Nature-themed books for primary and secondary schools (KS1–KS4)
Page-turners for your pupils to enjoy
Books are windows into other worlds. With the right book in hand, each child can be inspired and transported to enjoy the power of a good story.
To celebrate World Book Day, the RHS Librarians have selected their favourite books to encourage a love of reading. Many of these books offer something a little different, and all use plants and nature within their themes and settings.
Key Stage 1
Super Happy Magic Forest: The Super Slug of Doom
By Matty Long
Published by Oxford University Press | 2016 | 32pp | Paperback | RRP £7.99 | ISBN 9780192742988
Picture book
Follow these magical heroes on their quest to save the day from evil Zorgoth, the super slug of doom! The detailed illustrations and silly tone will capture even the most reluctant readers of this brilliantly goofy book.
Key Stage 2
Ivy and Bearlock Homes: The Case of the Missing Flower
By Kristyna Litten
Published by Magic Cat Publishing | 2025 | 80pp | Hardback | RRP £9.99 | ISBN 9781917044929
Comic book / puzzle book
Help Ivy and her grandpa, detective Bearlock Homes, uncover who has stolen the agave flower from the botanic garden. Children will enjoy the interactive puzzles within the story and marvel at the many sights of Bearona City that they see along the way.
Key Stage 3
Explodapedia: Rewild
By Ben Martynoga
Published by David Fickling Books | 2024 | 160pp | Paperback | RRP £7.99 | ISBN 9781788452779
Non-fiction illustrated guide
The Explodapedia series reimagines non-fiction for younger readers, and Rewild reads like an exciting and illustrated adventure! Discover why we need rewilding to ensure the future is great for everyone, from tomorrow’s humans to the animals within our ecosystems.
Key Stage 4
This Poison Heart
By Kalynn Bayron
Published by Bloomsbury Publishing | 2021 | 373pp | Paperback | RRP £8.99 | ISBN 9781526632791
Young adult fiction / fantasy
Briseis has a secret botanical gift with plants. But when she unexpectedly inherits her birth family’s estate, her gift is tested to the limit. Older pupils will enjoy the twists in this award winning story as Bri navigates her new role to protect this ancient gift from threats.
