What’s in a Name: The Hidden Stories Behind Scientific Names

Temporarily out of stock

Culture and science come together in this amazing and fascinating volume that connects taxonomy with myth and
imagination.

Draco volans. Hedera helix. Tenebrio molitor. These Latin terms sound like spells, but behind each lies a story—sometimes poetic, sometimes absurd, always memorable. Perfect for age 10 and up.

Bold typography and an airy layout make the information inviting and easy to absorb, turning each spread into a moment of discovery for curious readers. More than a catalog of creatures, this book shows how the life sciences intertwine with history, literature, and imagination, to create an extraordinary record of the natural world.

• A frog named after Freddie Mercury in honor of his extraordinary voice.
• An ichneumon wasp christened Moby Dick for its pale, harpoon-like form.
• A jumping spider called Bagheera kiplingi—a double nod to Kipling and his Jungle Book panther.
• Even a dinosaur, Oviraptor philoceratops, once condemned as an egg thief, later celebrated as a devoted parent.

Playful illustrations capture the humor and strangeness behind each name, while short, lively texts deliver fascinating facts in quick, catchy bursts. Curious, surprising, and beautifully crafted, What’s in a Name?transforms the index of life into a cabinet of wonders where language, discovery, and storytelling converge.

AGES: 10 plus

AUTHOR:
Alex Nogues is a geologist specializing in groundwater and paleontology. At the age of twelve, he found his first fossil and, years later, discovered that the previously unidentified fossilized organism had been named Alexina papyracea in his honor. Alex has written over sixty books. He lives in Spain.

Guido Ferro is an Argentinian illustrator who supplies art and editorial direction, graphic design, and animation for clients worldwide. Additionally, he shares his expertise by hosting courses and workshops on illustration and creativity.

SELLING POINTS:
• PERFECT FOR KIDS WHO LOVE WORDS AND NATURE: The book presents the hidden stories behind scientific names, making it ideal for lovers of nature and words.
• EXTRAORDINARY DESIGN: The book is desinged in graphic novel style which makes for an engaging, informative read.
• EXCELLENT WRITING STYLE: The text in the book is explained with a funny wit despite serious contents.
• A GIFT BOOK FOR ALL AGES: A rewarding experience for both children and adults. 

ISBN: 9783791376813
Author: NOGUES, ALEX
Format: Hardcover
Publication date: 01/12/2026
RRP: $52.99
Pages: 64
Dimension: 268mm X 214mm
Imprint: Prestel