On The Origin of Species

This was a lovely little book!

I am obviously not the intended receiver, as I am not a child, but this was a joy to read. The artwork is absolutely beautiful. I think it explained Darwin's theories well, although it was tricky to pinpoint the exact age the intended receiver should have, as the text was sometimes slightly too difficult for younger readers, I think. Then again, with the help of parents that would not be a problem. The appendix is a good addition as well, for those who want more in-depth information about certain topics such as DNA, mutarions and even comparative embryology, as well as the book addressing misconceptions (yay science!).

And again, the artwork is stunning.

What a gorgeous illustrated look into the life and work of Charles Darwin. I fell in love from the first page. What I enjoyed most of all, is that it isn’t a book that talks down to children, but challenges them.
It’s such a beautiful and homely book that should take pride of place in any library.

This is a valuable reimagining of one of the most important scientific works of all time. Beautiful illustrations bring the insights of Charles Darwin to life, different terms (such as species and genus) explained easily via the images.

The theories that Darwin had are explained as simply as they can be, but the direct quotes from his work are still rather difficult to comprehend. It's an issue with the writing style of the Victorian times - nothing that Sabina Radeva has any control over - but it made me question exactly what age group this book is aimed at.

I read it with my daughter, who loved the colours and the animal drawings (but obviously didn't understand the theories as she's only 10 months old!). Although it seems intended to be read by children in primary school, the complexities of the language mean it would also appeal to those in their early teens, so it has a widespread appeal and I certainly enjoyed it even though I'm far above the intended age group.

If you do purchase this book for your young one, make sure you direct their attention to the glossary at the back (which helps explain some of the tougher terms) and help them to understand the theories the first couple of times they read it. You'll enjoy it just as much as they do.


The only reason I've subtracted a star is because I was accepted to read this via NetGalley, so I've only seen it on a computer screen. Some of the font is very small and I struggled to read it, but it might be manageable in the finished copies - I'm planning to purchase one when it publishes at the start of February, so I'll amend my rating based off of my findings.

On the Origin of Species, Sabina Radeva's gorgeous, child-friendly take on arguably Charles Darwin's most groundbreaking work, is nothing short of a delight!

The illustrations are colourful and simply breathtaking; they complement the narrative perfectly and will no doubt have young readers asking a multitude of different questions. I would've loved a book like this when I was very young. I read the Kindle version but urge potential buyers to opt for a physical copy, of which I have pre-ordered for my bookshelf based on how stunning it is to look at, as I feel it would be nothing short of a travesty to not have the beauty of it on show. It fully deserves all five stars; I would award it more if I could.

Many thanks to Puffin Books for an ARC.

I originally noticed Charles Darwin's 'On the Origin of Species' as retold and beautifully illustrated by Sabina Radeva when it came onto Kickstarter a couple of years ago and was intrigued.

This takes the theory of evolution as set out by Charles Darwin and simplifies it, to a certain extent, to make it accessible to younger readers.

The illustrations throughout are rich and lead the eye through to the text, making the journey of discovery easier.

Sabina covers the core of the text of the original in a concise and unpatronising manner, with nice touches of humour (often aimed at the simplistic counterarguments to evolution) the whole is very readable and unfortunately it was over way too soon.

A great primer for children of all ages and a lovely gift book to cherish.

I received a copy of this through NetGalley for an honest review.

A beautiful introduction to Charles Darwin's Origin of Species, especially written for younger readers. I would probably recommend this book to Key Stage 2 children (7-11years) who are interested in science and biology. With detailed pictures and quotes from Darwin himself, children can be given an introduction to evolution that is not too daunting or overwhelming. For younger children, there is the challenge of searching the illustrated insects from the end papers throughout the book.
Despite some complicated ideas being introduced, the book is rounded off with a summary of 6 points about evolution and Darwin's theory and a useful glossary of terms.

Evolution and adaptation is not an easy to topic to get your head around but Sabina Radeva has created a wonderful illustrated text which makes Darwin's On The Origin of Species accessible for a young audience.
It includes quotations from the original text as well as simplified explanations of how animals have adapted for purpose and evolved. The illustrations include beautiful realistic depictions of a range of creatures.