Every year, the National Science Teachers Association compiles a list of outstanding science books for kids in grades K to 12. Featuring fiction and nonfiction selections, this year’s topics range from the natural world to mathematics to engineering. And the latest selections, which support the Common Core guidelines, also include stories about oil, the hydrogen bomb, plant hunters, and an autistic scientist. Teen readers will be enlightened as they uncover the ever-broadening field of science and the opportunities that it offers them.
HOOSE, Phillip. Moonbird: A Year on the Wind with the Great Survivor B95. Farrar, 2012. ISBN 9780374304683. JLG Level: NM : Nonfiction Middle & HS (Grades 7-11)
Flying over 325,000 miles, Moonbird could have flown to the moon and halfway back in his (at least) 20 years of life. Scientists banded this red knot shorebird in 1995. Joining a flock from Tierra del Fuego in Argentina, this red knot travels more than 9,000 miles to the Arctic to breed and then flies back―18,000 miles each year. These birds can fly for days without food or water. Scientists are fascinated by their strength and determination as their food supply and natural habitats continue to be threatened. The red knot population has declined by 80 percent.
Hoose’s well-researched account of these birds and their amazing story is documented with pictures, interviews, and maps. The narrative style complements the facts and makes it more accessible to readers.
MARRIN, Albert. Black Gold: The Story of Oil in Our Lives. Knopf, 2012. ISBN 9780375966736. JLG Level: NM : Nonfiction Middle & HS (Grades 7-11)
Using a narrative voice, Marrin gives a history of coal and oil, before examining how oil affects our everyday lives. Readers will be able to digest facts and figures, while learning about the wars and struggles over the discovery and uses of oil. Many facts are punctuated with graphs, charts, and reproductions. Broaching subjects such as terrorism and the environment, readers will have much to discuss as the depletion of these resources continues.
An index, notes, and a glossary accompany the text.
MONTGOMERY, Sy. Temple Grandin: How the Girl Who Loved Cows Embraced Autism and Changed the World. Houghton, 2012. ISBN 9780547443157. JLG Level: NM : Nonfiction Middle & HS (Grades 7-11)
In 1950 Temple Grandin was diagnosed with autism. A fiercely protective mother sought out teachers and doctors for her daughter, providing her with an education that would eventually help Grandin become one of the world’s leading authorities on animal care. She developed equipment and facilities for the humane treatment of animals raised for food, which significantly improved the cattle industry. Using photographs and Grandin’s own words, Montgomery’s biography is the story of a powerful woman who overcame enormous obstacles.
Readers will connect with Grandin in the stories of her childhood, regardless of her handicap. Graphic descriptions of the slaughterhouses are grim, but assist in emphasizing the gravity of the situation and allow the reader to appreciate the impact made by one woman who made a difference.
SHEINKIN, Steve. Bomb: The Race to Build—and Steal—the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon. Roaring Brook, 2012. ISBN 9781596434875. JLG Level: HH : History – High School (Grades 10 & up)
Books on war, especially WWII, are big hits with boys― from as early as grade four. This upper-level nonfiction book is just the ticket to replace some of those musty, basement-smelling books you have on your shelves. Not your boring textbook information (which is ironic, considering the author used to write textbooks), Bomb begins with Harry Gold’s admission to the FBI that he was a spy. In addition to being a gripping spy story, Sheinkin concludes the text with quotes, letters, and photographs of the period—and a powerful statement: “It’s a story with no end in sight. And, like it or not, you’re in it.”
SILVEY, Anita. The Plant Hunters: True Stories of Their Daring Adventures to the Far Corners of the Earth. Farrar, 2012. ISBN 9780374309084. JLG Level: NM : Nonfiction Middle & HS (Grades 7-11)
When you think of the great explorers, you might think of sailing ships, frigid Arctic temperatures, or massive mountains. Silvey’s narrative tells the story of naturalists who faced hostile natives, dangerous animals, and unwelcoming environments―all for the love of science. Identifying new plants, finding cures for diseases, and the thrill of the hunt drive these scientists into situations that may even put their lives at risk. Though these stories are also entertaining, there are plenty of facts for research and inspiration by scientists who work in the field.
Filled with botanical illustrations, readers will pour over the accounts of rubber trees in Brazil and be amazed at the diversity in the plant world. Add vampire bats, piranhas, and tigers, and you have a real winner. An extensive bibliography provides a wealth of leads for interested researchers.
For these and other fabulous science books, search Junior Library Guild.
Junior Library Guild is a collection development service that helps school and public libraries acquire the best new children’s and young adult books. Season after season, year after year, Junior Library Guild book selections go on to win awards, collect starred or favorable reviews, and earn industry honors. Visit us at www.JuniorLibraryGuild.com.
 |
On Common Core: Watch SLJ's FREE webcast series on how the new Common Core education standards are impacting your library, your school, and your students. In these webcasts, library, literacy, and education experts from across the country will explore how to effectively implement this nationwide initiative. You will emerge more able than ever to navigate the Core's challenges, to make the most of the opportunities it brings, and to be a leader in your institution. |
This article was featured in School Library Journal's SLJTeen enewsletter. Subscribe today to have more articles like this delivered to you twice a month for free.
About Deborah B. Ford
