Reviewed by Rama Gaind.
By Peter Macinnis, NLA Publishing, $29.99.
Our planet is captivating and awe-inspiring. Being enthusiastic about connecting young children with science is an obvious attribute for Peter Macinnis. This is evident
in the Australian Backyard Earth Scientist which explores the wonders above us in space, happenings hidden beneath the surface, the weather systems that impacts the way we live, the oceans that surround us and the land we walk on.
There’s so much more that it investigates as well. Find out where rain comes from and what geysers look like! Read about soil becoming too salty and why greenhouse gases are increasing. Did you know that fog is a cloud sitting on the ground and that ice can tell you about the environment of millions of years ago? What is lightning anyway?
Australian Backyard Earth Scientist is full of fantastic photos and fascinating information that helps to explain different aspects of earth science – a science that discovered how old the earth is, what fossils tell us, how mountains were created, what causes earthquakes, what’s the difference between weather and climate and why glaciers are melting.
From the beginnings of the planet through to climate change, this compilation includes interesting fun facts and projects help develop an understanding and appreciation – like making your own fossils, collecting cloud types and using tree rings to find out about past weather. Young readers can discover the influences that have fashioned our earth – and are still acting to change it.
It’s a great resource for kids eager to get in some hands-on training. A practical understanding will ensure they get a chance to learn how the planet came to be, to learn more about the planet and how it fluctuates over time.
The facts are in abundance with detailed explanations and cool sections that dive into subjects for a closer look. You’ll find chapters on rocks, weather, oceans, climate change and more, cool ‘did you know’ sections throughout and information whenever a new area of earth science is introduced.
Macinnis is an award-winning science and history writer who excels at his craft!
