Lonely Planet
The Weather Book

The Weather Book

The Weather Book is a dynamic and informative children's non-fiction title from Lonely Planet Kids, designed to ignite curiosity about the world’s weather. Perfectly pitched for young readers, the book guides them through a whirlwind journey of meteorological exploration, from the basics of sunshine and rain to the awe-inspiring drama of blizzards, hurricanes, and even natural disasters. Bursting with vibrant illustrations and stunning photographs, The Weather Book makes scientific concepts both visually compelling and accessible to children aged 7 and up.

Throughout the book, complex ideas such as atmospheric pressure, the water cycle, and how weather forecasting works are explained in clear, age-appropriate language. Each topic is supported by colourful diagrams, real-life case studies, and interesting tidbits that bring weather science to life. The inclusion of profiles on extreme weather events from around the world adds a global perspective, helping pupils understand how weather affects communities across continents and why understanding these phenomena is so important.

One of the standout features of The Weather Book is its emphasis on interactive, hands-on learning. The pages are filled with practical activities and experiments that encourage children to become scientists in their own right-whether they’re building a simple barometer, creating a homemade rain gauge, or charting the local weather. These activities not only reinforce key concepts but also promote observation, problem-solving, and independent enquiry, making the science of weather memorable and fun.

Hands-On Learning in KS2 Geography Lessons

Incorporating hands-on activities into KS2 geography lessons is a proven way to engage students and deepen their understanding of weather. By participating in outdoor observations, experiments, and group projects, children develop key scientific and geographical skills. For example, students might monitor daily weather conditions, map local microclimates, or investigate how weather impacts local habitats and human activity. These practical approaches help connect classroom learning to the real world, fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong interest in the environment.

About the Author

The Weather Book (Lonely Planet Kids) was written by DK Publishing, a team of experienced writers and editors specializing in educational content for children. Lonely Planet Kids works with subject experts, illustrators, and educators to create books that make learning about the world exciting and accessible for children.

The Weather Book is ideal for children aged 6–9 and is perfect for school projects, family reading, or sparking a lifelong interest in science and nature.

Book Details:

  • Publisher: Lonely Planet Kids
  • Format: Hardcover
  • Print length: 184 pages
  • Dimensions: 24 x 2 x 31.3 cm
  • Reading age: 9-12 years old
  • Publication date: 21 Oct. 2022
  • ISBN: 978-1838695293

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The Weather Book (Lonely Planet Kids): Further Information & KS2 Weather Learning

About the Weather

Follow-on Questions for Discussion or Research

  • What are the main differences between weather and climate?
  • How do clouds form, and why are there different types of clouds?
  • What causes extreme weather events like hurricanes or tornadoes?
  • How does the water cycle work, and why is it important for weather?
  • What tools do meteorologists use to predict the weather?
  • How does weather affect people’s daily lives and the environment?
  • Why do different parts of the world have different weather patterns?
  • What can we do to stay safe during severe weather events?
  • How might climate change impact the weather in the future?

Key Stage 2 (KS2) Weather Learning Links

The Weather Book (Lonely Planet Kids) is well-suited for KS2 (Key Stage 2) learners in the UK. It supports the following National Curriculum topics:

  • Geography:
    • Weather patterns in the UK and around the world
    • Physical geography: climate zones, biomes, and vegetation belts
  • Science:
    • States of matter (solid/liquid/gas and the water cycle)
    • Earth and space (how seasons and weather are connected to the Sun and Earth's movement)
  • Practical Skills:
    • Making and using simple weather-measuring equipment (e.g., rain gauges, wind vanes, barometers)
    • Conducting experiments (e.g., cloud in a jar, measuring rainfall)
    • Recording and presenting data (creating a simple weather report)

Interesting Facts from The Weather Book

  • The highest temperature ever recorded on Earth was 56.7°C (134°F) in Furnace Creek, California, USA.
  • Lightning can heat the air around it to five times hotter than the surface of the sun!
  • Snowflakes always have six sides, but no two are ever exactly the same.
  • Some animals, like frogs or birds, can sense changes in weather before humans can.

Suggested Activities for KS2 Learners

  • Create a weather diary for one week: Record temperature, rainfall, wind, and cloud cover each day.
  • Make a simple anemometer or rain gauge using household materials.
  • Research a recent extreme weather event and present how people responded to it.
  • Draw and label the water cycle, explaining each stage in your own words.

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