Our World Full of Wonder (Jevita Nilson, illus Jess Racklyeft, CSIRO Publishing)

Our World Full of Wonder is a parent’s and educator’s dream, combining teachable moments written in Jevita Nilson’s heartfelt lyrical prose with charming illustrations from CBCA award-winning illustrator Jess Racklyeft (To Stir With Love, Tree). This enchanting picture book opens with two astronauts observing Earth from space before exploring 12 natural wonders of the world, from sparkling seas and towering trees to valleys, lakes and waterfalls. While Nilson includes a useful ‘tour of our wonderful world’ glossary and a map of the world listing these wonders, the book does not name the places throughout, instead telling us: ‘There is a place’. This technique effectively piques the reader’s interest, and coupled with the evocative illustrations, encourages them to ask: ‘Shall we go explore?’ ‘Are those waterfalls the Iguazú Falls?’ ‘Where can you find those fairy floss-pink lakes?’ Racklyeft’s artwork is the main strength of this book; it’s warm, dreamy and varied, and the mix of inks, watercolours and overlapping shapes is atmospheric and creates an almost collage-like effect. Recommended for ages 5+, Our World Full of Wonder is the best kind of educational book, because the combination of gentle prose and engaging illustrations invites young readers to look and learn.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Michelle Atkins is a communications professional and author. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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