Invented by Animals: questions to ask and activities to try
Velcro, bullet trains and more were inspired by animals. Invented by Animals is a Blue Peter Award-winning book about nature's inventions.
What age is it for? Invented by Animals is best for ages 7–11. Good for: Inventions inspired by animals.
Invented by Animals (Christiane Dorion and Gosia Herba)
- Age
- 7-11
- Best for
- Inventions inspired by animals
Read one invention at a time, then look for nature-inspired designs at home.
What it helps with
- Biomimicry
- Invention and engineering
- Animal adaptations
- Curiosity
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “Which animal inspired Velcro?”
- “How did a kingfisher help trains?”
- “Which invention surprised you?”
- “What animal power would you copy?”
- “What would you invent?”
- “Why is nature a good inventor?”
5-minute activities to try together
Animal invention
Invent something based on an animal's ability.
Spot it
Find something at home that copies nature.
Free printables: Invented by Animals worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
Funny Bums, Freaky Beaks (Alex Morss, Sean Taylor and Sarah Edmonds)
- Best for
- Weird and wonderful animal body parts
- Age
- 5-8
How Was That Built? (Roma Agrawal, Katie Hickey and Sally Beets)
- Best for
- The stories behind amazing structures
- Age
- 7-11
The History of the World in 100 Animals (Simon Barnes and Frann Preston-Gannon)
- Best for
- How 100 animals shaped human history
- Age
- 7-11
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.