The Observologist: A handbook for mounting very small scientific expeditions by Giselle Clarkson

 I hardly know where to start with this book. It includes so many of my favorite things! A focus on nature observation, miniature and detailed art, a subtle sense of humor, nonfiction, and encouragement for readers to explore the everyday world.

The insect on the cover is recreated, actual size, on the title page, which definitely sets the tone for the book. The table of contents is drawn in a delightful nature notebook style, which continues throughout the story. Clarkson starts with explaining the science of "observology" which she defines as the "study of looking." There are suggestions that will be familiar to readers and explorers, like how to observe nature, finding interest in small things, and more scientific exposition explaining how taxonomy works and an introduction to the anatomy of invertebrates.

Four areas are included for study. "A damp corner" looks at ponds, puddles, centipedes, slugs, and other things to be found in the moist and cool spots. "Pavement" takes a look at ants, lichen, and what's left behind by creatures you can't see, i.e. droppings and feces. "A weedy patch" explores the difference between bees and wasps, looks at caterpillars, and includes some light-hearted suggestions for outdoor play on a small scale. "Behind the curtains" goes inside our homes to look at spiders, cockroaches, flies, and all the creatures we share our homes with, whether we like it or not.

The book ends with a "final exam" where there are no wrong answers, a certification of observology, and a detailed index. The book originates in New Zealand and this is the American edition, but there are still a few things that may be unfamiliar to an American reader - which is no bad thing!

Every page is full of ideas, humor, and delightful little sketches of the tiny treasures of the world. The two-page spread on Collections, included in the "Pavement" section is a great example of this. A neatly drawn matchbox contains a lovely collection of little treasures, responsibly collected, and with fascinating aspects pointed out from the orderly pockets of a small wasp nest to a shed leaf and insect remains. The section ends with a warning to make sure an insect really is dead before you collect it and a beetle on its back proclaiming "I'm not dead. I'm just pretending until you leave me alone."

Verdict: For every child and family who loves the tiny things, who has the patience to watch and explore, and for teachers and parents who want to foster observation in children, this is a lovely treasure and a must-have addition to libraries, no matter where they are located.

ISBN: 9781776575190; Published February 2024 by Gecko Press; Review copy provided by publisher; Donated to the library (and added to my wishlist to gift to my friends and family!)