Everything Under the Sun: a curious question for every day of the year
2021
by
illustrations by
on Goodreads (51)
What’s inside...
A delightful collection of 366 curious questions asked by children, based on the award-winning podcast by Molly Oldfield. This book provides answers to intriguing questions like how much bamboo a giant panda eats, the existence of aliens, and why hammerhead sharks have unusual heads. It features insights from experts, including an award-winning illustrator, a Michelin star chef, and specialists from the Natural History Museum. Accompanied by beautiful illustrations, this book is a perfect gift for sparking curiosity and sharing knowledge all year round.
Age
4-10
Length
256 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was the most interesting question in the book you wanted to learn more about, and why?
If you could ask the sun any question, what would it be?
How do you think the answers to these questions help us understand the world better?
Which question made you think differently about things you see every day?
Can you think of a new question that wasn't in the book? What is it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them how they would search for answers to their own questions. Validate their curiosity by showing genuine interest in the topics they find fascinating. Use the daily questions as a starting point for deeper exploration on related subjects. Make connections between the book's questions and your child’s everyday experiences to make learning more relevant and exciting. Lastly, consider using additional resources like children's encyclopedias or educational websites to explore answers together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and the joy of learning
Explanation: The book draws on a diverse set of facts for every day, encouraging kids to explore and inquire about the world around them.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to ask questions and seek out answers in their daily experiences, promoting a lifelong love for learning.
Example Lesson: Understanding time and seasons
Explanation: Each question is tied to a specific day of the year, teaching children about the flow of seasons and the concept of time.
Real-World Application: Kids can relate the content to specific times of the year, enhancing their understanding of calendars and the importance of time management.
Example Lesson: Diversity in nature and culture
Explanation: The book covers a wide range of topics from natural phenomena to cultural practices around the world, showcasing diversity.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate and respect different cultures and the natural world in their interactions at school and in the community.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking
Explanation: The questions provoke thought and often do not have straightforward answers, engaging children’s analytical skills.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think critically and evaluate information, a skill that is useful in academic settings and in making everyday decisions.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Some questions address emotions and human behaviors, helping children to understand and empathize with others.
Real-World Application: This fosters emotional intelligence and better interpersonal relationships both at home and with peers.