In our often busy lives it’s easy to overlook the wonders of nature and take our natural environment for granted. From the birds’ morning song to a pearl magically appearing in an oyster, Slow Down helps readers do exactly that with many discoveries along the way. Fifty nature stories focus on showing how; A Duck: Teaches her Ducklings to Swim, A Rainbow Appears, A Snake Sheds its Skin, Dew Collects on a Leaf and more.
Each spread features a different story with text and detailed pictures in a step-by-step layout. I like how the text explains complex processes in a simple and succinct way for young readers to understand.
There is a lot to love about this book but the standout for me is the stunning artwork by Freya Hartas, her illustrations have a delicate, whimsical textbook feel, the colours, use of light and details such as the anatomy of a mosquito are spectacular.
Slow Down would make a great classroom addition or gift, its sturdy cover features beautifully balanced illustration, flowing typography and gold foil and surrounds over 100 high quality pages of fascinating information. An index, further reading list and bibliography are also included.
Other books by Rachel Williams include Illuminature and Atlas of Animal Adventures. Freya Hartas has illustrated many books including The Dragon With A Chocolate Heart and Frankie Frog and the Throaty Croakers.
Title: Slow Down
Author: Rachel Williams
Illustrator: Freya Hartas
Publisher: Magic Cat Publishing, $24.99
Publication Date: 1 April 2020
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781916180512
For ages: 5 – 8
Type: Picture Book
