Output details

Insect Detective

The originality of ‘Insect Detective’ lies in the way it is presented for young readers - for instance, a great deal of thought was given to the 'small text' which gives additional factual information along side the central narrative. Instead of simply presenting a series of factual statements about insects, young readers accompany a small boy upon a journey of discovery as he steps outside to explore the natural world around him. The illustrations are done in light watercolours by an award-winning artist who has endeavoured to capture the feeling of magic that young children feel when they are exploring the world for the very first time. The aim was to use language and concepts to which young children will be able to relate (‘Sometimes, when you think about these strange and wonderful things – moths hiding, ants talking, dragonflies changing – it’s hard to believe that they could really be true...’) and to make the book an interactive learning experience. So in addition to the closing words (‘But you don’t have to take my word for it… all you have to do is open the door and step outside’) the book ends with a series of practical activities, designed to encourage children to discover the natural world for themselves.