It Started with a Big Bang - by Floor Bal (Hardcover)

About the Book

"This humorous informational picture book about the history of the universe answers some of the biggest questions humans have ever asked - like how the universe began and where we came from. Young readers will learn all about the Big Bang theory, how our solar system and planet were formed, how life began in the oceans and moved to land, what happened to the dinosaurs and how humans evolved from apes to explore, build communities all over the world...and eventually even travel to space."--

Book Synopsis

In this accessible informational picture book, young readers can follow the fascinating story of how we got from the very beginning of the universe to life today on the "bright blue ball floating in space" called Earth. They'll learn about the big bang theory, how our solar system was formed, how life on Earth began in the oceans and moved to land, what happened to the dinosaurs and how humans evolved from apes to explore and build communities all over the planet ... and even travel to space. It's an out-of-this-world look at the beginning of everything!

Science journalist Floor Bal and award-winning illustrator Sebastiaan Van Doninck have combined their talents to create a captivating, kid-friendly introduction to the history of the universe and life on Earth. The spirited narrative and vibrant illustrations make millions of years of history entertaining, and give this book read-aloud appeal. It has direct STEAM curriculum applications for grades one to three in life science, particularly for topics such as the characteristics of living things, how living things adapt to their environments and extinction, as well as earth science and space science. It also could spark deeper conversations with children as it answers some of the biggest questions humans have ever asked --- such as how the universe began and where we all came from.

Review Quotes

... a fine introduction to a complex topic ...--School Library Journal

... friendly and concise ...--Publishers Weekly

... the text and illustrations are well-integrated to facilitate comprehension and stimulate curiosity.--CM Magazine

A simple, effective introduction to some big ideas for curious young readers.--Kirkus Reviews

About the Author

Floor Bal is an award-winning science journalist. She is based in the Netherlands.

Sebastiaan Van Doninck is an award-winning illustrator from Belgium. His clients include Penguin Random House, Thames & Hudson and Usborne Publishing. He is the illustrator of several picture books and the winner of Belgium's 2015 Picturale Prize for the best Flemish illustrator.