Read the latest book reviews of Minipreneur’s favourite non-fiction children’s books published by the imprints of Quarto this season. Words & Pictures offers accessible, engaging titles for curious children and fans of fact-led or pop culture books. Wide Eyed Editions combines extraordinary illustration, expert text, and tactile design to inspire wonder in the whole family. Happy Yak brings laughter and fun with playful, colourful novelty and fact-packed books. Parents can trust Quarto Kids to provide thoughtfully designed, engaging books that entertain, educate, and inspire children across all ages and interests.
BUST OR TRUST: A Kids’ Mystery Book
Created by inventive Small Wardour and illustrated by witty Sam Peet, Bust or Trust: A Kids’ Mystery Book turns children into detectives with a magnifying glass in hand. Perfect for young readers aged 8+, this interactive title explores 10 real-life mysteries, from Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster to the disappearance of Amelia Earhart and the legend of King Arthur. Each case invites readers to examine evidence, weigh arguments, and decide for themselves what to believe, blending silly jokes with critical thinking challenges. Parents will enjoy encouraging reasoning skills and debate, and children will delight in solving thrilling, bizarre mysteries with friends and family. £14.99 published by Words & Pictures.
Dig!
Written by knowledgeable archaeologist Ruth Hatfield and illustrated by charming Sophia Watts, Dig! offers a captivating introduction to archaeology. Perfect for readers aged 6–8, it explores ancient civilizations, from the Vikings to early humans, through detail-rich illustrations and clear explanations of how archaeologists uncover the past. Children discover extraordinary finds, from Greek palaces to ancient head lice, and gain insight into scientific methods while enjoying engaging storytelling. Parents will appreciate the curriculum-friendly depth and STEM focus, and children will revel in uncovering secrets of the past while imagining themselves as budding archaeologists. £14.99 published by Wide Eyed Editions.
Poo
Written by acclaimed natural history author Ben Hoare and illustrated by talented Jennifer N. R. Smith, Poo: A (Very) Natural History and a Powerful Future is a fascinating and witty exploration of human and animal waste. Perfect for curious young readers aged 8+, this book delves into the science, history, and environmental importance of poo, from feeding and camouflage to energy generation and space applications. Parents will value its educational insights and myth-busting approach, and children will be captivated by the humorous, vibrant illustrations and surprising facts that make learning fun. £16.99 published by Wide Eyed Editions.
Farting Fish
Written by clever author Alice Harman and illustrated by inventive Sam Wedelich, Farting Fish introduces readers to 50 of the funniest and quirkiest Ig Nobel Prize-winning discoveries. Suitable for ages 7+, this fully illustrated non-fiction book blends humour with science, exploring everything from smelly feet to whale snot. Each entry features ratings and bite-sized facts designed to entertain while stimulating curiosity. Parents will enjoy sharing laughter and learning alongside their children, and children will be fascinated by the bizarre, thought-provoking science presented in a highly accessible way. £14.99 published by Happy Yak.
Oh No They Didn’t: Trailblazers
Written by engaging author Eric Huang and illustrated by playful Sam Caldwell, Oh No They Didn’t: Trailblazers is a humorous myth-busting guide to extraordinary innovators throughout history and today. Suitable for ages 7+, it highlights lesser-known facts about figures from all walks of life, from inventors to activists, combining fun storytelling with vibrant illustrations. Parents will enjoy introducing children to global role models, and children will be inspired by the surprising, entertaining stories that challenge conventional history lessons. £8.99 published by Words & Pictures.
Oh No They Aren’t: Science
Written by witty author Eric Huang and illustrated by humorous Sam Caldwell, Oh No They Aren’t: Science is a myth-busting exploration of chemistry, geology, technology, and more. Perfect for readers aged 7+, it presents scientific misconceptions in a fresh, engaging way with entertaining illustrations and clear explanations. Parents will value its educational depth and curriculum alignment, and children will be intrigued by the quirky, surprising insights that make learning science genuinely fun. £8.99 published by Words & Pictures.
