains behind massive insect colonies, flocking birds and intelligent fungal networks, and of course, the smartest brain of all, according to itself: yours! You'll also uncover:What brains are made of and why they're importantWhere to find your second brainHow brains help us time travelThe fruitfly brain, the most well-studied brain everThe evolution of brainsWhat makes a brain 'intelligent'The limits of brains, like confusion, phobias and mental wellbeingMuch, much more...Accompanied throughout by quirky illustrations, this book asks BIG questions about consciousness, types of intelligence, language, co-operation and other brainy topics, perfect for any young scientist, animal lover or just plain brainiac. Need your brain explained? This is a no-brainer!

Only in London explores the extraordinary history, people, landmarks and hidden details that make the capital one of the world’s most fascinating cities.From its origins as Roman Londinium to the buzzing metropolis of today, readers uncover London’s story through timelines, maps and vivid illustrations. Along the way, they’ll discover iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral and Tower Bridge, alongside the city’s ever-changing skyline of domes, spires and modern skyscrapers.The book ventures beneath the streets to explore the London Underground, uncovering how the world’s oldest metro was built and used – from steam trains and design breakthroughs to sheltering Londoners during the Blitz. Above ground, readers follow the River Thames, learning how its bridges, tides, mudlarkers and flood defences shaped the city.Curiosity is encouraged at every turn, with spreads on hidden rivers flowing under the streets, mysterious symbols and royal cyphers carved into buildings, curious street names, historic hanging signs and coats of arms. Walking tours guide readers through key moments in London’s past, including the Great Fire of London and the lasting impact of the Second World War.Nature lovers will discover London’s surprisingly green side, from royal parks and ancient woodlands to urban wildlife, plane trees, pelicans and peregrine falcons. The book also celebrates art, sculpture, museums, engineering marvels and the emergency services that keep the city running.The journey finishes with a vibrant collection of London’s changemakers — writers, activists, musicians, designers and thinkers who helped shape the city and its culture.Rich in facts, stories and visual detail, Only in London invites young readers to look closer, ask questions and see the capital in a whole new way.

There are hours of fun in this epic two-in-one search-and-find activity book, designed to build children's confidence with letters, numbers and early observation skills!  Search & Find Alphabet of Alphabets and Number of Numbers brings together two engaging activity books in a single flipbook format. With over fifty detailed scenes to explore, children will develop essential early‑learning skills as they search, count, recognise letters and follow visual prompts.  The two-in-one format contains both: Alphabet of Alphabets: twenty‑six A–Z visual alphabets, from an Alphabet of Birds to an Alphabet of Zoo, each filled with items for every letter. Number of Numbers: flip the book over to count from 1 to 100 through imaginative, themed search‑and‑find puzzles including farms, oceans, cities, outer space and more. Across both halves of the flip‑book, children follow clear prompts and spot items, giving them meaningful practice in recognising letters and numbers. Each spread is complete with striking and detailed artwork by Allan Sanders, offering a fun and rewarding seek‑and‑find experience with every page turn.  Perfect for school and home-learning, this expansive search‑and‑find flip‑book encourages children to look closely, explore creatively and develop their ABC and 123 skills with confidence.

Why do ships sink? What really happens when they go down? Join Dr Profundo on a voyage across the world’s waters to uncover the astonishing true stories behind real-life shipwrecks.  With more than 50 fascinating case studies uncovering the mysteries surrounding shipwrecks beneath the waves, The Shipwreck Atlas offers a captivating journey through maritime history and discovery. Written by Jo Arnold, a trusted voice in children’s books, this immersive guide provides an expert yet accessible look at what lies hidden on the seabed.  For example, readers will learn about:  The Mary Rose, a shipwreck which left historians scratching their heads for centuries.  The SS Gairsoppa which sank in just twenty minutes. The HMS Erebus and HMS Terror which were trapped in ice before sinking in Arctic Waters in 1848. SS Sultana’s deadly explosion on the Mississippi River. . . . and many more extraordinary stories from across the world’s waters. Each spread features full-bleed artwork and engaging annotations, bringing the drama and mystery of each wreck to life. Discover the ships in their glory days and their resting places on the ocean floor, zoom in on remarkable artefacts and learn fascinating facts through ‘Did you know?’ bubbles and ‘In numbers’ lists. Perfect for curious minds, The Shipwreck Atlas combines adventure, history and science in a visually stunning package. This is the ultimate book for young explorers, budding historians and anyone fascinated by the secrets that lie beneath the sea.

Journey into the four elemental forces that have shaped our world and define our future – perfect for curious young readers.   Earth, Wind, Fire, Water blends science, history and culture in an accessible and awe‑inspiring exploration of how these ancient forces connect every part of life on Earth.  As you move from Earth to Wind to Fire to Water, you’ll explore:  Earth: dig deep into geology, fossils, minerals and the treasures beneath our feet, from soil health and the nitrogen cycle to the building blocks of life. Wind: discover the secrets of our atmosphere from the gases that sustain us to the layers of air above our heads and the global weather systems that create clouds, storms and lightning. Fire: journey to the Earth’s fiery core and the sun’s life‑giving heat, uncovering how fire forged landscapes and transformed human civilisation. Water: follow the miraculous water cycle, the moon‑driven tides, the power of glaciers, and the vast diversity of rivers, seas, and oceans that make Earth habitable. Every page is brought to life by captivating illustrations and compelling facts that reveal the power of our natural world. The cover is complete with gorgeous foil finishes, perfect for gifting to curious children. This is an inspiring call for future generations to understand the elements that sustain us and to protect the planet we all share.

Sportopedia is your ultimate guide to the exhilarating world of sport. Learn amazing facts about all your favourite sports, and discover new ones you may not have come across before. Whether you're into team sports, target sports, track and field, or aquatic sports, this book showcases a diverse array of athletes – male, female, able-bodied and Paralympians – and celebrates the unique talents of sportspeople everywhere, making it a treasure trove for all the family to share.With basic tenets and rules as well as more niche facts all explained, this book serves as a complete encyclopedia to the sporting world.Covering ball sports, such as soccer, rugby, volleyball, lacrosse, rugby and cricket; racket sports such as tennis, table tennis and badminton; athletics and gymnastics; target sports such as shooting, archery and golf; as well as combat sports such as judo, karate and boxing, this book covers everything from very well known activities to the more niche sporting hobbies such as boccia and kabaddi.Sport-loving kids will find hours of entertainment and fascinating information in this awesome encyclopedia.

Camouflage has long captured our imaginations — from the Arctic fox disappearing into snowy tundra to the leafy sea dragon drifting unnoticed among swaying seaweed. This big, beautiful book celebrates nature’s true masters of disguise from habitats around the globe.Turn the pages and set off on an adventure through snow, deserts, jungles, grasslands, rivers and seas, and towering mountains. Along the way, you’ll meet incredible animals like the ghostly snowy owl, the perfectly patterned leopard, the shape-shifting mimic octopus and the almost invisible spider-tailed horned viper. Look closely — there’s often more than meets the eye.Each chapter explores a different habitat, introducing the animals that live there over stunning, immersive illustrations. Discover how a ptarmigan blends into rocky slopes, how a wobbegong shark vanishes against the ocean floor, and how a horned lizard melts into desert sand. At the end of every chapter, a special “in-action” section challenges you to spot the camouflaged creatures hidden in their surroundings.Featuring 30 remarkable animals — from polar bears and cheetahs to golden moles — this book is a perfect gift for curious readers and animal lovers aged 7+.