This is a Handbook for Mounting Very Small Scientific Expeditions. That means, setting out to find hidden creatures in places not previously thought of, and learning how to identify them.
Boring is a word often repeated by children. But it is one that can be silenced simply by looking down to discover a fascinating, alive world at one’s feet.
Observology encourages children to explore the natural world through short excursions to find not only what is above
and around them, but also what can be uncovered beneath their feet.The rules of this boredom- buster are interesting. Searches need preparation and patience. The imperative instruments are a magnifying glass, camera, flashlight and small mirror.
A Damp Corner, Pavement, Behind the Curtains, and A Weedy Patch are four places where the most amazing things lay hidden, ready to be discovered on each of the small scientific excursions.
Over 100 small creatures, plants and animals are explored. The book can be opened to any of the sections for a detailed description of the presented image plus countless facts about them.
The scientific name of each entry is in Greek or Latin, and the very funny at times pronunciation of them, can be a challenging experience.
Parts of insects, vertebrates and arachnids are also displayed fully labelled.
Ideal for children with inquiring minds, The Observologist puts forward ways to differentiate insects from molluscs and clarifies that an insect breathes through holes in its body called spiracles, while butterflies have taste receptors on their feet. All grey areas are made clear.
The contents address nocturnal creatures found in damp places, such as slugs and snails of various types, when they circulate, how to spot spiders spinning webs, and moths and crickets.
Children may want to keep a book to record or draw what they see, to identify and name it, or even follow the stages of the growth of plants.
Children will come away with an impressive list of new words and their meanings, increased knowledge of the natural world, and understanding the importance of knowing the names of individual insects casually included under a single umbrella name.
The most amazing facts are huddled here, and complementing them are the outstanding illustrations by the author that bring each creature to life. This a valuable encyclopaedic publication worth having.
Title: The Observologist
Author/Illustrator: Giselle Clarkson
Publisher: Gecko Press, $37.99
Publication Date: 1 October 2025
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781776575190
For ages: 7+
Type: Junior Non Fiction
