Book Review- How did I get here?

By Philip Bunting

How Did I Get Here? is an engaging starter book on evolution designed for young readers. In just over 30 pages, Philip Bunting condenses the vast story of life—beginning with the Big Bang and the creation of the universe—into a simple and approachable narrative for kids.

The book effectively introduces children to the basics of evolution, answering the “how,” “where,” “when,” and “why” of our origins. However, certain aspects, particularly the transition from single-celled organisms to humans, feel oversimplified. This could inadvertently lead to the misconception of evolution as a straightforward, linear process, which we know is not the case. Additionally, the presentation of scientific hypotheses as indisputable facts might be misleading for young readers. While the content is well-supported, leaving room for evolving scientific understanding would have been a better approach.

The language is kid-friendly, with a touch of humor to keep things light and entertaining, though some of the humor might go over younger children’s heads. The illustrations are vibrant and engaging, enhancing the overall appeal for early readers.

For those looking for a more detailed and nuanced exploration of evolution, I’d recommend The Story of Life by Catherine Barr and Steve Williams, which provides a more thorough and accurate take on the subject.

That said, How Did I Get Here? is a charming, beginner-friendly book, perfect for children aged 4 and up. It’s a fun introduction to evolution, brimming with humor, and ideal for sparking curiosity in little learners.