Amazing Animal Journeys follows the migration of a set of animals around the world, starting with a world map and plenty of arrows to give kids immediate perspective. Even for older children and adults, these journey revelations are fascinating.
Explaining firstly why animals migrate, we're then treated to the many and varied ways they do so, some travelling enormous distances, others relatively short distances. Some travel in massive packs, others in very small groups.
We are then shown certain animals in greater detail, from the blue whale through jellyfish and turtles, to wildebeests, bats and even butterflies. Illustrated children personalise these journeys along the way, with tots interacting or observing these animals, bringing an almost narrative feel to the text.
This book has been cleverly done to appeal to a much younger audience; children as young as 4 or 5 could easily enjoy its content, especially in terms of layout and imagery. Older children will also enjoy the added text detail.
There is a lovely warmth and serenity to this book that will charm readers of all ages. The addendum pages feature added information on the featured creatures, making it an ideal book for educational environments, as well as the home.
It's also a book that will have readers champing at the bit to get outdoors.
Now excuse me, I'm off to spot some migratory birds!
Title: Amazing Animal Journeys
Author: Chris Packham
Illustrator: Jason Cockcroft
Publisher: Red Shed, $19.99 RRP
Publication Date: 1 February 2016
Format: Hard cover
ISBN: 9781405277457
For ages: 4 - 10
Type: Picture Book, Non-Fiction