Written by: Dr. Dominic Walliman & Ben Newman
Illustrated by: Ben Newman
For ages: Elementary students and above
Language: English
Topics Covered: STEM
Summary: This book covers everything from what it means to be a human and brain function to the different systems of the body. In the bright graphic style that is typical of the Professor Astro Cat series. There are tons of illustrations that help explain these advanced scientific concepts of different accessibility options for disabled peoples well as body systems. The lymphatic and endocrine systems as well as the senses and skin, everything is covered! With adult help, this book could be used for younger children, although the reproductive systems are covered, although not graphic. We say this only because depending on the circumstances, some may not be interested in discussing the ins and outs of human genitalia within a classroom. The last few pages talk about future science and breakthroughs that are on the horizon!
We love the Professor Astro Cat series! The cartoon style and bright colors will engage any age of reader, which is a great way to introduce STEM concepts at a young age.
About the Author & the Illustrator:
Dominic Walliman is a physicist, and award-winning science writer. He is co-creator of the Professor Astro Cat science books with illustrator Ben Newman.
Dominic received his PhD in quantum device physics from the University of Birmingham, and currently works at the quantum computing company D-Wave Systems Inc. As well as writing, he enjoys making films and animations to explain science and has produced a series of online videos communicating D-Wave’s groundbreaking quantum technology and his own videos about general science.
He has been writing science books since 2011, and he aims to give children super fun and clear explanations of science through the adventures of Professor Astro Cat. He grew up reading science books and remembers vividly the excitement of discovering the mind boggling explanations that science gives us about the Universe. If he can pass on this wonder and enjoyment to the next generation, he will consider it a job well done.
Ben Newman has developed a distinct aesthetic over the years; a contemporary fusion of bold shapes, bright colours and playful characters which has been described as ‘bauhaus fuzzy felt.’ He has produced work for a large range of clients, including the Tate Modern, New York Times, BBC Radio 4, Google and The New Yorker. His practice extends outside of commercial work into worldwide exhibitions, paintings and three dimensional collaborations. Nowadays, he spends the majority of his time collaborating on the Professor Astro Cat children’s books with his longtime friend and scientist, Dr Dominic Walliman, which are published by Flying Eye Books and have been translated into 18 other languages.
Concurrent to working as a freelance illustrator, Newman lectures on illustration at various universities and conferences in the UK and Europe.