cover image Really, Really Big Questions

Really, Really Big Questions

Stephen Law, , illus. by Nishant Choksi. . Kingfisher, $16.99 (62pp) ISBN 978-0-7534-6309-3

This thought-provoking book poses challenging questions, using a conversational tone and illustrations reminiscent of vintage cartoons. Law, a philosophy professor, navigates controversial issues encouraging exploration and debate. In a section that asks “Where do living things come from?” he describes a Greek creation story and then the one from the Bible, remarking, “These stories from different times, places, and religions are certainly strange and wonderful. But are any of them true ?” For certain ethical dilemmas, he gives more definitive responses (“Is it true that we care only about our own happiness? No”). The biggest philosophical quandaries naturally lead to more questions—which will frustrate some and invigorate others. Ages 9–12. (Oct.)