Bird, Bee & Bug Houses

Bird, Bee and Bug Houses is a beautifully crafted nature book, packed full of information, ideas and instructions on activities to help young readers learn about and create their own bird, bee and bug houses and contribute to supporting and conserving the natural habitats and environments of many species around us. Stunning, brightly coloured illustrations, drawings and diagrams are enchanting and engage the reader visually. They bring each species to life initially then focus in on detailing the 'how to...' sections of the book, helping the reader know how to build bee, bird and bat home and make mini ponds or meadows (the last activity being my personal favourite) Alongside clearly listed steps, displayed artistically on the pages, the book moves from a wide focus look at each species to a close up look at what we can do to create supporting environments for them; a sort of zoom out, zoom in narrative sequence, which works really well to engage the reader. The projects are all achievable (even the wooden built nests) and some require minimal planning ahead and use very common garden resources that could be scaled up or down, depending on the size of the outdoor area you have. Button books constantly produce modern looking non- fiction that creates curiosity and sparks the imagination of its young readers. This book has a gentle charm to it that complements the subject matter entirely.

-- Jennifer Caddick, teacher * Reading Zone *

An amazing read about supporting garden wildlife whilst also providing examples on how to make homes for a range of Minibeats and animals.

* @father_teacher_reader *

...it contains ideas for homes and habitats for garden wildlife. Perfect for any budding gardeners, creative kids and anyone that wants a hands on approach to wildlife gardening.

* @mini.midnight.reads *

This books is an amazing guide to creating habitats for garden wildlife. The artwork is simply enchanting, capturing the beauty of nature and the intricacies of each project. Ideal for schools, this book encourages students to get involved in conservation efforts by building their own homes for birds, bees, and bugs. The clear instructions and captivating illustrations make it easy for children to follow along and understand the importance of protecting wildlife. A fantastic addition to any school’s environmental education programme.

* @inclusive_childrens_books *

Butterflies, bats, bees, bugs, beetle, frogs… there is so much information included here about wildlife and so many practical activities to interest and engage children, getting them out and about, encouraging them to take an interest in, and show care for, the creatures in their locality. Sure to inspire, the clear, attractive illustrations which accompany each activity make the book an appealing treat! 

* Through the Bookshelf *

This book is full of fantastic ways to support nature, such as garden wildlife, in creating habitats and homes from bird boxes to bat boxes, beetle banks to mini meadows. It’s beautiful, inspiring and practical! 

* @homeplayexplore *

Little humans and their carers who may be inspired to open their own establishments would do well to get hold of a copy of this enticingly illustrated book. Therein are practical, clear instructions on how to do so, as well as a dozen or so other projects to help and encourage wild-life from birds to beetles, bats to butterflies. Some projects such as making a bird box or a bat house will need considerable adult involvement but others, a bird bath, a butterfly puddle area or a mini meadow for instance, require minimal adult intervention. Alongside the projects there are spreads with useful factual information relating to terminology and about some of the creatures likely to be encountered including owls, bats and frogs. Esther Coombs supplies clear visual support and relevant illustrations of the animals. Backmatter includes a glossary and lists some conservation websites.

-- Jill Bennett * Red Reading Hub *

With growing urbanization, it is important that we are aware of the needs that our native creatures have for somewhere to live. This book looks at the needs of three main groups, explaining what the varying needs are and how we can go about providing them in our own outside spaces; it can be in your garden, or in the school grounds. The book shows the different nests for birds, and we also learn about bug hotels and the different types of bees, from bumble bees to solitary bees. However, it also covers bats and frogs, so that the wider native ecosystem is looked at. The book says it is aimed at five years and above, but although the illustrations and the text work well here, there are elements that really need a lot of adult supervision. When building nest boxes, etc. the use of saws, hammers and drills is listed, so that must be done by an adult I think. A key stage 1 book.

* The School Librarian *

Do you have a little nature lover in your life? This fantastic new book walks readers through what a habitat is and how to support wildlife by creating bird, bug, and bee houses. It is packed with information to educate while also offering activities to help young activists and keep them engaged.

* @picturebookrecommendations *

Recommended for: all ages with adult supervision for builds. A superb practical guide to bird and insect homes with clear instructions for constructing your own safe spaces for these fascinating creatures.

* @mrsbrownsbookbox *

Here’s a book to inspire and relax. Perfect for families who like to play outdoors, or schools and nurseries with natural settings. Bird, Bee & Bug Houses #SusieBehar @esthercoombsillustration @gmcpublications is a delightfully illustrated book which guides us through how to construct different places for creatures to live, as well as inform about their preferences and needs. Pages on owls, bats and butterflies zing with life, and impart creative ideas to readers!

* @kidsbookstolife *

This book is a treasure trove of fun and educational projects that encourage readers to engage with nature and support local wildlife. From building birdhouses to creating bug hotels, each project is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for nature enthusiasts of all ages. 

* In the Playroom bl