Kew: Darwin and Hooker: A story of friendship, curiosity and discovery that changed the world

By Author / Illustrator

Alexandra Stewart, Joe Todd-Stanton

Genre

Biographies & Autobiographies

Age range(s)

Publisher

Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

ISBN

9781526613998

Format

Hardback

Published

15-09-2022

Synopsis

On 24th November 1859, Charles Darwin's On the Origin of Species was first published, selling out almost immediately. Describing the now well-known theory that humans evolved through a process called natural selection, it became an instant classic and cemented Darwin as one of the greatest biologists of all time. However, he couldn't have done it without the support, encouragement and advice from those who believed in him. None more so than Joseph Hooker, his friend, confidant and fellow collector, who supported and helped Darwin when he didn't dare ask anyone else. Hooker, too, had his own adventures and made his own discoveries - many of which not only aided Darwin, but went on to change what the world knew about plants. Becoming head of Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, he came to be one the world's most influential botanists.

Across many years, countless adventures and numerous letters, this captivating and wonderfully illustrated book tells the story of one of greatest friendships to happen to science. Publishing in partnership with Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, this book will show children how teamwork, curiosity, openness and trust can be the greatest tools a scientist will ever need. They might even help you change the world.

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Reviews

Darwin and Hooker is no ordinary story book, it reveals the development of a friendship as well as the mind of one of our greatest biologists. With explanations of journeys to far shores to develop theories and giving presentations to the scientific communities in academia, this book details the path of new scientific knowledge becoming accepted knowledge.

Friends Darwin and Hooker help each other along the way - giving the reader an insight into the benefits of someone having your back. The A4 format of this book is super to share with a group of children, and the high quality text challenges children's thinking and expands their vocabulary. I loved the fact that my favourite illustrator worked on this book. I was not disappointed!

A super book to share with upper key stage 2 children for their science topic, but also a revelation in true friendship for PSHE work. Highly recommended for every school library.

80 pages / Reviewed by Sharon Porter, teacher