Dr Gabriel Dabscheck (text) and Kim Siew (illustrator), All About The Brain, Berbay Publishing, July 2024, 40 pp., RRP $26.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781922610768
Dr. Gabriel Dabscheck’s All About the Brain offers a captivating exploration of one of the body’s most fascinating organs, making it an excellent resource for young readers aged 4 and up. This engaging picture book not only educates children about the brain but also sparks curiosity about living creatures with different brain structures, including one with eight brains!
The book is particularly valuable for students in Year 3, 4, and 5, aligning with the Australian Curriculum’s focus on the Biological Sciences strand. It introduces key concepts about the human body, including the functions of major organs and the brain’s intricate workings. Dr. Dabscheck, a paediatric neurologist, presents complex information in an accessible and compelling way, making it enjoyable for both children and adults.
All About the Brain is the second instalment in Berbay’s nonfiction series and serves as an excellent first-stop introduction to the body for curious kids. The vibrant illustrations and engaging design, along with the well-organised text, make it a visually appealing and informative read.
All About the Brain is a wonderful companion to All About the Heart, a CBCA 2024 Eve Pownall Notable book, and a valuable addition to any library. It’s an informative and entertaining read that will leave both children and adults with a greater appreciation of the brain’s incredible functions.
Reviewed by Chantelle Ciccotosto