The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Peculiar Pairs in Nature
#2 in The Illustrated Encyclopaedia Series
on Goodreads (32)
What’s inside...
SHORTLISTED CBCA BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2022 - EVE POWNALL AWARD. Discover 60 of the most peculiar pairs in nature in this eye-opening guide to natural relationships by Sami Bayly. Learn how different species rely on each other for survival, from symbiotic to parasitic relationships. This beautifully illustrated hardcover book explores the unlikely partnerships formed between animals and plants, showcasing how essential these interactions are for their survival. Come along for another fresh take on the animal kingdom from bestselling author and illustrator, Sami Bayly. Discover 60 of the most peculiar pairs in nature and learn how plant and animal species rely on each other for their survival. Whether it be a rare tick living in the fur of a pygmy possum, a stick insect feasting and hiding out amongst the Melaleuca or a handfish laying its eggs on a sea tulip, incredible natural relationships deserve to be explored and celebrated. Investigating all types of relationships, from symbiotic to parasitic, this is an eye-opening guide to the natural world. Many species steer clear of those who are different, but the animals and plants in this book have evolved to form relationships with some of the most unlikely partners, and they couldn't live without them. This gorgeous hardcover book is illustrated in exquisite detail by award-winning author and illustrator, Sami Bayly. The perfect companion to The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Ugly Animals and The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Dangerous Animals.
Discussion points
What do you think makes these pairs in nature so peculiar?
How do you think these creatures depend on each other to survive?
Can you imagine what would happen if one part of the pair was missing?
Why do you think nature has created such unique partnerships?
How can humans learn from these peculiar pairs in nature?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin by asking your child what they know about symbiosis and partnerships in nature, setting a foundation for new information.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the relationships in the book and human relationships, fostering deeper understanding and empathy.
Utilize the illustrations in the book to help your child visualize each peculiar pair, aiding their comprehension and engagement.
After reading, encourage your child to come up with a 'peculiar pair' of their own imagination, making the reading experience interactive and creative.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciating biodiversity
Explanation: The book showcases a wide variety of animal pairs that thrive in nature, highlighting their unique behaviors and characteristics.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value the diversity of living beings in their environment, fostering a respect for nature and its conservation.
Example Lesson: Understanding symbiotic relationships
Explanation: Illustrations and descriptions explain how different species cooperate for survival, demonstrating mutualistic and commensal relationships.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this understanding to human relationships, appreciating the importance of cooperation and mutual benefits in their interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Encouraging scientific curiosity
Explanation: Each peculiar pair is presented with engaging facts and details that spark curiosity about the natural world.
Real-World Application: This book can motivate children to explore science further, be it through school projects, visiting natural history museums, or exploring nature themselves.
Example Lesson: Promoting detailed observation
Explanation: The detailed illustrations encourage readers to pay close attention to the nuances of each species.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to observe their surroundings more keenly, enhancing their attention to detail in every aspect of life.
Example Lesson: Learning the importance of ecological balance
Explanation: The book explores how these pairs help maintain their ecosystems, teaching about the delicate balance in nature.
Real-World Application: This lesson guides children to understand the impact of their actions on the environment and promotes responsible behavior towards preserving ecological harmony.