Leaf litter

by Rachel Tonkin. HarperCollins, 2006.

This is one of the best illustrated children’s books I have ever seen. But although Leaf Litter is a children’s book, adults should take the time to examine its wonders too. Rachel Tonkin illustrates a small patch of ground beneath a tree, and shows the changes that occur among the leaf litter over a year. Plants and animals co-exist, each with their part to play. Minute eggs hatch out. Insects forage among the dead leaves, ready to eat or be eaten. There are flaps to be lifted, to give a sort of 3-D effect – see what takes place inside the ants’ nest. At the end of the book there are lists of things to find in each double-page spread, and this is when you will need your wits about you and your strongest magnifying glass. Tonkin is a scrupulous illustrator, and must have laboured for many hours in the creation of this book. Her message is that without leaf litter there is nothing to stop the rain from washing the soil away, there is nothing for creatures to eat. It looks like debris but is vital for the environment’s future.

- John

Best of Booker goes to Rushdie

Midnight's Children by Salman Rushdie has won the 'Best of Booker' award. The book originally won the Booker prize in 1981 and was selected as one of the six finalists for the Best of Booker. Over 7800 people from around the world voted online and via SMS and gave Midnight's Children 36% of the vote. To view availability and place your hold on this title (or others by Rushdie) please visit our online catalogue.

The science of fiction

The New Scientist 28th June issue reports on the mental benefits of reading fiction. Keith Oatley, a professor emeritus of cognitive psychology, has conducted research which shows that people who read more fiction may find it easier to discern the thoughts and feelings expressed by people's eyes. He likens fiction to a simulation that runs on the software of our minds, and may help us when negotiating the complexities of social life.