Nature Explained: A Family Guide to 20 Nature Cycles

2026 National Science Teaching Association Outstanding Science Trade Books List

Uncover fascinating stories about nature's cycles with this nature book for kids aged 5-7.

In Nature Explained, art and science blend together in a fascinating visual tour of more than 20 nature cycles. Discover how trees lose their leaves, what makes flowers bloom, why seeds travel, and many more incredible processes.

Split into six sections-trees, leaves, flowers, seeds, mushrooms, and seasons-the book's spreads present different scenes and explain the stories of nature from pollination to photosynthesis, germination to decomposition, in a simple way.

Anatomical profiles feature at the start of each section to give a broad overview to each chapter, and feature detailed diagrams and dissections for children to pore over.

Helen Brown is an author and editor based in London. She studied English literature at the University of Sussex before moving into children’s books. She now spends her time researching and writing about all kinds of topics for children—from ancient worlds to magical woodlands. Her books have been translated into over 15 languages. When she’s not at her desk, you can usually find her running with her dog on Hampstead Heath or volunteering with Literacy Pirates aboard a real-life pirate ship. Claire Scully is a multidisciplinary professional illustrator and educator based in London. Her exquisite pen-and-ink illustrations featured in one of 2015’s top coloring releases, The Menagerie. This is her first full-color book for children.