Each turn of the page transports you across the globe to a different forest. From a German evergreen forest to an Alaskan boreal forest (and everything in between), you’ll discover just how different forests can be and learn about the different animals that call each forest home.
Each animal is accompanied by their name and a lovely snippet of information that conveys interesting facts about them. They’re also numbered, because on each page you’ll find a ‘press here’ circle, that, when pressed, plays the sounds of each of the animals listed in order.
The sounds run into each other, providing a realistic soundtrack of life in each forest. It’s also lots of fun to pick out the sounds as you listen and figure out which sound belongs to which animal.
Unlike many sound effect books, the pages are paper and not thick card. You simply press down on the page where indicated, and it triggers a button at the back of the book, which turns on the sound. I did find some younger children had a little bit of trouble making the sounds work at first, but after a bit of practice, they were experts.
And did I mention the stunning illustrations? Robert Hunter’s beautiful illustrations are detailed and colourful, extending to the edge of every page so you feel as if you are stepping inside the forests. The book is an absolute delight to explore and super engaging for kids.
If you know youngsters who love animals and the wilds of our world, or if you’re looking for an interesting and engaging non-fiction book for the classroom, World of Forests ticks all the boxes.
Title: World of Forests
Author/Illustrator: Robert Hunter
Publisher: Quarto, $27.99
Publication Date: February 2019
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781786033277
For ages: 4+
Type: Picture Book, Non-Fiction
