Darwin’s Super-Pooping Worm Spectacular

[AD] Darwin’s Super-Pooping Worm Spectacular  Polly Owen   Gwen Milward

Have you ever wondered why worms wriggle to the surface in wet weather? (Aside: today is actually perfect worm spotting weather here!)

Did you know that Charles Darwin was fascinated by the study of worms? He was certain they had superpowers and dedicated much of his life to finding them; along the way learning so much about these incredible invertebrates.  

I’ve been waiting a month to share this brilliant new picture book from Polly Owen and Gwen Milward, published this week by @wideeyededitions. It’s an incredible ‘faction’ book (narrative non-fiction), merging the story of Charles Darwin’s worm research with fascinating facts, scientific terms and quotes from Darwin’s notes; all delivered by a delightfully preppy, academic worm in a bow tie and mortarboard. There’s also some wonderful wormy facts in the back matter too, with ways you can find out more – which you’ll definitely want to after reading this book!!!

I had no idea worms were so fascinating. Through a series of experiments - some very simple - Darwin found out worms were blind and deaf but that their skin could detect light and sound. Not amazing enough…? After years of research he found out the spectacular properties of ‘worm poo’ as a rich natural fertiliser for plants. I also learnt that through the movement of soil, worm poo has actually altered the landscape too!!!

The beautiful language - ‘His mind fizzed with questions’ – gives you a sense of Darwin the man and the story shows the value of curiosity and also is a model of resilience – 40 years of research with people doubting you along the way!

This book would be an incredible addition to any classroom collection. Not only is it told in a humorous way but contains so many links across the curriculum.

Check out the Planning Prompts section of the website for a free resource.