Of course, we all need enough sleep ( the reasons are explained in the book! ) so each answer is written as a short, self-contained bedtime story, subtly weaving in scientific research . Writing non-fiction for young audiences is a process of careful curation. What stays in, what gets left out? Which concepts need extra scaffolding? Which analogies will help children make an emotional connection? Which metaphors might cause misconceptions? My answers don’t come from comparing as many texts as possible, but from knowing and understanding my audience. Recommended by Nature Ecology & Evolution!“The Bedtime Book of Impossible Questions is filled with interesting questions and engaging, science-based answers. There is plenty to appeal to curiosity about the physical and biological world and author Isabel Thomas takes every opportunity to introduce fundamental scientific concepts in an accessible way for readers over the age of 7.” With bright, bold illustrations by Aaron Cushley, Isabel Thomas’ The Bedtime Book of Impossible Questions explores a huge range of scientific topics in an engaging way that’s sure to satisfy committed young thinkers. Moreover, it’s also set to inspire 7+ year-olds who’ve yet to be sparked by the magic of science and nature.

Top-notch nonfiction from a profoundly accomplished author, it's the sort of book that could ignite lifelong scientific curiosity." Guardian Pippa added, "Ireally want to read The Bedtime book of impossible questions because it makes me think about what I can achieve, and hopefully become an author and write my own book."Olivia loved the webinar and said. ‘’I enjoyed listening to the impossible questions and also listening to how she answered them.’’ With more than 200 published titles, there is a book in my repertoire to delight every child, from the lyrical and atmospheric picture books Moth: An Evolution Story and Fox: A Circle of Life Story, to the quirky Bedtime Book of Impossible Questions. Older children and teenagers will love Exploring the Elements and Full of Life, and for young conservationists and eco-activitists, I've created This Book is Not Rubbish and This Book Will (Help) Cool the Climate. ChatGPT is impressive, and it’s just getting started. It’s essential that writers and publishers understand how readers and learners are embracing AI software, and how this might develop.David Almond introduces his new picture book, A Way to the Stars, a story about perseverance and finding a way to make dreams come true. ChatGPT handled my straightforward science questions with impressive ease. At first, it feels like a GPS for navigating the Internet sprawl – avoiding the pile up of search engine results on your way the information you need. It’s easy to see why it has already been incorporated into science and maths tutoring systems, and can even pass some of the world’s toughest exams.

I also run an online, low-cost course for writers, illustrators, teachers and scientists who would like to turn a great idea into a non-fiction book proposal. Find out more here. It can already do certain things faster than books can – such as helping a child identify an insect they have spotted. But carefully curated books about science and nature have the power to connect with children in a way that AI can’t; to encourage them to notice the insect, appreciate its beauty and mystery and yearn to discover its name.Learn why silly questions lead to the BEST science (and non-fiction writing) in a brand-new workshop based on bestselling The Bedtime Book of Impossible Questions. If you are using Moth or Fox as part of your curriculum, this is the workshop for you! Students will learn how I go about researching and writing a lyrical non-fiction book, meet some real-life moth caterpillars with superpowers, and craft their own science-based art or poetry. Author Anna Kemp introduces The Hollow Hills, the sequel to her dark magical tale, Into Goblyn Wood. We cannot thank you enough for a thoroughly inspirational afternoon! You were amazing! The children gone home raving about liquid cats and dogs swimming in ice-cream! Thank you so much!" The questions continue to flow at home. A 2017 study revealed that the average four-year-old ask s 73 questions a day . And the average parent knows that t he most wonderful – and hardest to answer – are always saved for bedtime!

Aaron Cushley’s extraordinary illustrations add extra surreal detail and capture the infinite reach of a child’s imagination .

About the contributors

Why are bubbles always round? Could I ever touch a rainbow? Why can't I remember being a baby? Have you ever not been able to concentrate because there are SO many questions buzzing round your brain? The Bedtime Book of Impossible Questions will offer answers to the most bamboozling questions and curious queries that you can think of. How many stars are in the night sky? Why don't animals wear clothes? Do plants have feelings?

Recommended by Children’s Books Ireland on Today with Claire Byrne!“This book is absolutely mind-blowing, and I would have loved it as a child.” Why am I me and not someone else ? Why can’t I stay up as late as you ? Why do I like my friends more than other people? Why won’t I live forever? I just wanted to to say, thank you again for taking time out of your day to talk to us. The kids absolutely loved it and certainly felt inspired to hear how you became a writer (one of our SEND boys created his own book right away about space after hearing you talk). We were also impressed by your knowledge about science with all our silly science questions." The Nottinghill Carnival takes central stage in this story about families, memories and the power of dance and festivals. Author Yaba Badoe tells... Pupils enjoyed a VIP visit from author Ms Isabel Thomas, on World Book Day, who ran inspirational workshops and activities with the girls. Pre-prep pupils were captivated with story-telling.”

Help Isabel explore answers with interactive challenges and bring your most bamboozling brainteasers for a chance to star in her next book. An event for everyone who won’t take ‘I don’t know’ for an answer. We had the opportunity to ask Isabel some 'impossible' science questions ourselves, such as 'Why are bubbles round?'. We really enjoyed our morning learning about being an author and a scientist too!'