The Observologist

A highly illustrated, playful field guide for budding natural scientists and curious observers of the world right under our noses.

Observology is the study of looking. An observologist makes scientific expeditions, albeit very small ones, every day. They notice interesting details in the world around them. They are expert at finding tiny creatures, plants and fungi. They know that water snails glide upside down on the undersurface of the water; not all flies have wings; earthworms have bristles; butterflies taste with their feet. An observologist knows that there are extraordinary things to be found in even the most ordinary places.

The Observologist puts over 100 small creatures and features of the natural world under the microscope, piquing our curiosity with only the most interesting facts. Subjects range from slugs, ants and seeds, fungi and flies through to bees and bird poop.

But this is no everyday catalogue of creatures. It is an antidote to boredom, an invitation out of the digital world and screentime, an encouragement to observe our environment, with care and curiosity, wherever we are. 

Facts combine with comics, detailed illustrations, science and funny stories in this unique, warm and fascinating account of the small things all around us. Graphic and comic illustrations with funny talking insects make this a playful and informative book for 7- to 11-year-olds and one to be treasured in the classroom.

Giselle Clarkson has a comics and conservation background. Through her unique sensibility you’ll find that once you start thinking small, there’s no limit to what you can notice—right under your nose.

"A charming work sure to spark a lifelong habit of looking closely at the natural world."

-- Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"A magnum opus—Giselle has a great ability to see the world from a child’s perspective."

-- Radio New Zealand

“The ultimate boredom-buster and a wholesome antidote to the digital world…teaches young readers to embrace curiosity, show patience and care for their environment in unexpected ways.”

"A brilliant blend of factual and hilarious."

-- Centre for Literacy in Primary Education, UK

"A carefully curated museum for all ages."

-- The Sapling, New Zealand

"All-encompassing."

-- The Listener, 50 Best Kids' Books of 2023

"With lots of useful pieces of information, you can dip in and out and learn something new each time."

-- National Library of New Zealand, Best Children's Books of 2023

Giselle Clarkson is an illustrator and comic artist based in Greytown, New Zealand. Known for her non-fiction comics on conservation and environmental topics, she has illustrated a number of awardwinning books including Egg and Spoon: An Illustrated Cookbook by Alexandra Tylee and The Gobbledegook Book: A Joy Cowley Anthology. Giselle is a 2023 Arts Foundation Laureate, receiving the prestigious Mallinson Rendel Illustrators Award.

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