I admit to a penchant for interesting and informative books that inspire curiosity in young people. Fossils from Lost Worlds is such a book. At first glance it looks like a Tintin-style adventure (just with dinosaurs) but look again – there’s a tremendous depth of science, history and high adventure in this large-format picture book, taking young readers on an unforgettable journey through the fossil record.

In easy-to-understand language that’s laced with a disarming whimsy and illustrated in a lively graphic novel style, Fossils from Lost Worlds brings astounding facts and stories to life, revealing insights into the rich complexity of palaeontology and the scientific method. Piecing fossils together is like trying to solve multiple jigsaw puzzles that have been mixed together, scattered, crushed and then buried beneath solid rock – it seems almost impossible yet scientists have imagined, persisted, rethought and succeeded!

Covering a staggering amount of information, this multi-layered book is a must for anyone interested in palaeontology. And if that’s not you, it will definitely change your mind. This is a treasure trove of information the whole family can savour and enjoy for many years, and highly recommended for ages 8+.

Athina Clarke is the children’s book buyer at Readings Malvern.