D'Aulaires' Book of Animals (New York Review Books (Hardcover))
The New York Review children's collection Series
on Goodreads (91)
What’s inside...
D'Aulaires' Book of Animals, created by Ingri and Edgar Parin d'Aulaire, is a visually stunning volume crafted for their son, Ola. The book introduces young children to animals from every continent with over fifty creatures illustrated in vibrant, full-color lithographs. It is uniquely designed to be read page by page or unfolded to display a continuous panorama of the animals' habitats. The reverse side presents the nocturnal world of the same animals. Each scene is depicted in the animals’ native environments, from tropical to arctic, showcasing the d'Aulaires' rich color use and delightful understanding of children's perspectives. The text is simple and engaging, offering insights into the animals’ behaviors, habitats, and sounds. This book is an ideal picture book for preschoolers and a work of art that can be appreciated by all ages.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-10
Length
30 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What animal did you find most interesting in this book and why?
How do the animals in the book differ from the ones we see around us?
Can you think of a story where one of these animals could be the main character?
If you could be any animal from this book, which one would you choose and what would your day look like?
Which animal's habitat would you like to visit and what do you think you would see there?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you explore 'D'Aulaires' Book of Animals' with your child, draw parallels between the illustrated animals and real-life examples to make the experience more relatable. Show enthusiasm and curiosity about each animal, which encourages your child to express their thoughts and feelings. Use the illustrations as a springboard to discuss broader topics such as animal behavior, conservation, and biodiversity. Encourage your child to imagine stories or scenarios involving the animals, which enhances creative thinking. Lastly, visit a zoo or nature reserve, if possible, to see some similar animals in real life, adding a tangible element to the learning experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: Through engaging illustrations and captivating tales of various animals, the book fosters a sense of awe and respect towards the natural world.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of caring for the environment and can practice respect by not littering, recycling, and helping in community green spaces.
Example Lesson: Diversity and Acceptance
Explanation: The book showcases a wide range of animals from different habitats and regions, highlighting the diversity in the animal kingdom.
Real-World Application: This lesson promotes acceptance of differences among people they meet, understanding that, like animals, human diversity is natural and valuable.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The detailed accounts of animal behavior and characteristics can spark curiosity in young minds, encouraging them to learn more about biology and the world around them.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to read more books, explore nature, or participate in science-related activities to further their knowledge and satisfy their curiosity.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards Animals
Explanation: The portrayal of animals in varied scenarios allows children to see life from the perspective of different creatures.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to be more empathetic towards animals, understanding their needs and feelings, and possibly inspire responsible pet ownership or advocacy for wildlife.
Example Lesson: Importance of Storytelling
Explanation: The narrative form of the book underscores the value of storytelling in sharing knowledge and morals.
Real-World Application: Children can develop their storytelling skills, which aids in their cognitive development and enhances their ability to communicate effectively.