Discover the fascinating world of animal migration with these fabulous books. From the incredible journeys of the grey whale to the shorter, yet equally impressive journeys of the red crab, migrations never cease to amaze. Informative, visually appealing and compelling, readers of all ages are sure to learn something new from these books. Whether it is finding out about the migration of an unfamiliar species or learning some of the incredible ways in which animals navigate, prepare to be inspired.
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Amazing Animal Journeys
by Chris Packham (Author), Jason Cockcroft (Illustrator)
Review: Beautifully illustrated, Amazing Animal Journeys is a perfect introduction to animal migration for young readers. Written in child-friendly language, the book starts by explaining what migration is. Chris Packham, the author, points out that migrations do not necessarily have to involve large distances. The book then proceeds to highlight a variety of animals and their migrations overland, in the air or water. Featured animals include well-known species such as wildebeest, leatherback turtles and monarch butterflies, as well as lesser-known species such as golden jellyfish. A “Discover More” section at the end provides additional tidbits of information about each animal included. A lovely introduction.
Watch below to see a flick-through of the book.
Suggested Reading Age: 4 years and up.
Migration: Incredible Animal Journeys
by Mike Unwin (Author), Jenni Desmond (Illustrator)
Review: This appealing book engagingly presents the migratory habits of a wide range of creatures. The author directly addresses the reader as each animal is introduced, helping them better understand the animal or its journey. Stunning illustrations further elevate the text and are a joy to look at in their own right. A world map at the end of the book plots the migrations of all the animals discussed. An accompanying paragraph considers how human activity and actions are impacting animal migrations. This makes for thoughtful reading and a great conversation starter. This would make a super addition to any library.
Watch below to see a flick-through of the book.
Suggested Reading Age: 5 – 8 years old. A lot of text accompanies the illustrations in this book. In my opinion, this makes it more suitable as a read-aloud for the younger end of the age bracket, and a book that older readers can enjoy by themselves.
Epic Animal Migrations
by Camilla De La Bédoyère
Review: Epic Animal Migrations features 12 animal migrations over 32 pages. Each migration is addressed over a double-page spread. The information is presented using a mixture of photographs, fonts, font sizes, eye-catching headlines and short, punchy pieces of text. The spreads feature a map showing the migration route and a colourful timeline that allows readers to understand where on the journey the animal is and when. Inset boxes entitled“ Migration Mystery” highlight aspects of migration that continue to puzzle scientists. This is a super book to dip into that is not text-heavy and presents the information in a fun, accessible way. The inclusion of zooplankton makes a nice addition to more commonly addressed migrations.
Suggested Reading Age: 9 – 11 years old.
The Big Picture Animal Migrations
by Jon Richards
Review: In a similar vein to Epic Animal Migrations featured above, The Big Picture Animal Migrations presents some of the most familiar migration journeys in a visually accessible manner. Beautiful illustrations coupled with eye-catching graphics hold readers’ attention throughout. Each migration has a dedicated double-page spread. Additional facts about the animals in question further extend readers’ knowledge. The European eel, army ants and plankton all feature. The Big Picture Animal Migrations provides an enjoyable starting point when exploring this topic.
Suggested Reading Age: 9 – 11 years old. In my opinion, this would also be accessible for slightly younger readers, too.
Supernavigators: Exploring The Wonders Of How Animals Find Their Way
By David Barrie
Review: If you have ever wondered how animals undertake their amazing migratory journeys each year, wonder no more. Supernavigators provides a highly readable insight into the mysteries of animal migration. Countless examples of animal navigation, including humans, dung beetles and red ants, are provided along with many that scientists have yet to fully understand or explain, such as crocodile and elephant navigation. Supernavigators works equally well read in one go or dipped in and out of. Please note that this book is also sold under the title Incredible Journeys. Well worth the read.
Suggested Reading Age: Older teens and adults.
Happy Reading!
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If YOU know any great books about animal migration please leave a recommendation below .