How to Do (Almost) Everything

An encyclopedia of expertise, showing how to do everything from making paper aeroplanes to solving a riddle.

With this book by their side, every curious child will gain a dazzling range of skills for real-life adventures, from practical skills (such as how to read a map and how to tie knots), to craft activities (such as how to make slime and how to make papier-maché), to outdoorsy skills (such as how to star spot without a telescope and how to build a den), to brainy skills (such as how to solve a Rubik’s cube and how to calculate Pi), to life skills (such as how to give a compliment and how to pack a suitcase) – and much more!

Every skill comes with the seal of approval from top experts, and their stellar tips are threaded throughout the book, too. For example, an aircraft designer offers tips on making the ultimate paper plane; a lunar scientist points out what to spot on the Moon; a chemical engineer shares insights about making slime; and an eight-times world memory champion reveals how to remember (almost) anything.

Lavishly illustrated with step-by-step diagrams, exuberant illustrations and stunning photography, this book offers the skills every child needs to make the most out of every day.

About the Author

Becky Baines is a writer, fact fanatic and editorial egghead who has written books on everything from sloths to sharks, and from dinosaurs to Dolly Parton. She was the former Editorial Director at National Geographic Kids, and also co-created and hosted the award-winning kids' radio program, the Weird But True Show. Becky lives in Arlington, Virginia, USA.

Laurie Avon is an illustrator and printmaker based in Brighton. His work blends graphic clarity with playful character and humour. He has created artwork for picture books on subjects ranging from ancient Rome to animal homes, as well as illustrations for clients such as The National Theatre, BBC History and Penguin Random House.