Slow Down & Be Here Now
Stories to Make You Stop, Look and Be Amazed

Slow Down and Be Here Now

"Slow Down and Be Here Now: More Nature Stories to Make You Stop, Look and Be Amazed by the Tiniest Things" by Laura Brand is a beautifully illustrated book that encourages readers to appreciate the small wonders of nature. The book is designed for young readers aged 3 and up and includes 20 nature stories that are told step-by-step, allowing readers to see nature up close and find joy in the present moment.

The book features charming text combined with real scientific insights, inviting readers to observe events such as a hummingbird drinking nectar, a pea shoot emerging, or a family of hermit crabs moving house. These stories are visually enhanced with colourful illustrations and a sumptuous gold foil cover, making it an attractive addition to any child's library.

In addition to the stories, the book includes mindfulness activities and further reading suggestions, encouraging children and their caregivers to engage more deeply with the natural world. The book has been well-received, being shortlisted for the Week Junior Book Awards 2023 and praised for its ability to inspire a love of nature.

Author: Laura Brand

Laura emphasizes the importance of slowing down and letting nature guide creativity, advocating for the benefits of fresh air and imaginative play in nature.

Book Details:

  • Publisher: Magic Cat Publishing
  • Format: Paperback
  • Print length: 64 pages
  • Dimensions: 24 x 0.7 x 30 cm
  • Reading age: 6+ years old
  • Publication date: 29 Sept. 2022
  • ISBN: 978-1913520656

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A bit more about Laura Brand and her work

Author: Laura Brand

Laura Brand is an author and illustrator known for her work that combines creativity and nature. She is the creator of "The Joy Journal for Magical Everyday Play," where she shares crafty experiments and creative ideas for everyday play. Laura is also the author of "Slow Down and Be Here Now: More Nature Stories to Make You Stop, Look and Be Amazed by the Tiniest Things," which encourages mindfulness and discovering nature in everyday life.

She lives in the countryside with her family, which includes her husband, two daughters, and various pets. Her home is described as a place where chaos and calm coexist, filled with creative activities like play dough and hand-painted banners. Laura has led workshops for both children and adults at events such as Fearne Cotton's Happy Place Festival.

Laura Brand incorporates mindfulness into her nature stories by encouraging readers to slow down and appreciate the small, often overlooked details in the natural world. In her book "Slow Down and Be Here Now," she presents nature stories that highlight everyday natural events, such as how dandelion clocks spread their seeds or how a hummingbird collects nectar. These stories are designed to enchant and ground children, helping them to notice and appreciate the tiny moments of magic in their surroundings.

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