This month we catch a whiff of something delightfully disgusting in the form of Poo: The Most Disgusting Bits of Animal Science - a brand new combined edition bringing together the very best content from two beloved non-fiction titles, Poo: A Natural History of the Unmentionable and What's Eating You? Parasites - The Inside Story, into one gloriously gross 144-page volume! This hilarious and utterly fascinating book is illustrated throughout by Neal Layton, who has won numerous awards for his own non-fiction titles, working alongside author and zoologist Nicola Davies.
"Poo might be disgusting to you, but for sloths it's what they use to say hi to their neighbours. It's how hippos find their way home in the dark. There are even thousands of different kinds of dung beetles whose favourite food is poo - which is a good thing or we'd be up to our necks in it.
For scientists, poo helps to unravel the secrets of animal life, not just now but millions of years ago (yes, there are fossil poos!). In short, poo is full of surprises. It’s not nearly as disgusting as the other things in this book, which are parasites: living things whose habitat is other living things – like you! Just wait until you read about lice in your eyelashes, the worms as long as a whale that can live in your gut, or the microbes that can make you smell like cheesy feet. You’ll find out that some diseases can be cured by a dose of worms, and how having two toes stuck together helps kangaroos fight fleas."
So, if you’re eager to learn more about how parasites use mind-control on their victims, which animals eat their own poo, and how poo can actually be useful, then this is the book for you.
Neal has been working in the illustration industry for many years, working with iconic authors such as Cressida Cowell and Michael Rosen. His infinitely recognisable illustrations with their bold line, elements of collage and bright colour palette make each of the projects he works on a delight to read and share. With a personal interest in conservation and the sciences, Neal pours his passion for knowledge into his fresh and exuberant illustrations, and his unique page layouts and information delivery make each of his books the perfect platform for communicating information to a younger audience.
Based on the south coast, Neal is an avid scribbler, either found with his sketchbook, combing the local beaches or hurtling at high speed on his long board.
If you’ve safely already eaten, now would be the perfect time to enjoy "A Tour of Poo" from Poo: The Most Disgusting Bits of Animal Science.
You can find Neal on Instagram where he shares event news, sneak-peeks, daring skateboard stunts, conservation projects and new releases. You can also view Neal’s fab online portfolio over on our website.
Poo: The Most Disgusting Bits of Animal Science publishes with Walker Books this month. You can grab a copy HERE.
For more information regarding collaborating with Neal or any of our fantastic artists please email info@arenaillustration.com or give us a call on 020 8555 9827.
