By Pond and River

Step into the hidden world of streams, ponds, and wetlands with this enchanting nature classic. By Pond and River invites young readers to slow down, look closely, and rediscover the wonder right outside their door. With the curiosity of a naturalist and the warmth of a beloved teacher, Arabella Buckley transforms ordinary creatures—frogs, dragonflies, fish, snails, water beetles, and more—into captivating subjects of discovery.

Through vivid storytelling and gentle scientific instruction, readers learn:

• How tadpoles grow and change

• Why dragonflies skim the water like living jewels

• What secrets lie beneath still ponds and flowing streams

• How plants and animals depend on each other in delicate ecosystems

Buckley’s writing nurtures both observation and imagination, making science feel alive, accessible, and joyful. Perfect for nature study, homeschooling, and family read-alouds, this charming book inspires children to explore the outdoors with fresh eyes and a grateful heart.

A delightful blend of natural history and storytelling, By Pond and River continues to spark curiosity in young readers more than a century after it was first written.

Arabella B. Buckley (1840-1929), also known as Mrs. Fisher, was a writer and science educator. She was born in Brighton, England. At 24 she went to work as secretary to Charles Lyell, and worked for him until his death in 1875. Then she began lecturing and writing on science. She married at the age of 44, but continued publishing under her maiden name. Her books include The Fairy-Land of Science (1879), Life and Her Children (1880), Winners in Life's Race (1883), Insect Life (1901), By Pond and River (1901), Birds of the Air (1901), Wild Life in Woods and Fields (1901), Trees and Shrubs (1901) and Plant Life in Field and Garden (1901).