The Big Book of the Blue
by Yuval Zommer

The Big Book Of The Blue

The Big Book of the Blue is a children's reference book authored and illustrated by Yuval Zommer, published by Thames & Hudson in 2018. It is the third installment in Zommer's popular "Big Book" series, following The Big Book of Bugs and The Big Book of Beasts.

Overview

This book serves as an engaging introduction to marine life, aimed at children aged six and up. It features a variety of sea creatures, from well-known animals like whales and octopuses to lesser-known species such as dragonets and gulper eels. Each creature is showcased on a double-page spread, accompanied by questions that spark curiosity, such as "What makes a pufferfish puff?" and "Why does a crab run sideways?" This approach makes the facts accessible and interesting for young readers.

Illustrations and Content

Zommer's illustrations are noted for their vibrant colors and intricate details, which invite readers to explore the underwater world visually. The book incorporates an interactive element, encouraging readers to find a hidden sardine throughout its pages. Additionally, it includes a detailed index, a glossary cleverly titled "Fishy Phrases," and thematic explorations of different marine environments, including rock pools and the oceanic abyss.

Environmental Message

A significant aspect of The Big Book of the Blue is its environmental message. It addresses the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems, particularly focusing on issues like plastic pollution and overfishing. The book not only celebrates ocean life but also emphasizes the importance of protecting it, making it both educational and timely.

Overall, The Big Book of the Blue is praised for its engaging content, beautiful illustrations, and its ability to communicate important ecological themes in a manner that resonates with children.

Author: Yuval Zommer

Yuval graduated from the Royal College of Art with an MA in Illustration. He worked as a creative director at leading advertising agencies before becoming the author and illustrator of highly acclaimed non-fiction. Yuval's stunning 'Big Book of...' series encourages children to explore and care for our natural world. The series has now been published in 25 languages and has won and been shortlisted for numerous awards internationally, including the UKLA Book Awards 2018 & 2019, the English Association's Non-fiction Award 2017 & 2019, and the Made For Mums Award 2018 & 2019.

Book Details:

  • Publisher: Thames and Hudson
  • Format: Hardback
  • Print length: 64 pages
  • Dimensions: 34.0 x 23.0 cm
  • Reading age: 7 - 11 years old
  • Publication date: 10th May 2018
  • ISBN: 9780500651193

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Will The Big Book Of The Blue help my Y1 Fish class better understand the concepts covered?

Author: Yuval Zommer

The Big Book of the Blue can significantly enhance your Year 1 Fish class by providing engaging and informative content that aligns well with the curriculum. Here’s how it can support the concepts being taught:

Alignment with Curriculum Goals

  • Understanding Fish Characteristics: The book covers essential features of fish, which is crucial for Year 1 students learning to identify and name various common animals, including fish. This aligns with the curriculum objectives that require students to describe and compare the structures of different animals, including fish.
  • Life Cycles and Habitats: It likely includes information on the life cycles and habitats of fish, which are key topics in Year 1 science. Understanding these concepts helps students grasp how fish interact with their environments.

Engagement and Interaction

  • Visual Learning: The Big Book of the Blue is designed to be visually appealing, which can capture the attention of young learners. Engaging illustrations can help students better understand complex ideas about marine life.
  • Hands-On Activities: The book may suggest activities that allow students to explore fish anatomy or habitats through hands-on experiences, reinforcing their learning through practical application. This is particularly effective for young children who benefit from interactive learning.

Supplementary Learning Resources

  • Cross-Curricular Connections: It can provide opportunities for cross-curricular learning, integrating art (e.g., creating fish models) or literacy (e.g., storytelling about marine life), which can enhance overall engagement and understanding.
  • Support for Scientific Inquiry: The book encourages curiosity and questioning, essential skills in scientific inquiry. Students can learn to observe and classify different types of fish, fostering skills that are foundational in science education.

In summary, The Big Book of the Blue is a valuable resource that can help your Year 1 Fish class understand key concepts related to fish biology, habitats, and life cycles while promoting engagement through visual and interactive learning methods.

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