Have you ever wondered about those books that are face down on the shelf (spine up) or are so big they can't even fit on the shelf? In library world we call these kinds of books "oversized" and sometimes they are forgotten even though they are so large. Let's change that sad truth and highlight some truly wonderful big books. Maybe one of these will even become one of your new favorites!

A World of Discovery written by Richard Platt and illustrated by James Brown

Rivers: A Visual History From River to Sea by Peter Goes

One thing these big books all have in common is that they are visually stunning. Peter Goes' River truly captivates the eye in terms of its lush, soft colors, and shadowy, yet detailed, images. The book is chock full of facts resulting in a cross between an atlas and a nature study. The book is divided into the different contents and zeroes in on rivers as well-known as The Amazon River, all the way down to lesser known, but still vitally important rivers, like The Waikato River in New Zealand. Your eyes will be in for a treat with this lovely book.

The Big Book of Birds by Yuval Zommer

This is the book to get for everything you've ever wanted to learn about horses. With more than 40 flaps, pop-ups, and pull-tabs you'll find information like: the reason that horses can rest standing upright is so they can run away fast if they sense danger, how to take care of horses and what to do if they need to go to a veterinarian, and the ins and outs of horseback riding and horseracing. Test out your horse-loving knowledge!

A Child's Book of Art: Great Pictures First Words by Lucy Micklewait

Art may seem like something that's just for grown-ups but it's absolutely for kids too! What better way to combine the great artists and paintings with words and terms that all kids need to know. You'll find stuff like "in the bedroom" highlighted in Vincent van Gogh's Bedroom at Arles, "pets", highlighted in Pablo Picasso's Paul on the Donkey, and "wild animals" from different cultures including a Turkish manuscript and an Aboriginal bark painting. There is so much to see and learn. Make this a wonderful introduction to art for you!

The Adventurous Kid's Guide to The World's Most Mysterious Places (Enter at Your Own Risk!) written by Patrick Makin and illustrated by Whooli Chen

Now, I don't know about you, but the title of this book alone makes me want to look inside and find out! I won't spoil all of the cool spots for you but here's a hint of some of the places you'll learn about: The Forbidden Rainforest, The Haunted Island, Where Snakes Rule the Land, and The Deepest Place on Earth. Cross these places off of your lifelong bucket list to travel places you've never seen before.

History Atlas: Heroes, Villains, and Magnificent Maps from Fifteen Extraordinary Civilizations by Thiago de Moraes

Have you ever been intimidated of the daunting task of learning world history? Do you have textbooks that have so many words or dates that you can't possibly remember everything? What if, instead, you had bright, colorful cartoon-like images of historical figures acting out what happened long ago-that you can't help but be intrigued and want to learn more? This book will save the day! You'll be entertained viewing scenes like the fashion of different time periods (strike a pose Julius Ceasar!), a cast of murdering kings from the Persian world, Ching Shih, a pirate who pillaged everything from anyone who crossed her path, and more! 

Big Magic for Little Hands: 25 Astounding Illusions for Young Magicians by Joshua Jay

Learn things like: Vanish Your Homework, Scare the Pants Off Your Parents, or Levitate Your Brother. These are magic tricks like you've never seen before!

Cara