posted on 16 Dec 2019

Maverick Early Readers: An Alien’s Guide non- fiction series

If you browse our website you will see that we are big fans of all books produced by Maverick Arts Publishing. It is a well- established reputable company that clearly put a lot of thought into offering unusual, aesthetically pleasing picture books carefully designed to engage younger readers.

Learning to read independently is a tricky business and I have already reviewed some enticing examples from it’s relatively new reading scheme that is’ banded for guided reading to the industry standard and edited by a leading educational consultant’ HERE and HERE.  My five year old grand- daughter, who is currently being introduced to the strange and wonderful world of phonics at school, has found these to be invaluable in helping her to recognise simple words and sentences. I am convinced that is because each one is pleasingly illustrated along with simple and repetitive text, but they are never dull, despite their basic plots and few pages.

This is the first time that I have seen examples from the higher bands that aim to introduce readers to some fascinating non-fiction subjects. The intriguing premise is that each is told from the perspective of two alien tour guides, Finn and Zeek,  who are carrying out research about Planet Earth, to share with fellow aliens who have particular interest before planning a holiday to the unfamiliar planet. I know from experience that this approach works as it provides the chance to insert a friendly comment here and there which breaks down the density of information.

‘City Animals’ is one from the Turquoise Band and answers a query from Tik and Tok from Planet Sit-ee who want to know how they can see animals whilst visiting cities. The guide explains why some animals have come to live in built up areas with associated pros and cons for their survival and well- being.  The interesting facts from around the world are supplemented with colourful photos interspersed with cartoon comments from the tour guides. I liked the double page showing the Chacma Baboons causing havoc in Cape Town, South Africa.

After giving a quick but varied overview of other animals and cities, they provide a neat summary with a recommended highlight – just like real tour guides. The book concludes with a multiple choice quiz which allows the reader to check that they have understood and remembered the new information, as well as a useful glossary and map of the globe to locate where these cities can be found.

‘Food for Thought’ is one from the Purple Band which is a little more challenging but equally well designed and interesting. Om and Nom from Planet Bobble are very concerned that they might be badly affected by the food that they might find on their holidays, so are keen for some detailed guidance.  The familiar format means that a reader would easily be able to work through the different pages, perhaps with some guidance at first. Again – there is the opportunity to self- test vocabulary and knowledge with a quiz at the end.

The final two examples are from the White Band which is highest level in the series. The subjects of ‘Going Green’ and ‘Our Place in Space’ are more complex and the level and density of text has increased accordingly. However, this never at the expense of many carefully selected photographic illustrations which reinforce and add to the written information. This is an excellent series of books each one of which is  jam packed with facts to provide a sound basis for further reading. Strongly recommended to encourage an interest in non- fiction.

Karen Argent

December 2019