Studying

Nature

Nature study is probably the most important subject in the Islands school curriculum, not only because it helps the child to understand his environment better but because it is the basis of all good agricultural practice.

One of the best books on the sub ject and called just that— Nature Study —has recently been republished by Whitcombe and Tombs Ltd., hav ing first appeared four years ago for the NZ Department of Island Terri tories. Author is R. R. V. Blanc.

The book was prepared for teachers in the Eastern Pacific Islands where New Zealand has traditionally had a hand in education and, in lessons describing the various plants, fish, animals and birds that the Pacific Island child will encounter, local names (Samoa, Fiji, Cook Islands or Niue) are given. But although written specifically for this area, it should be of equal value in the Western Pacific where coastal village environ ment doesn't differ all that much from Fiji/Polynesia.

As well as being a valuable book for the teacher it should find a place on every island bookshelf. It con tains a wealth of material that is familiar to the European resident of the Islands—but for the very reason that it is familiar, is often unknown.

There are over 100 black and white photographs, drawings and diagrams. (NATURE STUDY. Published by Whitcombe & Tombs Ltd.; New Zealand.

Price 30/-.)