University of Cambridge: Think Big: The Speed of Light

Illustrator Wenjia Tang has certainly done a brilliant job, making an abstract concept - the theory of relativity - come alive on each page. The illustrations in Think Big: The Speed of Light - from eye-catching endpapers to portraits of Einstein to pictures of warp drives and the bending of time - really do convey a sense of speed, drawing the reader into this scintillating topic.

Who knew that a ball being tossed upwards in a seated passengers' hand appears to be bouncing along the length of the train carriage, when viewed from outside? Who could explain why the pitch of a fire engine’s siren sounds different on approach and when receding? Clearly Simon Chapman is skilled at explaining complex scientific ideas with beautiful simplicity.

I particularly enjoyed learning about how it might, one day, be possible to board a non-stopping high-speed train, and the inclusion of some fun facts. For example, Einstein's now preserved brain is slightly smaller than average, even though his legacy is still expanding. Perhaps some readers of this book will be inspired to explore their own scientific dreams. The cut-out cover alone invites further exploration.

Although the theory of relativity is not on the Primary curriculum, any teacher of KS2 Science would, I think, gladly dip into this hardback when covering gravity, or forces and motion. Besides, it would be a valuable addition to any library's STEM collection, as well as being a great example of a non-fiction text, featuring an index and glossary, pagination, headings and sub-headings and a clear font style. Highly recommended.

32 pages / Reviewed by Jane Rew, school librarian

Suggested Reading Age 9+

Following Secrets of Bees, this is the second book in this series which explores big ideas, inspiring curiosity and encouraging enquiring minds. Written in a lively, accessible style, the book opens by introducing the ideas of Albert Einstein and a succinct timeline of his life. His 'big' ideas are then clearly explained, using illustrations and examples to support understanding and posing questions to challenge thinking.

Sections labelled 'Think Like Einstein' offer real life examples and parallels to aid comprehension. Colourful illustrations fill every page and the text is presented in concise, carefully explained sections, breaking down complex topics to make them more easily understood.

There is plenty here to engage young science lovers with a comprehensive glossary at the end of the book to clarify the 'technical' terms used. Perfect for enriching the curriculum and developing an interest in science and scientists!

32 pages / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 7+

This lusciously illustrated book about Einstein and his theory of relativity gives an absorbing introduction to some of the most mind-bending - and influential - ideas in physics. Each spread begins with a big, challenging question like, 'How can speed change the sounds we hear?' or 'What colour are the stars?'

Readers of Think Big: The Speed of Light are encouraged to think like Einstein as the author describes the daydreams - or 'thought experiments' - that led him to his surprising and pioneering conclusions. Abstract ideas (ones that I find difficult to grasp) are broken down and explained using analogies and examples from everyday life. I was impressed by how clearly the author communicates concepts that challenge our perceptions and expose the limitations of our senses.

The text in Think Big: The Speed of Light is accessible – suitable for children from nine years and older - but not at all patronising. This book also touches on some of the ways that Einstein's ideas have been used to revolutionise technology and our understanding of the universe. Sections on warp drives and time travel are sure to fascinate young readers. The author clearly intends them to be spurred on to use their own creative curiosity and do their own 'thought experiments'.

The final words of the book belong to Einstein but seem to sum up the philosophy behind the book: 'Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.' That's a philosophy that makes this a must for the school library science section and also a fine pick for book corners in upper Key Stage 2 classrooms.

32 pages / Reviewed by Louisa Farrow, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 9+