How & Why Stories

By Martha Hamilton

Discover why nature's wonders look and act as they do through enchanting global tales.

4.1/5 Goodreads · 38 ratings

96 pages· 19,202 words· Est. 2.5 hour read

$18.95Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Explore the mysteries of nature with captivating stories from around the world. Uncover why tigers have stripes or why the sea is salty. Each tale offers a glimpse into cultural lore, paired with scientific insights and storytelling tips. Perfect for curious minds and budding storytellers, this collection invites readers to journey through enchanting explanations and vibrant illustrations, sparking wonder and understanding of the natural world.

From the publisher

Winner of NAPPA Gold Award &amp; Parents’ Choice Award Did you ever look carefully at a spider’s web? If their purpose is simply to catch flies, why do spiders weave such beautiful, intricate webs? Did you ever wonder what causes thunder? Why is the sea salty? How did tigers get their stripes? In this collection of delightful tales from around the world and through the ages, each story explains why an animal, plant, or natural object looks or acts the way it does. Following each story are tips for telling–especially written for children, but suitable for any age–that include suggestions for timing, intonation, gestures, and body language. There are also short modern, scientific explanations for each story subject and a map showing in what area of the world each story originated. Designed for use in primary and middle grades, this book is perfect for children to read on their own as well as those who want to learn to tell stories. It’s also a wonderful resource for adults who tell stories to children, and for teachers to use in conjunction with science, language arts, or social studies curricula.

At a glance