Book Review: Plantastic! A to Z of Australian Plants
Book Review by Glenn Leiper
‘Plantastic! A to Z of Australian Plants’ by Catherine Clowes & Rachel Gyan
Back in my former life as a teacher, I was always on the lookout for the latest books about environmental education with an emphasis on activities for students that were hands on and engaging. The Gould League was always at the forefront of innovation in this field and is still pushing back the boundaries of ignorance admirably.
However, there was always a shortage of good books and ideas about Australian flora, and ‘Plantastic!’ I’m pleased to say offers a focus for teachers and students on our native plants.
Its simple format of alphabetical organisation of 26 plants, such as A for Acacia, B for Banksia and C for Christmas Bush, provides an interesting and informative focus about each of these plants, either a genus such as Banksia or a particular species such as F for Fan Palm (Licuala ramsayi). Knowing what young children are interested in, the authors have presented plenty of ‘fun facts’ for each plant that hook the reader, such as “plants whose seeds are spread in poo” or “plants that move when you touch them” or “plants that eat insects.”
The promotional information for the book advertises a “perfect balance of fun facts, activities, adventurous ideas and gorgeous illustrations” and I agree. As a teacher I would have grabbed this book with great glee and anticipation of the classroom and
outdoor activities I could develop. For each species of plant, the book offers activities designed to interest and engage the learner, and as we all know, that’s paramount in successful teaching, as well as initiating and promoting life-long learning and a deep interest in our environment and our wonderful native plants. I could imagine a child quickly developing a keen interest in exploring their garden’s plants and even the local bushland’s plants.
While some of the plants are only found in particular areas of Australia, such as Wollemi Pine, the activities can still be interesting and engaging, and any creative teacher can apply the ideas to other similar local species with a bit of research.
To support the book, the authors have developed a set of teachers’ notes, that include teaching strategies, curriculum links and key learning outcomes. While these are not comprehensive, it’s a great start and will trigger a lot of other brainstorming ideas for an interested teacher. The book also includes a map of where to find each plant featured, plus a glossary to help explain the botanical terminology.
I certainly recommend this book to teachers of primary school students, and also to parents of young children. Any book that has two whole pages on one of my favourite plants, Zieria, has to be a good one! Now for a similar book on Plectranthus!
Book Review Published: Journal June 2021