THINGS go full circle they say, so turn off your in-car DVDs and get the kids away from the playstation — it's time to rediscover the I-Spy books.

These Michelin spotters' guides, first published in 1948, have been re-launched for today's children, having sold 18-million copies in their heyday.

What better way is there to keep youngsters amused on long journeys and stop the incessant 'are we there yet?' which starts ten minutes after leaving home.

As well as things to spot while in a car and on a train there are books on working vehicles, flags, classic cars, ancient Britain and the guides on nature, birds, creepy crawlies, trees and wild flowers will get the kids reaching for their coats and wellies and dragging the rest of the family on a nature ramble.

Each book contains up to 200 themed colour photographs and for those too young to remember the originals, points are available for spotting certain things, the harder to spot, the more points — just remember not to take your eyes off the road when you are driving in a rush of enthusiasm to beat the kids! You can even double your points by answering various questions, getting you closer to that 1,000 score you need to send off for your certificate and badge.

These 12 pocket-sized I-spy books, priced £2.50 each and available from bookshops, will help you discover the world around you — no batteries needed. Another 12 books will be published in the spring. Happy hunting.

ALISON STEPHENSON