The World from Here

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By: Cassy Polimeni Illustrated by: Mel Armstrong

eBook - February 2026 - eRetailers

This beautiful picture book invites children to be open to the wonder in our natural world.

Do you ever look for shapes in the clouds? + Full description

Milo lies in the grass watching cottony cumulus clouds transform into animals. Maya looks out a plane window and marvels at the sky outside and the shapes countries make below. Through their different perspectives, Milo and Maya remind us that there are countless ways to experience the world.

The World from Here explores the fascinating areas of nephology (the study of clouds), meteorology and geography. These sciences help us understand our world and the wonders that make living here on Earth so rewarding.

Reading level varies from child to child, but we recommend this book for ages 5 to 9.

- Short description

Reviews

"This is one of those rare books that speaks to both the child and the adult reading it. For curious kids (especially little science lovers) and for parents who still find themselves cloud-gazing every now and then, it’s an absolute treasure."
@our.tiny.moments (Instagram), 9 June 2026

"This gorgeous picturebook is perfect for kids who are curious about the wonders of our natural world. From clouds and continents, to storms and stars, young readers will enjoy the dual perspectives of Milo and Maya as they observe the world around them."
@aussie_kids_books (Instagram), 10 June 2026

"A calm, reflective and visually striking book that encourages curiosity, observation and empathy – perfect for young readers who love to ask questions and look a little closer at the world around them."
@abbys_fabulous_library (Instagram), 25 February 2026

"In this charming book, Polimeni combines engaging storytelling with scientific principles to explore the natural world... Mel Armstrong's brightly coloured illustrations offer clear visual examples of each concept, with breakout text bubbles that work both within the narrative and as quick reference points. Filled with open-ended questions, the text invites discussion, while Polimeni's reassuring tone and practical advice help children manage fears about extreme weather, flying and the dark."
Lian Hingee, Books+Publishing, 9 December 2025

"This wonderful book explores the sciences that help us understand our world, and the wonders that making living here on Earth so rewarding... Perfect book for curious children with lots of explanations and detailed illustrations."
@itsalibrarianlife (Instagram), 18 April 2026

"Heartwarming illustrations add to the story, providing warmth and texture, and characters to connect with in this lovely non-fiction new release."
Gemma Patience, Kids' Book Review, 4 June 2026

"A brilliant look at the study of clouds, meteorology and geography, perfect for little cloud gazers!"
@get.kids.booked (Instagram), 19 February 2026

"This is a deeply thoughtful book, encouraging children to be aware of their surroundings and observe the natural world. The colourful and appealing illustrations share the pages with text shapes providing fascinating and accessible scientific names and insights. In the final pages are detailed facts about weather as well as a glossary."
Kathryn Beilby, ReadPlus, 9 February 2026

"The illustrations and layout on each page present information in an attractive and colourful way sure to appeal to young readers... there is quite a variety of topics all encouraging children to confidently explore and enjoy their world. Teachers and parents will find this a stimulating and useful resource."
Mia Macrossan, Story Links, 6 June 2026

"This is certainly a book to be explored as well as read. It’s got that treasure-map vibe, with clues and additions carefully crafted into the artwork. And for those who want to delve deeper, there are two pages of facts, then a glossary of terms at the back."
Celia Berrell, Science Rhymes, 16 May 2026

"This is a fascinating book that takes the very abstract concept of perspective and places it into the real world so young readers can begin to understand that each person sees the world and its wonders differently depending on where we are, where we are from, what we know and believe and have experienced, and even our frame of mind at the time."
Barbara Braxton, The Bottom Shelf, 12 February 2026

Details

Hardback | February 2026 | $ 26.99
ISBN: 9781486319855 | 32 pages | 250 x 250 mm
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Colour illustrations

ePDF | February 2026
ISBN: 9781486319862
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Available from eRetailers

ePUB | February 2026
ISBN: 9781486319879
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Available from eRetailers

Features

Explores the sciences that help us understand our world, and the wonders that make living here on Earth so rewarding.
Presents scientific facts on weather, geometry, astronomy and patterns in nature in an accessible and engaging way.
Perfect for curious kids, with breakout boxes to kick-start discussions and an engaging narrative that ties it all together.
Ties in with the Australian primary school curriculum.
Explores dual perspectives, encouraging young readers to broaden their perspective and helping to promote empathy.

Main story
Facts about the weather (and how it makes us feel)
Glossary

Authors

Cassy Polimeni is a children’s author and freelance editor whose stories celebrate our connection with nature and the environment, and the relationship between science and wonder. She lives and works on Bunurong Country.

Mel Armstrong is an illustrator from New Zealand. She blends digital and traditional techniques to create charming children’s books, drawing inspiration from nature and her lively home life.