University of Cambridge: Teeny Tiny Science: I See a Cloud: A book about the water cycle

By Author / Illustrator
Saskia Gwinn, illus Daniela Sosa
Genre
Environment & Nature
Age range(s)
3+
Publisher
Nosy Crow
ISBN
9781805133247
Format
Hardback
Published
08-05-2025
Synopsis
A fun, friendly and lyrical picture book series about cycles and systems for the very young.
I see a cloud, high up in the sky, made of tiny water drops sparkling with dust . . . From the tiniest raindrop to the deepest ocean, join two children and their dog on a fantastic journey through the water cycle. As they splash in puddles, float on clouds and dive into the sea, young readers will discover how water moves through our world in an incredible, ever-changing cycle.
With a storybook format and stunning illustrations, this book will entertain, inspire and gently educate 3-5-year-olds. The perfect introduction to the water cycle, I See a Cloud has been created in consultation with Dr Lucinda Spokes from the University of Cambridge. With beautiful, lyrical text by Saskia Gwinn and breathtaking, collage-style artwork by Daniela Sosa.
Introducing young children to STEM topics with the Teeny Tiny Science series
Reviews
Jessica
I absolutely ADORE this book! Teeny Tiny Science: I See a Cloud is a book about the water cycle. It explains the water cycle in such a clear way that even the littlest of children can understand. This book has taught my toddler about the water cycle and she can now clearly explain it to others.
The book begins with a cloud which we learn is made of tiny water drops. We discover that these tiny water drops came from the sea and, as the sea warmed up, they floated up to the sky. This clear explanation continues throughout the book until we end up right back where we started.
The fun illustrations make this scientific process even more accessible for children. For example, we see a dog and some children taking a ride on the rain drops as they burst their way out of the clouds. My daughter's favourite page is of the rainbow appearing as the sun shines on the raindrops. She had fun using this page with its labels to learn all the colours of the rainbow.
For me, the most poignant messages in this book are those which tell us why water is so important (for crops and animals etc.) It reinforces why it is so essential that we look after our oceans. This book has so much to offer!
Picture book / Reviewed by Jessica Bunney, teacher
Suggested Reading Age 3+
Amanda
Teeny Tiny Science: I See a Cloud is the answer to every child's question of 'Why does it rain?'. Cleverly written using simple sentences with a limited vocabulary, the story can be fully understood by young children. Beautifully drawn and coloured illustrations add to children's understanding and enjoyment of the book.
The addition of humour through the illustrations will add lots of giggles throughout. Children will love to imagine what it would be like to ride on a raindrop!
Picture book / Reviewed by Amanda Shipton
Suggested Reading Age 3+