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.

*2024 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List**2024 Bank Street College of Education Best Children's Book of the Year: STEM**2023 Kirkus Reviews Best Picture Book of the Year**2023 Science Friday Best Science Book For Kids Selection**2023 Book Riot Must-Read Picture Book**2023 Amazon Top 20 Children’s Books of 2023: Ages 6-8!**2023 Smithsonian Top 10 Best Children’s Books*Learn the funny and fascinating story of Charles Darwin and the groundbreaking discoveries that resulted from his love of the humble worm in this hilarious, illustrated children’s book.Charles Darwin is widely known for his Origin of Species book, yet Darwin had another great love, and that was for worms.Told for the first time for children, this is the silly and fascinating true story of how Charles Darwin came to discover that the humble earthworm is the most important species on our planet.Darwin suspected worms were special but his scientist friends laughed at him. In a quest to find out the worms’ special talent, Darwin played the bassoon to the worms to see if they could hear, laid out a picnic treasure hunt for them to see how well they could smell, among many other bizarre but entirely true experiments. But so far Darwin didn’t find anything extra special about worms. Until, one day he realised that worms do have a superpower. They POO! Without their life-sustaining, nutrient-rich poo, there would be no plants and no animals on earth. Darwin’s 40 years studying worms is still essential to our understanding of worms today, and ever since, scientists have taken him VERY seriously, and never again laughed at his love of worms. The story of Darwin and the worms not only centres around the perennially brilliant subject of poo, it: Teaches children about a key historic figure, the food cycle and deductive scientific thinking.Is also a heartwarming story of the triumph of a zany underdog who won’t let bullies get in the way of his love for worms.Is told in a humorous and engaging way, with nonfiction information on each page to help educate alongside the story.Features charming and humorous full-colour illustrations.Curious minds will love this fact-filled, laugh-out-loud book.

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.

What's your favourite animal fact? Have you ever wondered who discovered it in the first place? Chances are, it was a zoologist!Join the scientists uncovering the secrets of the animal kingdom in this funny, fact-packed introduction to zoology. The Who, What, Why of Zoology is an exciting first book on this fascinating field of science. From the deepest oceans to Himalayan valleys, zoologists explore far and wide to better understand the worlds of mammals, birds, fish, reptiles and nearly anything else that can walk, fly or swim!Not only is this book filled with up-to-the-minute facts about your favourite animals, but it also goes behind the scenes and out in the field to show how real zoologists find out more about the creatures we know, and even discover new ones.Each chapter dives into a different real-world environment to observe the animals that live there, then fills the scene with zoologists to explore how this exciting science actually works. Then, turn the page to learn about the modern mysteries to which scientists are still searching for answers. Every page is bursting with facts you've never heard before, as well as plenty of funny detail to keep you searching for hours.With chapters including:   Tropical Reefs Arctic Tundra Deserts Rainforests Deep Oceans ... and many more!The Who, What, Why of Zoology is the perfect introduction to an important STEM topic for readers aged 6-9, combining expertise from zoologist author Jules Howard with vibrant and humour-filled illustrations from Lucy Letherland. Bring science to life with this one-of-a-kind animal book!

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.

Ghosts and ghouls, crypts and cryptids await you in The Book of Frights for Spooky Nights, the illustrated notes of a long-gone Ghost Hunter – a guru from beyond the grave who explored the world's scariest places.As you flick through the Ghost Hunter's chilling firsthand narrative, you'll experience running from the headsman's axe in the Tower of London, seeking out the seasick spirits aboard the Queen Mary in California, and escaping the pharaoh's wrath in the Valley of the Kings, with this frighteningly factual compendium of spooky sites from around the globe. For each haunted locale, you'll first read the research of the Ghost Hunter, learning all about the real history and beliefs behind the creepy goings-on. Then, you're put in the middle of the action as you read their account of visiting each place in an attempt to finally complete the Book of Frights, and end its curse for good... From treading the storied cemeteries of Edinburgh to dodging the Headless Horseman in Connecticut, these are adventures you wouldn't want to go on alone!As well as the featured locations, scattered throughout the book are many more secrets and facts to uncover in the bitesize tales of the Ghost Hunter's travels to farflung places, grouping together spooky castles, eerie countryside, forests of fear, and even whole islands said to be haunted.With hauntingly beautiful illustrations and a thrilling fact-or-fiction, book-within-a-book narrative, The Book of Frights for Spooky Nights is best read by the flickering light of a campfire, or a torch way past bedtime...

The UFO Files are the recently de-classified notes on a moment that captivates humanity: the arrival of an alien spacecraft on Planet Earth.The year is 2033. An investigator known only as Polaris has compiled this report into every aspect of the spaceship and the beings that built it. Piece by piece, uncover a thrilling narrative of courage and curiosity during this closest of encounters, while delving into the cutting-edge science and technology that help Polaris understand—and welcome—these visitors from a distant star system.Read the torn-out headlines announcing an unexplained radio signal from outer space, then learn all about the electromagnetic spectrum and how we use it to communicate. Come face to face with the flying drones that emerge from the spacecraft, then delve into how dragonflies have mastered the art of flight. And as the mystery of who or what lies within the spaceship unfolds, discover the animals on Earth—including glowing squid and photosynthetic sea slugs—that are so strange as to be almost alien.Every beat of the story is supported by clear, concise explanations of mind-blowing science for 9–12-year-olds, as well as out-of-this-world illustrations by Weston Wei.Other topics include:Nuclear fusion and clean energyUsing AI to decode an unknown languageExoplanets, stars, and astronomyThe Fermi paradox and the likelihood of alien lifeHow rockets flyMany, many moreThe UFO Files is not just a compelling sci-fi story or a primer on core STEM subjects—it's both at once! Above all, it is a celebration of scientific curiosity, tolerance, and the awe that comes when we open our minds to the stars and wonder whether we are not alone.

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.

Uncover the secrets of the past with the latest archaeological knowhow in Dig!, a scientific journey through millions of years of human history.Do you have a favourite history fact? Maybe you know that the ancient Romans had central heating, or that humans once shared this planet with giant sloths. But have you ever wondered how we know all that? The answer is archaeology!The ancient past may seem like it's frozen in time, but in fact it never stops changing, thanks to archaeology. In Dig!, you'll join archaeologists on excavations, marvel at the most incredible archaeological finds, and even witness the world as it was hundreds, thousands and millions of years ago. Real-life archaeologist Ruth Hatfield is your expert guide to the wonders of this amazing science, peeling back the layers with bitesize, clear and simple text. Illustrator Sophia Watts brings the past to life in buzzing, detail-rich scenes and spotlight artefacts.As you dig up the history beneath your feet, here are just some of the finds you'll come face-to-face with:Our earliest ancestor in EthiopiaThe Vikings' softer sideHundred-thousand-year-old head liceThe afterlife army of China's first emperorA Greek palace buried 3,000 years ago by a volcanic eruptionThe 'living' archaeology of rapidly changing places... and all the techniques archaeologists use to investigate, from cutting-edge technology to the simple power of observation!When you're finished digging up the past, turn to the back of the book for a complete timeline of your discoveries, as well as tips on how to start doing archaeology from your own back garden.Dig! is packed with the newest and most fascinating facts from the world of archaeology, and is perfect for any budding historian 6–8 years old, as a STEM-focused introduction to a future career – or simply as an invitation to go outside, get some dirt under their fingernails, and see what they dig up!

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!

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.

A spellbinding journey through the Moon’s mysteries and magic.  For thousands of years, the Moon has been our glowing companion in the night sky and a source of wonder for scientists, storytellers and stargazers alike. Chasing the Moon is your magical guide to its phases and the amazing ways it has inspired people all over the world. Take a moonlit adventure through exciting stories, mystical legends and ancient ideas to learn all about our special connection with the Moon. Travel back in time to see how ancient civilisations understood it – from Egyptian gods to Chinese astronomers – and journey around the globe to discover traditions and celebrations that honour the Moon. Chasing the Moon follows these iconic phases: The New Moon, including how it affects high tides and a new year. The Waxing Moon, including moon dogs and halos, and the intriguing Scarab dance.  The Full Moon, including werewolves, eclipses and moon bathing. The Waning Moon, including the dark moon and bat migration. You’ll also explore lunar gardening and lunar phobia, moon bathing and glowing creatures, and how humans and animals use the Moon’s light. Plus, you’ll see incredible natural wonders like moonbows, eclipses and the tides.   With magical illustrations from Anna Stead providing a sumptuous backdrop for author Susan Hayes' dreamily crafted words, this is truly a spellbinding treat for anyone obsessed with all things celestial and lunar.

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.