An observologist is someone who makes scientific expeditions, albeit very small ones, every day. They notice the tiny details in life and are experts at finding creatures, plants and fungi. They know there are extraordinary things to be found in the most ordinary of places.
This is a stunning hardcover "handbook for mounting very small scientific expeditions" from award-winning illustrator Giselle Clarkson. Clarkson puts more than 100 small creatures and features of the natural world under the microscope.
However, this is no ordinary catalogue of creatures. It's an invitation to explore, to discover, to think outside the box and view our world with care and curiosity.
Clarkson begins the book by prepping budding observers. She runs through scientific names, taxonomy, anatomy and how boring situations can be improved by observology. Her delightful illustrations, simple language and fun jokes help spark curiosity.
She then takes readers to four different, yet incredibly standard, environments - a damp corner, the pavement, a weedy patch, and behind the curtains - that are all perfect places to mount an observological expedition.
What makes it especially awesome is how accessible it is. There's no fancy equipment or wayward places readers have to travel to to be an observologist. Clarkson breaks down tricky topics in a fun and easy way. From surface tension to camouflage, beehive humidity to chuggiepigs, it's a treasure chest of information. This book is packed full of interesting facts and fascinating diagrams. Open the book at random and no matter what page it falls to, you will be captivated by it.
The directory of droppings and how to birdwatch without birds were a particular delight, as were some of the more unusual creatures lurking within the pages, Philippines fried egg worm anyone?
A playful, beautifully illustrated book that is big on curiosity, The Observologist is an absolute delight for readers of every age.
Reviewer: Rebekah Lyell
Gecko Press