DREAM BIG, LITTLE SCIENTISTS: A BEDTIME BOOK, by Michelle Schaub and Alice Potter, Charlesbridge, Feb. 18, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 3-7)
Twelve budding scientists head off to bed in Dream Big, Little Scientists: A Bedtime Book, by Michelle Schaub and illustrated by Alice Potter.
“Dream big, little scientists, and close your sleepy eyes…”
The children in Dream Big, Little Scientists loves a different branch of science with each bedroom decorated to reflect their interests. Astronomy, geology, oceanography, meteorology, botany ecology physics, paleontology, anthropology, physiology and chemistry are all represented.
On its face, Dream Big, Little Scientists is fairly simple with simple lines like: Under rumpled mountain quilts, the earth is snuggled tight.” And “As motion slows and quiet grows, objects come to rest.” But the book is a bit deceiving, which is why the suggested age range from 3-7 works.
The basic text is perfect for the youngest audience members. A “Think Like a Scientist” section at the end offers more detail on each of the different disciplines for the middle age group. And for the oldest readers, a sort of treasure hunt awaits. Each spread features pictures of actual scientists that encourage further research. I would have liked to see some back matter on those real-life scientists included in the book, but it is available on Michelle Schaub’s website.
Schaub’s rhythmic text is fun to read aloud, and Alice Potter’s graphic illustrations are fun to peruse. I’d buy this one early, and allow it to grow with your child.
1 Comment
Jessica, thank you for this thoughtful review of my upcoming book! I love that you refer to the book as a “treasure hunt.” I really hope it inspires readers to dig in and learn more about each branch of science!