Bridges are as important to our lives as roads are, but have you ever wondered why some bridges are different from others? And why are there so many different kinds of bridges around the world? Ladybirds’ Do You Know? — Big Bridges covers every aspect of the science of building bridges, big and small, and makes you understand the importance of bridges.

From the basic question of ‘What is a Bridge?’ to a world view of bridges across the globe, this book makes you an expert in bridges without even standing on one. It is not just a connection between two places, as this book rightly points out; it is an exhibition of architectural talent, culture and history. How? You have to read the book to understand.

If you treat this seemingly thin book as your passport to bridges, you will love it. Every page has an image or two of a bridge we know exists, but we don’t know its importance to that place or what makes it unique. Why some bridges are made of steel, some of rock and a few of ropes, and how they sustain under the weight of the transport that uses them is what this book makes you understand easily.

Written by Hannah Fish and edited by Nick Coates, this book differs from other books on the market for many reasons. First of all, it makes you realise that not all bridges are for buses and cars; some are specifically designed for trains, a few for human travellers on foot, and some even for animals to avoid crossing busy roads. Interesting, isn’t it?

Secondly, it dispels many misconceptions about bridges by simply taking you on a wonderful ride. If you don’t know what is the difference between a beam bridge and an arch bridge, or whether a suspension bridge is stronger than a cantilever bridge, then don’t worry.

This book not only covers that part, but also explains how old bridges are still in use and are relevant despite technological improvements.

Since this book is a Level 1 reader, it features video content (through Ladybirds’ website) and offers projects to motivate and engage young learners like yourself. The enquiry-based approach combined with simple language will help you develop language, communication and investigation skills, as well as test you with a quiz regarding bridges and what you might have learnt from this book.

Published in Dawn, Young World, February 14th, 2026