The Little Book of Mining

The Little Book of Mining
by Kate Harvey, Mel Corrigan (illustrator)
 
The Little Book of Mining is a lively and engaging children’s book that introduces young readers to the rhythm of life on a mine site. Told through playful, repetitive language reminiscent of classic sing-along stories, the book follows a full day and night of mining operations, from the first safety reminder at the start of a shift to the final call to head home.
 
Each spread highlights a different machine at work, including trucks that drive, rigs that drill, diggers that swing, loaders that scoop, and rollers that roll. The story captures the sounds, movements, and energy of a working mine while maintaining a strong emphasis on safety. Throughout the book, the boss of the shift consistently reminds workers to “please be safe,” reinforcing an important message in a reassuring and child-friendly way.
 
The book also helps children understand that mining happens around the clock by showing both daytime and nighttime shifts. As the sky changes from day to night, young readers are introduced to the idea that some jobs continue even after the sun goes down. Mel Corrigan’s illustrations add visual detail and movement, encouraging children to observe the environment and notice what is happening on each page.
 
At the end of the book, a thoughtful set of questions encourages discussion, critical thinking, and engagement. These prompts invite children to reflect on the machines they saw, notice details in the illustrations, and share their own ideas and preferences. This makes the book especially well-suited for shared reading at home or in educational settings.
 
Overall, The Little Book of Mining is an energetic and approachable introduction to mining for young readers. With its rhythmic storytelling, focus on safety, and interactive elements, it is a delightful read for children who enjoy machines, repetition, and learning how the world works, one shift at a time.

Purchase the book at www.livymaymedia.com.au

See more inside the book on Instagram