📖 Overview
Nick Arnold is a British author primarily known for writing science books for children. His most successful work is the "Horrible Science" series, illustrated by Tony De Saulles, which has become a cornerstone of children's science education literature.
Initially trained in history, Arnold began his career in London as a science book editor. His entry into children's literature came through a teaching project at the University of North London, which led to his first published works.
The launch of "Horrible Science" began with two books: "Ugly Bugs" and "Blood, Bones and Body Bits." The series' success established Arnold as a prominent figure in children's science writing, and he has since published numerous titles under both his own name and the pseudonym Robert Roland.
Arnold has demonstrated notable commitment to science education through his work, continuing to write and perform educational shows despite once breaking his arm during a "Horrible Science" presentation. In 2004, he became the first British author to conduct a literary tour in China.
👀 Reviews
Readers celebrate Arnold's ability to make science engaging and entertaining for children, particularly through his Horrible Science series. Reviews note his use of humor, cartoons, and casual language helps make complex topics accessible.
Parents and teachers praise how the books spark curiosity, with one Amazon reviewer noting "My reluctant reader now devours these books." Goodreads reviews highlight Arnold's talent for sneaking educational content into fun narratives.
Some readers find the humor occasionally forced or distracting. A few parents mention the gross-out elements can be too intense for sensitive children.
Ratings across platforms:
Goodreads: Average 4.2/5 across series
Amazon: 4.5/5 average
- Deadly Diseases: 4.6/5
- Shocking Electricity: 4.7/5
- Chemical Chaos: 4.4/5
Common themes in reviews include:
- Makes science fun and memorable
- Effective mix of facts and humor
- Clear explanations of complex topics
- Illustrations enhance understanding
📚 Books by Nick Arnold
Ugly Bugs - A scientific exploration of insects and small creatures, examining their physical features, behaviors, and roles in nature.
Blood, Bones and Body Bits - A detailed look at human anatomy, covering the skeletal system, blood circulation, and bodily functions.
Chemical Chaos - An examination of chemistry fundamentals, including elements, reactions, and laboratory experiments.
Frightening Light - An exploration of light physics, covering topics from basic reflection to complex wave theory.
Killer Energy - A comprehensive look at different forms of energy, their transformations, and applications in the natural world.
Nasty Nature - An investigation of ecosystems, food chains, and animal adaptations in the natural environment.
Microscopic Monsters - A study of microorganisms, bacteria, and viruses, examining their impact on human health.
Fatal Forces - An explanation of physics principles including gravity, motion, and fundamental forces.
Shocking Electricity - A detailed examination of electrical principles, circuits, and electromagnetic phenomena.
Space, Stars and Slimy Aliens - An exploration of astronomy, covering planets, stars, and theories about extraterrestrial life.
Vicious Veg - A botanical investigation of plants, their defense mechanisms, and survival strategies.
Painful Poisons - A scientific look at toxic substances, their effects, and their roles in nature and medicine.
Blood, Bones and Body Bits - A detailed look at human anatomy, covering the skeletal system, blood circulation, and bodily functions.
Chemical Chaos - An examination of chemistry fundamentals, including elements, reactions, and laboratory experiments.
Frightening Light - An exploration of light physics, covering topics from basic reflection to complex wave theory.
Killer Energy - A comprehensive look at different forms of energy, their transformations, and applications in the natural world.
Nasty Nature - An investigation of ecosystems, food chains, and animal adaptations in the natural environment.
Microscopic Monsters - A study of microorganisms, bacteria, and viruses, examining their impact on human health.
Fatal Forces - An explanation of physics principles including gravity, motion, and fundamental forces.
Shocking Electricity - A detailed examination of electrical principles, circuits, and electromagnetic phenomena.
Space, Stars and Slimy Aliens - An exploration of astronomy, covering planets, stars, and theories about extraterrestrial life.
Vicious Veg - A botanical investigation of plants, their defense mechanisms, and survival strategies.
Painful Poisons - A scientific look at toxic substances, their effects, and their roles in nature and medicine.
👥 Similar authors
Terry Deary writes the "Horrible Histories" series which shares the same format and humorous approach as Arnold's work. He combines historical facts with entertainment to make learning accessible for young readers.
Anita Ganeri authors the "Horrible Geography" series and other educational books that explain complex topics through engaging narratives. She uses the same mix of facts and illustrations to break down scientific concepts for children.
Glenn Murphy produces science books for children that explain phenomena through questions and answers. His work focuses on making scientific concepts clear through examples and explanations that connect to everyday life.
Jay Hosler creates science comic books that teach biology concepts through visual storytelling. He combines his background as a biology professor with sequential art to explain scientific principles.
David Macaulay writes and illustrates books that explain how things work through detailed technical drawings. His books break down complex systems and structures into understandable components for young readers.
Anita Ganeri authors the "Horrible Geography" series and other educational books that explain complex topics through engaging narratives. She uses the same mix of facts and illustrations to break down scientific concepts for children.
Glenn Murphy produces science books for children that explain phenomena through questions and answers. His work focuses on making scientific concepts clear through examples and explanations that connect to everyday life.
Jay Hosler creates science comic books that teach biology concepts through visual storytelling. He combines his background as a biology professor with sequential art to explain scientific principles.
David Macaulay writes and illustrates books that explain how things work through detailed technical drawings. His books break down complex systems and structures into understandable components for young readers.