The Lost Words
illustrations by
on Goodreads (6,282)
What’s inside...
The Lost Words is a captivating book that explores the intricate relationship between language and the natural world. It is a collection of spell-poems and beautifully hand-painted illustrations that aim to revive the lost words and species that have disappeared from children's daily language, and thus from their understanding and experience of nature. The book celebrates the poetry of nature words and the living glory of the British countryside, capturing the irreplaceable magic of language and nature for readers of all ages. The enchanting spell-poems are written by Robert Macfarlane, a master wordsmith, and the illustrations are created by Jackie Morris, adding a visual depth to the poetry.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-8
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think would happen if we forgot the names of all these plants and animals?
How do you feel when you see pictures of the natural world in the book?
Which word or creature from the book was most fascinating to you, and why?
Can you think of a time when you encountered any of these plants or animals outside? What was it like?
How important do you think it is to remember the 'lost words' from the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, explore a local park or garden to spark interest in nature.
Encourage your child to draw or describe their favorite plant or animal from the book to deepen their connection.
Discuss your own experiences with nature when you were your child's age to create a personal connection.
Link the words in the book to their importance in the ecosystem and discuss why each plant or animal is vital.
After reading, revisit the book's illustrations to help reinforce the memory of the 'lost words'.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of nature conservation
Explanation: In 'The Lost Words', Macfarlane intricately weaves words and illustrations to spotlight the disappearing lexicon of nature, emphasizing the need to preserve and cherish our natural world.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in outdoor activities, learning about local flora and fauna, and participating in environmental conservation efforts in their community.
Example Lesson: The power of language and expression
Explanation: The book revitalizes 'lost' nature words, demonstrating how language shapes our understanding and appreciation of the world around us.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to expand their vocabulary and express themselves more effectively, both verbally and in writing, enhancing their communication skills.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: Through its poetic text and artistic illustrations, 'The Lost Words' inspires creativity and imagination, inviting readers to envision the rich imagery described.
Real-World Application: Children are motivated to engage in creative arts, such as drawing, writing, or storytelling, exploring their imagination in various forms.
Example Lesson: Observation and attention to detail
Explanation: The detailed illustrations and nuanced text in the book help foster a keen observation and attention to detail.
Real-World Application: This can help children in academic settings and daily life by enhancing their ability to notice and pay attention to detail, improving their overall cognitive skills.
Example Lesson: Respect and appreciation for diversity
Explanation: The book highlights a variety of natural elements, from flora to fauna, teaching children about the diversity in nature.
Real-World Application: This lesson translates into a broader respect and appreciation for diversity among people and cultures, promoting inclusiveness and empathy in social interactions.