Mary-Rose Grieve is a librarian in an international school in Dubai. She is co-chair of the Great School Libraries campaign () and sits on the CILIP SLG National Committee. She was UAE School Librarian of the Year in 2019. She also finds it very hard to choose three books to recommend!
Top Texts for October 2023
Mary-Rose Grieve has selected a delightful choice of explorative texts this month.
One of a Kind
by Neil Packer
Surely this is every librarian’s favourite book? One of a Kind: A Story about Sorting and Classifying is a richly illustrated large book written by Neil Packer for Walker Studio which ignites the reader’s curiosity, promotes critical thinking and provides many opportunities for discussion, talk and inquiry. The Illustrations are evocative, detailed and astonishingly gorgeous – this is a book which has been crafted and designed to make it a real object of beauty. But it is the potential for discussion and deep thought which elevates it even further; a seemingly simple story is given meaning by the illustrations and the Author’s Notes at the end of the book. A must for every bookshelf!
The Language of the Universe
by Colin Stuart, illustrated by Ximo Abadia
The Language of the Universe: A Visual Exploration of Mathematics by Colin Stuart and Ximo Abadia is another large and beautifully designed book which will keep young (and not so young) readers entertained and enthralled for hours. There are some complex and difficult concepts explained and depicted within its pages but in such a way that the reader never feels talked down to. There is just enough information in both the text and illustration to pique the interest of budding mathematicians and start them thinking about real world applications of the maths they are learning in school. There are another two books in this trilogy about Chemistry and Physics which are also highly recommended.
A Life Electric
by Azadeh Westergaard, illustrated by Julia Sarda
A Life Electric: The Story of Nikola Tesla by Azadeh Westergaard, illustrated by the wonderful Julia Sarda is the perfect picturebook biography: a well written, rich and engaging story, illustrated by one of the best illustrators working today, full of interesting facts and anecdotes about the man who invented the AC induction motor. Sarda’s unique, slightly surreal style and muted colour palette paint a picture of this extraordinary, curious man which will appeal to young, curious readers. The bit I love most is the excellent, detailed Author’s Note and Sources at the back which are a brilliant introduction to research and independent inquiry.
