Description
THEM
Book Summary
An illustrated picture book that challenges the idea that all species live under patriarchal models. Through sixteen portraits from the animal world, the reader will discover how female bison, orcas, octopuses, meerkats, or bonobos exercise leadership, cooperation, and sacrifice within their groups. With a rigorous and poetic approach, this work combines scientific dissemination with a unique artistic sensibility, offering a fascinating look at the female role in nature.
What is it about?
The book explores key moments in the lives of females of sixteen animal species, revealing complex social behaviors that often go unnoticed. From how a young female European bison rises to lead the herd, to the hunting lessons of an orca guided by her grandmother. It also addresses the maternal sacrifice of an octopus, the social reorganization of a meerkat after losing her leadership, or the decision of female bonobos to leave their families upon reaching adulthood. Each story is presented with a balance between the rigor of scientific drawing and the delicacy of poetic illustration, thanks to the work of Lucía Cobo.
Main themes
- Female leadership in the animal kingdom
- Non-patriarchal social structures in wild species
- Intergenerational cooperation and learning among females
- Maternal sacrifice and survival strategies
- Power dynamics and social reorganization in animal groups
Who is it recommended for?
This book is aimed at children aged 6 and up interested in nature and animal behavior, as well as families and educators looking for materials that foster a diverse and realistic view of the natural world. It is also attractive to young readers curious about biology and ethology, and to adults who appreciate scientific illustration with an artistic and narrative approach.
What this book contributes
- Expands the understanding of the role of females in nature, beyond reproductive roles.
- Fosters critical thinking by presenting alternative social models in the animal kingdom.
- Combines scientific rigor with artistic sensibility, enriching the reading experience.
- Offers concrete and fascinating examples of leadership, cooperation, and resilience in diverse species.
Technical specifications
- Author: GUTIERREZ, XULIO
- Publisher: Kalandraka
- Language: Spanish
- Subject: PICTURE BOOKS, NATURAL HISTORY (CHILDREN'S/YA)
- Collection: SCIENCE
- Binding: Hardcover
- Publication date: April 2026
- Number of pages: 36
- Weight: 169 g
Editorial review
An original proposal that unites scientific dissemination and visual beauty, ideal for sparking children's curiosity about animal behavior from a little-explored perspective. Lucía Cobo's illustrations achieve a difficult balance between precision and poetry, while Xulio Gutiérrez's text presents real cases with clarity and sensitivity. Recommended for readers looking for a respectful and enriching approach to nature, far from the usual stereotypes.