In these books, educators will find solid choices to support some aspect of the Common Core State Standards. Most of the publishers have made a noticeable effort to address the standards and relate math to everyday experiences, giving readers connections that help them engage with the texts. These volumes will not fly off the shelves, but teachers will appreciate them as resources to use one-on-one or in small groups; a couple of them would even work well in class discussions.

Preschool-Grade 4

BUSSIERE , Desirée. What in the World Is a Baker’s Dozen?: And Other Interesting Measurements. ISBN 978-1-61783-595-7; ISBN 978-1-61480-742-1.
––––. What in the World Is a Centimeter?: And Other Metric Measurements. ISBN 978-1-61783-596-4; ISBN 978-1-61480-743-8.
––––. What in the World Is a Leap Year?: And Other Time Measurements. ISBN 978-1-61783-597-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-744-5.
––––. What in the World Is a Mile?: And Other Distance Measurements. ISBN 978-1-61783-598-8; ISBN 978-1-61480-745-2.
––––. What in the World Is a Ton?: And Other Weight & Volume Measurements. ISBN 978-1-61783-599-5; ISBN 978-1-61480-746-9.
––––. What in the World Is an Acre?: And Other Land & Sea Measurements. ISBN 978-1-61783-600-8; ISBN 978-1-61480-747-6.
ea vol: 24p. (Let’s Measure More Series). glossary. photos. ABDO. 2013. PLB $22.78; ebook $22.78.
K-Gr 2–These small books cover many  different measurements in a concise fashion. Distance, weight, area, volume, time, and metric measurements are discussed. After an introduction, each topic is given a spread; a description is clearly written in a few sentences on the left and an example appears on the right (e.g., “Amelia’s dad is a teacher. He orders a gross of pencils.”). The color photos are attractive but clearly staged–all the children look like they are in a photo shoot. Each title concludes with a “Fun facts” page, a quiz, and a simple glossary. These books are excellent for their discussion of lesser-known units, such as survey township, gross, eon, grain, league, and cubit, which would even be helpful for students on the older side of the target audience. Valuable introductions for classroom discussion and units about measurements.

CAPOTE , Lori. Monster Knows More Than, Less Than. ISBN 978-1-4048-7947-8; ISBN 978-1-4048-8039-9. LC 2012029715.
––––. Monster Knows Numbers. ISBN 978-1-4048-7946-1; ISBN 978-1-4048-8038-2. LC 2012029716.
––––. Monster Knows Patterns. ISBN 978-1-4048-7949-2; ISBN 978-1-4048-8040-5. LC 2012029717.
––––. Monster Knows Shapes. ISBN 978-1-4048-7948-5; ISBN 978-1-4048-8041-2. LC 2012029719.
ea vol: illus. by Chip Wass. 24p. (Monster Knows Math Series). websites. Picture Window. 2013. PLB $23.99; BD $7.95.
PreS-Gr 1–Cute monsters are the stars of these singsongy books that introduce numbers up to 20, patterns, shapes, and the concept of more than and less than. Readers will be attracted to the cartoon illustrations, which have bright colors, clean lines, and goofy-looking creatures. The texts are light and humorous at times; after all, these are monsters: “Which bumper car should I choose? More tires on one car are flat. Flat tires make the ride so bumpy. I Li-Li-Li-Like that!” Although these books are not very substantial, students will have fun poring over them. Good for one-on-one sharing to support the topics.

COCCA , Lisa Colozza. Bar Graphs. ISBN 978-1-61080-911-5; ISBN 978-1-61080-936-8; ISBN 978-1-61080-961-0. LC 2012030944.
––––. Graphing Story Problems. ISBN 978-1-61080-914-6; ISBN 978-1-61080-939-9; ISBN 978-1-61080-964-1. LC 2012033603.
––––. Line Graphs. ISBN 978-1-61080-912-2; ISBN 978-1-61080-937-5; ISBN 978-1-61080-962-7. LC 2012033982.
––––. Pictographs. ISBN 978-1-61080-913-9; ISBN 978-1-61080-938-2; ISBN 978-1-61080-963-4. LC 2012032954 .
––––. Pie Graphs. ISBN 978-1-61080-915-3; ISBN 978-1-61080-940-5; ISBN 978-1-61080-990-0. LC 2012033598.
––––. Tally Charts. ISBN 978-1-61080-916-0; ISBN 978-1-61080-941-2; ISBN 978-1-61080-966-5. LC 2012031090.
ea vol: illus. by Kathleen Petelinsek. 24p. (Math Explorer Junior: Making and Using Graphs Series). charts. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Cherry Lake. 2013. PLB $28.50; pap. $12.79; ebook $28.50.
Gr 1-4–Each book begins with an introductory chapter (“What Is a Bar Graph?”), then provides three examples, and finishes with a summary section. An activity that can be printed from the publisher’s website follows each example; some ask students to make a graph, while others suggest that they use what they have learned to answer questions. The instructions are clearly written and the exercises are often lighthearted. For example, kids are asked to create charts or graphs of things such cows, clouds, pets, and number of books read. Pie Graph is the most challenging volume since creating the right wedge sizes is typically a difficult undertaking. However, the book delivers a solid explanation. The appealing layout features bright colors and a mix of graphs, illustrations, and color photos. These titles are activity-driven (even more exercises can be found in the final chapters and through the websites listed at the back of each volume) and can easily be incorporated into lesson plans.

LOUGHRAN , Donna. Carnival Coins: How Will We Count Our Money? ISBN 978-1-59953-552-4; ISBN 978-1-60357-521-8.
––––. A Day at Mini-Golf: What’s the Length? ISBN 978-1-59953-556-2; ISBN 978-1-60357-525-6.
––––. Herding a Hundred: Counting the Sheep. ISBN 978-1-59953-547-0; ISBN 978-1-60357-516-4.
––––. Look for Them: Where Are the Shapes? illus. ISBN 978-1-59953-550-0; ISBN 978-1-60357-519-5.
––––. On the Playground: How Do You Build Place Value? diags. ISBN 978-1-59953-549-4; ISBN 978-1-60357-518-8.
––––. Picnic Fun: Hot Dog Operations. ISBN 978-1-59953-548-7; ISBN 978-1-60357-517-1.
––––. Ship Shape: Making Ships Fly. diags. ISBN 978-1-59953-554-8; ISBN 978-1-60357-523-2.
––––. Tending the Tide Pool: The Parts Make a Whole. ISBN 978-1-59953-555-5; ISBN 978-1-60357-524-9.
––––. Time Ticks By: How Do You Read a Clock? ISBN 978-1-59953-551-7; ISBN 978-1-60357-520-1.
––––. Toy Tally: How Many Toys Are There? ISBN 978-1-59953-553-1; ISBN 978-1-60357-522-5.
ea vol: 24p. (iMath Series, A). charts. further reading. glossary. index. notes. photos. Norwood. 2013. PLB $21.27; ebook $21.27.
K-Gr 2 –This subset is a busy mix of language arts and math. The texts have short sentences, and most of the titles engage readers with a story. Each book begins with “iMath Ideas,” which introduces a concept, poses a math problem, and provides strategies for getting the answer, encouraging students to evaluate which method is strongest. Every volume ends by reiterating the same “iMath Ideas.” Additional sections include a “Discover Activity” and an informational section that connects the math discussion to science, history, or art. Each book ends with a “What Comes Next” page that gives ideas for expanding on the concepts presented and an “Additional Notes” section that provides answers to the various problems. Photos, charts, illustrations, and diagrams decorate the pages. At times, there is so much going on that the math might become lost for this young audience. For example, it seems almost random that “ligers” and “tigons” are discussed in Picnic Fun. Do not expect intense computational practice. This comprehensive set of CCSS resources may work well with reluctant math students.

MAHANEY, Ian F. Math at the Amusement Park: Representing and Solving Problems. ISBN 978-1-4488-9653-0; ISBN 978-1-4488-9892-3.
––––. Math at the Bank: Place Value and Properties of Operations. ISBN 978-1-4488-9655-4; ISBN 978-1-4488-9894-7.
––––. Math in the Kitchen: Fractions: Fractions. ISBN 978-1-4488-9656-1; ISBN 978-1-4488-9895-4.
––––. Math on Halloween: The Properties of Multiplication and Division. ISBN 978-1-4488-9654-7; ISBN 978-1-4488-9893-0.
––––. Math on the Playground: Area and Perimeter. ISBN 978-1-4488-9657-8; ISBN 978-1-4488-9896-1.
––––. Math with Cars and Trucks: Measurement and Estimation. maps. ISBN 978-1-4488-9658-5; ISBN 978-1-4488-9897-8.
ea vol: 24p. (Core Math Skills Series). diags. glossary. index. photos. websites. Rosen/PowerKids Pr. 2013. PLB $22.60; ebook $22.60.
Gr 3-6–Each volume presents specific concepts. For example, Bank examines saving money and place values, Kitchen discusses fractions, and Halloween explains multiplication and division. Each spread provides a short, clear explanation and then gives an example (e.g., cutting a sandwich, counting candy, or waiting in line at an amusement park). A “Figure It Out” problem on every spread will challenge but not frustrate children (answers are in the back). The examples are clearly explained and include computational basics and problem solving. The color photos are decorative, but do little to help enhance students’ understanding of the concepts. Readers who already have some knowledge of the topics but need further explanation and practice will get the most out of these titles.

MIDTHUN , Joseph. Addition. ISBN 978-0-7166-1432-6. LC 2012031035.
––––. Division. ISBN 978-0-7166-1433-3. LC 2012031042.
––––. Fractions. ISBN 978-0-7166-1434-0. LC 2012035464.
––––. Multiplication. ISBN 978-0-7166-1435-7. LC 2012031036.
––––. Numbers. ISBN 978-0-7166-1436-4. LC 2012031038.
––––. Subtraction. ISBN 978-0-7166-1437-1. LC 2012031040.
ea vol: illus. by Samuel Hiti. 32p. (Building Blocks of Mathematics Series). further reading. index. websites. World Book Publishing. 2013. PLB Price for Set $169.
Gr 3-6 –This series uses a comic-book format to appeal to the target audience. Cartoon narrators guide readers through different  strategies to solve mathematical story problems involving fractions, multiplication, etc. There are some humorous, edgier moments; in Subtraction, for example, seven worms escape the fish hook only to be eaten by a bird (that responds with a “Burp”). The texts move quickly through the concepts, and thus will be most useful for students with established knowledge and/or a teacher nearby to answer questions. Each volume typically ends with a page of additional facts; resource lists; and a page that includes a “Note to Educators,” an index to the strategies introduced in the texts, and a list of “Educator Resources.” For teachers who want to challenge students to consider different methods of solving problems, these books are a must.

PERRITANO , John. Football Numbers: Graphing Data. ISBN 978-1-59953-566-1; ISBN 978-1-60357-535-5.
––––. Ivy Sue Needs a House: Building with Equivalent Fractions. ISBN 978-1-59953-559-3; ISBN 978-1-60357-528-7.
––––. Looking for Blackbeard’s Treasure: Measuring the Distance. reprods. ISBN 978-1-59953-561-6; ISBN 978-1-60357-530-0.
––––. Mummies in the Library: Divide the Pages. ISBN 978-1-59953-558-6; ISBN 978-1-60357-527-0.
––––. The Mystery Beetle: What’s Multiplying? ISBN 978-1-59953-557-9; ISBN 978-1-60357-526-3.
––––. Pools to Ponds: Area, Perimeter, and Capacity. ISBN 978-1-59953-560-9; ISBN 978-1-60357-529-4.
––––. Seeing Halves: Symmetry in Our World. ISBN 978-1-59953-564-7; ISBN 978-1-60357-533-1.
––––. Space Adventures: Where Does the Time Go? diags. ISBN 978-1-59953-562-3; ISBN 978-1-60357-531-7.
––––. Start the Game: Geometry in Sports. diags. reprods. ISBN 978-1-59953-563-0; ISBN 978-1-60357-532-4.
––––. A Toy Store Summer: Finding Area. diags. ISBN 978-1-59953-565-4; ISBN 978-1-60357-534-8.
ea vol: 32p. (iMath Series, B). charts. further reading. maps. glossary. index. notes. photos. Norwood. 2013. PLB $22.60; ebook $22.60.
Gr 3-4 –These comprehensive CCSS resources have an appealing layout and attractive photos, charts, maps, diagrams, and illustrations. The texts are a busy mix of language arts and math; each volume contains an engaging story line and information that will draw in readers. For example, Mummies combines directions about division with facts about embalming. Every book begins with “iMath Ideas,” which introduce a concept, pose a math problem, and provides strategies for getting the answer. The strategies are reiterated at the end of the book. Questions throughout encourage student engagement. Also of interest are a “Discover Activity” and an informational section that connects the discussion to science, history, or art. Each book ends with a “What Comes Next” page that gives ideas for expanding on the concepts learned and an “Additional Notes” section that provides answers to the various problems. Do not expect intense computational practice; the casual approach may work well with reluctant math students.

REYNOLDS, Mattie. Kids Making Money: An Introduction to Financial Literacy. ISBN 978-1-937529-41-3; ISBN 978-1-937529-37-6.
––––. Saving for the Future: An Introduction to Financial Literacy. ISBN 978-1-937529-42-0; ISBN 978-1-937529-38-3.
––––. Sharing with Others: An Introduction to Financial Literacy. ISBN 978-1-937529-44-4; ISBN 978-1-937529-40-6.
––––. Super-Smart Shopping: An Introduction to Financial Literacy. ISBN 978-1-937529-43-7; ISBN 978-1-937529-39-0.
ea vol: 24p. (Start Smart: Money Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Red Chair. 2013. PLB $23.80; pap. $5.95.
K-Gr 2–These books are meant to teach children about earning, saving, spending, and sharing money. Each one has three chapters and emphasizes the difference between needs versus wants. The texts are written in a bland conversational tone with little to engage children, e.g., “When someone is ready to buy things, there are many ways to shop.”  Fictional characters are introduced to illustrate concepts. For example, in Saving, “Olivia decided to save money for one more month. Then she bought new snow sleds for herself and her brother.” The stock photographs, although pleasant, do not enhance the texts. Except for the opening chapter spreads, the layout typically consists of a photo per page with a paragraph of text underneath.

ROBINSON, Tom. Auto Racing: Math at the Racetrack. ISBN 978-1-61-473406-2.
––––. Baseball: Math at the Ballpark. ISBN 978-1-61-473407-9.
––––. Basketball: Math on the Court. ISBN 978-1-61-473408-6.
––––. Football: Math on the Gridiron. ISBN 978-1-61-473409-3.
––––. Hockey: Math at the Rink. ISBN 978-1-61-473410-9.
––––. Soccer: Math on the Field. ISBN 978-1-61-473411-6.
ea vol: 32p. (Math in Sports Series). charts. diags. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. The Child’s World. 2013. PLB $27.07.
Gr 3-6–This series does an excellent job of using past and present sports figures to show how statistics can prove a player’s worth. Each book begins with a chapter on “The Basics,” covering the area, perimeter, or length of the court, rink, track, or playing field and other calculations (scoring angles, etc.) that apply to the sport. Chapters that focus on statistics, athletes, and famous competitions follow. Most spreads consist of a few computation questions with explanations of the answers and a large, engaging photo with an informative caption. The problem-solving requires some advanced thinking. Most of the exercises use basic math operations along with calculating percentages (although two errors were found). Numerous charts and graphs compare top players and teams. Students who want to know why their favorite players are the best will love these books.

STEFFORA , Tracey. Math at the Airport. ISBN 978-1-4329-7151-9; ISBN 978-1-4329-7158-8. LC 2012013370.
––––. Math at the Hospital. ISBN 978-1-4329-7152-6; ISBN 978-1-4329-7159-5. LC 2012013371.
––––. Math at the Store. ISBN 978-1-4329-7153-3; ISBN 978-1-4329-7160-1. LC 2012013374.
––––. Math at the Train Station. ISBN 978-1-4329-7154-0; ISBN 978-1-4329-7161-8. LC 2012013379.
––––. Math at the Vet. ISBN 978-1-4329-7155-7; ISBN 978-1-4329-7162-5. LC 2012013380.
––––. Math on the Farm. ISBN 978-1-4329-7156-4; ISBN 978-1-4329-7163-2. LC 2012013381.
ea vol: 24p. (Math on the Job Series). glossary. index. photos. Heinemann. 2013. PLB $21.99; pap. $5.99.
PreS-K–These basic books are aimed at teaching students how important math is in the everyday world. The texts are minimal with one to two sentences per page. For example, “The cashier counts money.” and “The pilot measures how fast.” The color stock photos are attractive (if staged looking) and are successful in aiding reading comprehension. (“The vet counts heartbeats” shows a picture of a man listening with a stethoscope to a horse’s heart.) Although there are no math operations calculated, each book has four pages to questions that encourage readers to practice what they are learning, e.g., “How many toes can you count?”  Answers are provided in the back of every volume. With their limited use and lack of appeal to independent readers, these books are not a necessary  purchase, but they may be helpful in career discussions and as introductions to real-world math problems.

Grades 5 & Up

BRUNNER-JASS , Renata. Designer Digs: Finding Area and Surface Area. diags. maps. ISBN 978-1-59953-574-6; ISBN 978-1-60357-543-0.
––––. Field of Play: Measuring Distance, Rate, and Time. maps. ISBN 978-1-59953-571-5; ISBN 978-1-60357-540-9.
––––. Finding the Treasure: Coordinate Grids. diags. maps. ISBN 978-1-59953-573-9; ISBN 978-1-60357-542-3.
––––. The Garden Club: Operations with Fractions. ISBN 978-1-59953-570-8; ISBN 978-1-60357-539-3.
––––. Hidden Ducks: Describing and Interpreting Data. ISBN 978-1-59953-572-2; ISBN 978-1-60357-541-6.
––––. Save Now, Buy Later: Finding Unit Prices. maps. ISBN 978-1-59953-569-2; ISBN 978-1-60357-538-6.
––––. The Science Olympiads: Proportions and Ratios. diags. ISBN 978-1-59953-576-0; ISBN 978-1-60357-545-4.
––––. Stir It Up: Mixing Decimals. maps. ISBN 978-1-59953-568-5; ISBN 978-1-60357-537-9.
–??––. Winning the Game: Putting Miles in Their Place. reprods. ISBN 978-1-59953-567-8; ISBN 978-1-60357-536-2.
––––. A Year at the Fairgrounds: Finding Volume. diags. ISBN 978-1-59953-575-3; ISBN 978-1-60357-544-7.
ea vol: 48p. (iMath Series, C). charts. further reading. glossary. index. notes. photos. Norwood. 2013. PLB $23.94; ebook $23.94.
Gr 5-6–This subset provides an engaging mix of social science, language arts, and math. For example, in Designer Digs readers will get caught up in Anela’s school project that requires her to use equations for finding area to create unusual living spaces. Each book begins with a discussion of strategies and provides several methods for solving the posed problem. Student engagement is encouraged with leading questions. Additional sections include a “Discover Activity” and an informational text section that connects the math discussion to science, history, or art. Photos, maps, illustrations, charts, and diagrams aid in comprehension. Each book ends with a “What Comes Next” page that gives ideas for expanding on the concepts learned and an “Additional Notes” section that provides answers to the various problems. These volumes are not contrived collections of math activities; readers will believe the math is part of the story. This casual and creative approach will be especially helpful to reluctant math students. Overall, a comprehensive set of CCSS resources.

Most of these series will be valuable resources for schools, but few will be appealing to independent readers–except maybe The Child’s World’s “Math in Sports,” which also targets several new standard requirements. However, used one-on-one, in a small group, or even as the basis for a class, these sets can help children learn and practice math concepts. Cherry Lake’s “Math Explorer Junior: Making and Using Graphs” contains clear instructions and can easily be used for a lesson. Elementary students (and their teachers) may find ABDO’s “Let’s Measure More” helpful; the series offers exposure to measurement units not typically found in other books on the topic. PowerKids’s “Core Math Skills” aligns well with the CCSS and can assist strugglers and those needing more practice. World Book’s “Building Blocks of Mathematics” provides problem-solving strategies that will be helpful for students searching for a challenge as well as teachers looking for alternative approaches to the concepts. If looking for a one-stop shop, Norwood’s “iMath” provides a comprehensive set of CCSS-friendly resources that offer multiple strategies to problem solving. The mix of language arts and math will appeal to teachers.

The fall of 2012 was a strong season for new series in American history and geography. In comparison, the spring of 2013 has a small turnout. However, that does not mean that these books are also-rans. Quite the contrary is true. All of these sets are justifiable purchases: one provides a panoramic view, two discuss formative events, and the final one gives readers all the geographical and cultural insights of a long-time local by focusing on important waterways. The authors present their subjects with authority, enthusiasm, and an understanding of their target audiences. Librarians looking to beef up their 900 sections will do well to start here.

Preschool-Grade 4

BRITTON , Arthur K. Life in the Wild West . chron. maps. photos. ISBN 978-1-4339-8439-6; ISBN 978-1-4339-8442-6. LC 2012022059.
LEVY , Janey. Life During the Gold Rush. diags. photos. ISBN 978-1-4339-8429-7; ISBN 978-1-4339-8432-7. LC 2012020742.
RAJCZAK , Kristen. Life as a Pioneer . ISBN 978-1-4339-8419-8; ISBN 978-1-4339-8422-8. LC 2012018553.
––––. Life During the American Revolution. diags. ISBN 978-1-4339-8424-2; ISBN 978-1-4339-8427-3. LC 2012019735.
––––. Life in the American Colonies. maps. photos. ISBN 978-1-4339-8434-1; ISBN 978-1-4339-8437-2. LC 2012022216.
––––. Life on a Wagon Train. photos. ISBN 978-1-4339-8444-0; ISBN 978-1-4339-8447-1. LC 2012031288.
ea vol: 24p. (What You Didn’t Know About History Series). further reading. glossary. index. reprods. websites. Gareth Stevens. 2013. PLB $22.60; ebook $22.60.
Gr 2-3 –More earnest than the “You Wouldn’t Want To…” series (Scholastic), and for a slightly younger audience, this set provides compelling details about day-to-day life in various American epochs. The simple design makes the books appealing to young readers. The accessible writing is straightforward and succinct. Paragraphs are short, and the fonts are large and plain. The main body of text appears on the verso while the captioned illustrations appear on the recto. The large, colorful images consist of archival and modern-day photographs, period reproductions, and maps. Most spreads feature a “Did You Know?” text box that contains an intriguing fact or anecdote. For instance, “One woman on her way to the goldfields was offered $5 for a biscuit she had made. When she didn’t reply at once, the man raised his offer to $10!” All in all, a first-rate series for budding historians.

MARSICO , Katie. The Chesapeake Bay. ISBN 978-1-62431-013-3; ISBN 978-1-62431-037-9; ISBN 978-1-62431-061-4. LC 2012034740.
––––. The Colorado River. ISBN 978-1-62431-014-0; ISBN 978-1-62431-038-6; ISBN 978-1-62431-062-1. LC 2012036043.
––––. The Everglades. ISBN 978-1-62431-017-1; ISBN 978-1-62431-041-6; ISBN 978-1-62431-065-2. LC 2012034738.
––––. The Gulf of Mexico. ISBN 978-1-62431-016-4; ISBN 978-1-62431-040-9; ISBN 978-1-62431-064-5. LC 2012034739.
––––. The Mississippi River. ISBN 978-1-62431-011-9; ISBN 978-1-62431-035-5; ISBN 978-1-62431-059-1. LC 2012037581.
––––. The Missouri River. ISBN 978-1-62431-010-2; ISBN 978-1-62431-034-8; ISBN 978-1-62431-058-4. LC 2012036821.
––––. Puget Sound . ISBN 978-1-62431-015-7; ISBN 978-1-62431-039-3; ISBN 978-1-62431-063-8. LC 2012034741.
––––. The Rio Grande. ISBN 978-1-62431-012-6; ISBN 978-1-62431-036-2; ISBN 978-1-62431-060-7. LC 2012035444.
ea vol: 32p. (Social Studies Explorer: It’s Cool to Learn About America’s Waterways Series). charts. further reading. glossary. illus. index. maps. photos. websites. Cherry Lake. 2013. PLB $28.50; pap. $14.21; ebook $28.50.
Gr 3-5 –Chatty and informal in tone, these volumes provide a wealth of information regarding each waterway’s history, geographical characteristics, wildlife, and influence on the development of nearby towns and cities. Conservation is emphasized in all the titles. The importance of each waterway commercially and recreationally is also discussed. Vocabulary words are set apart in bold font and defined in the glossary. Activities are scattered throughout each text, including recipes inspired by local cuisine, instructions for making a field guide, and directions on how to write an eco-conscious letter to politicians. Quizzes encourage further interactivity. Images are prolific and colorful. There are photos, maps, reproductions, and illustrations. The attractive postage stamp motif adds visual cohesiveness to the set.

Grades 5 & Up

HAMEN , Susan E. The Thirteen Colonies. maps. photos. ISBN 978-1-61783-709-8; ISBN 978-1-61480-800-8; ISBN 978-1-61783-759-3. LC 2012946492.
HIGGINS , Melissa. The Jamestown Colony. maps. photos. ISBN 978-1-61783-710-4; ISBN 978-1-61480-801-5; ISBN 978-1-61783-760-9. LC 2012946532.
KALLIO , Jamie. The Mayflower Compact. maps. photos. ISBN 978-1-61783-711-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-802-2; ISBN 978-1-61783-761-6. LC 2012946531.
KJELLE , Marylou Morano. The Boston Massacre. ISBN 978-1-61783-706-7; ISBN 978-1-61480-797-1; ISBN 978-1-61783-756-2. LC 2012946535.
MALASPINA , Ann. The Boston Tea Party. photos. ISBN 978-1-61783-707-4; ISBN 978-1-61480-798-8; ISBN 978-1-61783-757-9. LC 2012914475.
RISSMAN , Rebecca. The Declaration of Independence. maps. photos. ISBN 978-1-61783-708-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-799-5; ISBN 978-1-61783-758-6. LC 2012946538.
SCHMIDT , Maegan. The US Constitution and Bill of Rights. diags. maps. photos. ISBN 978-1-61783-713-5; ISBN 978-1-61480-804-6; ISBN 978-1-61783-763-0. LC 2012946539.
ea vol: 48p. (Foundations of Our Nation Series). chron. further reading. glossary. index. reprods. websites. ABDO/Core Library. 2013. PLB $32.79; ebook $32.79; pap. $15.64.
Gr 3-6 –This series focuses on the building blocks of the United States. Five chapters in each book describe causes, pivotal moments, and turning points of important events. Viewpoints from opposing sides are offered as well. Information is presented in a succinct, age-appropriate style. “Straight to the Source” sections highlight primary-source documents: an excerpt from the Declaration of Independence, an excerpt from Benjamin Franklin’s speech to the Constitutional Convention, and so on. “Explore Online” text boxes challenge readers to think critically about what they’re learning. Illustrations consist of maps, period reproductions, and full-color stock photographs. Because the books cover a relatively small span of years, some content overlaps. The links listed in the back of each volume provide access to “routinely monitored” websites and a website where teachers and students can find supplemental information and ideas for activities. These titles are CCSS and report-writer friendly.

HAMILTON , John. The American Revolution: The Road to War . maps. ISBN 978-1-61783-678-7; ISBN 978-1-61480-626-4.
––––. Early Battles of the American Revolution. maps. ISBN 978-1-61783-679-4; ISBN 978-1-61480-627-1. LC 2012945991.
––––. Final Years of the American Revolution. maps. ISBN 978-1-61783-680-0; ISBN 978-1-61480-628-8. LC 2012945997.
––––. Leaders & Generals of the American Revolution. ISBN 978-1-61783-681-7; ISBN 978-1-61480-629-5. LC 2012945972.
––––. Turning Points of the American Revolution. maps. ISBN 978-1-61783-682-4; ISBN 978-1-61480-630-1. LC 2012945984.
––––. Weapons of the American Revolution. ISBN 978-1-61783-683-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-631-8. LC 2012945985.
ea vol: 32p. (American Revolution Series). chron. glossary. index. photos. reprods. ABDO. 2013. PLB $27.07; ebook $27.07.
Gr 6-8–Events are presented in a straightforward style that still manages to convey the author’s enthusiasm for the subject. Readers are immersed in the time period; facts and figures abound. Details include battle-by-battle statistics (the number of soldiers deployed, casualties, etc.) for both the Patriots and the British. Military strategy is also discussed. Leaders and Weapons are the strongest titles. Leaders is a showcase of movers and shakers from both sides of the war, highlighting figures such as “Mad Anthony” Wayne, who while influential, receives little coverage in books for youth. Weapons covers a topic that is of great appeal to many readers. Period painting reproductions, maps, and clear photographs (many of modern-day re-enactors) make this series appealing. Given the abundance of facts, it’s disappointing that sources are not cited.

All of these series dovetail with core curriculum standards. Cherry Lake’s “Social Studies Explorer: It’s Cool to Learn About American Waterways” delivers a solid introduction to American rivers, bays, etc., and encourages young people to care for their natural heritage. Furthermore, it gives them a lens through which to view the politics, social mores, and economics that shaped the early years of the American story. The integration of primary-source documents in ABDO’s “Foundations of Our Nation” encourages children to immerse themselves in first-hand accounts that reflect period values and linguistic styles. The riveting details about the harshness of daily life in Gareth Stevens’s “What You Didn’t Know About History” provides readers with revelatory perspective. The logical progression of cause and event in ABDO’s “American Revolution” encourages students to think critically about the roots of modern-day American society and the consequences of collective decision making.

Preschool-Grade 4

BAXTER , Roberta. States of Matter in the Real World. charts. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-745-6; ISBN 978-1-61480-836-7; ISBN 978-1-61783-795-1. LC 2012946823.
CARMICHAEL , L. E. The Scientific Method in the Real World. chart. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-743-2; ISBN 978-1-61480-834-3; ISBN 978-1-61783-793-7. LC 2012946795.
EBOCH , Chris. Magnets in the Real World. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-742-5; ISBN 978-1-61480-833-6; ISBN 978-1-61783-792-0. LC 2012946802.
KOONTZ , Robin. Light in the Real World. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-741-8; ISBN 978-1-61480-832-9; ISBN 978-1-61783-791-3. LC 2012946820.
MILIOS , Rita. Sound in the Real World. charts. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-744-9; ISBN 978-1-61480-835-0; ISBN 978-1-61783-794-4. LC 2012946821.
MULDOON , Kathleen M. Forces and Motion in the Real World. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-740-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-831-2; ISBN 978-1-61783-790-6. LC 2012946819.
WARD , Sarah E. Electricity in the Real World. charts. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-738-8; ISBN 978-1-61480-829-9; ISBN 978-1-61783-788-3. LC 2012946827.
ZUCHORA-WALSKE , Christine. Energy in the Real World. charts. ISBN 978-1-61783-739-5; ISBN 978-1-61480-830-5; ISBN 978-1-61783-789-0. LC 2012946828.
ea vol: 48p. (Science in the Real World Series). chron. diags. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. ABDO/Core Library. 2013. PLB $32.79; ebook $32.79; pap. $15.64.
Gr 3-5–Finely tuned to the needs and methods of a CCSS-based curriculum, these explanations of some aspect of the physical world intersperse a main text with recaps and review or study questions every few pages. All the titles close not only with leads to somewhat more detailed resources, but also several open-ended concepts for consideration and suggestions for enhancement activities. The narratives are divided into easily manageable sections, and the clean design incorporates informative, crisply reproduced, captioned photos; reproductions; diagrams; and graphics. Sidebars often include short but substantial passages from primary-source documents with the requisite analytical glosses and questions to test comprehension. The volume on the history and uses (in and outside the lab) of the scientific method are particularly valuable.

BERNE , Emma Carlson. Bright!: Light Energy. ISBN 978-1-4488-9649-3; ISBN 978-1-4488-9888-6. LC 2012020045.
––––. Hot!: Heat Energy. ISBN 978-1-4488-9647-9; ISBN 978-1-4488-9886-2. LC 2012017917.
––––. Loud!: Sound Energy. ISBN 978-1-4488-9648-6; ISBN 978-1-4488-9887-9. LC2012019921.
––––. Shocking!: Electricity. ISBN 978-1-4488-9650-9; ISBN 978-1-4488-9889-3. LC 2012021117.
––––. Speeding!: Mechanical Energy. ISBN 978-1-4488-9651-6; ISBN 978-1-4488-9890-9. LC 2012022319.
––––. Transforming!: Chemical Energy. ISBN 978-1-4488-9652-3; 978-1-4488-9891-3 LC 2012022947.
ea vol: 24p. (Energy Everywhere Series). glossary. index. photos. websites. Rosen/PowerKids Pr. 2013. PLB $22.60; ebook $22.60.
Gr 3-4–Though presenting broad concepts well enough, these introductions to different kinds of energy are, at best, unsystematic when it comes to details. For instance, though the author explains in Heat just what BTUs measure, in Electricity she mentions amperes, volts, and watts without specifically defining their differences. Furthermore, readers may be more confused than enlightened by statements such as this one in Chemical: “A carrot is an example of chemical energy stored in plants.” Captioned color and black-and-white photos illustrate the texts, and side boxes contain information on pioneering scientists such as James Joule and Nikola Tesla as well as additional facts. The glossaries and indexes are more scattershot than useful.

BRAUN , Eric. Let’s Rock!: Science Adventures with Rudie the Origami Dinosaur. ISBN 978-1-4048-7971-3; ISBN 978-1-4048-8068-9. LC 2012029512.
––––. Plant Parts Smarts: Science Adventures with Charlie the Origami Bee. ISBN 978-1-4048-7970-6; 978-1-4048-8072-6. LC 2012029514.
TROUPE , Thomas Kingsley. Diggin’ Dirt: Science Adventures with Kitanai the Origami Dog. ISBN 978-1-4048-7969-0; ISBN 978-1-4048-8066-5. LC 2012029511.
––––. Magnet Power!: Science Adventures with MAG-3000 the Origami Robot. ISBN 978-1-4048-7972-0; ISBN 978-1-4048-8070-2. LC 2012029513.
ea vol: illus. by Jamey Christoph. 24p. (Origami Science Adventures Series). further reading. glossary. index. websites. Picture Window. 2013. PLB $26.65; pap. $5.95.
Gr 1-3–In each of these thinly disguised lectures, a newly folded origami dog, robot, bee, or dinosaur has an informative conversation about a science topic with an animate item or a living creature. Each figure has a distinct personality, so the give-and-take is as entertaining as the art.  Except for Magnet and Plant, the origami exercises are a flub–the folding directions at the end of the other two titles do not create the models shown in the lively collage illustrations, but rather even simpler, more abstract versions. Young readers will get to gander at three types of rocks with dinosaur Rudie, learn about soil components with dog Kitanai, get an overview of plant parts with bee Charlie, and glimpse at some of the technological uses of magnets with robot MAG-3000. This set is certainly unusual enough in presentation to have some appeal as a change of pace, and a link in each volume to more information on a dedicated publisher’s website will appeal to young researchers whose curiosity has been piqued.

BYRNE , Eileen. Electricity for the Future. reprods. ISBN 978-1-4339-8394-8; ISBN 978-1-4339-8397-9. LC 2012020374.
MCWILLIAMS , Eileen. Pioneers of Electricity. chron. reprods. ISBN 978-1-4339-8412-9; ISBN 978-1-4339-8411-2. LC 2012031461.
SHEA , C. O. Conductors and Insulators. reprods. ISBN 978-1-4339-8389-4; ISBN 978-1-4339-8392-4. LC 2012019597.
VAIL , Grace. Motors and Generators. reprods. ISBN 978-1-4339-8404-4; ISBN 978-1-4339-8407-5. LC 2012023549.
WEINGARTEN , Ethan. What Is a Circuit? reprods. ISBN 978-1-4339-8414-3; ISBN 978-1-4339-8417-4. LC 2012031420.
WILSON , Roman. How Does a Battery Work? ISBN 978-1-4339-8399-3; ISBN 978-1-4339-8402-0. LC 2012020694.
ea vol: 24p. (Electrified! Series). diags. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Gareth Stevens. 2013. PLB $22.60; ebook $22.60.
Gr 2-3–Shocking in topic if not treatment, these serviceable introductions explain how electricity is generated, stored, and transported. Staid color photos of wires, circuit boards, and, occasionally, children using games or other electronic gear are combined with simply phrased but equally dry texts. “Power Fact!” text boxes (usually one per spread), reproductions, and diagrams are also included. The level of detail is high enough to contain, for instance, clear definitions of “anode,” “cathode,” and “electrolyte” in Battery, and (aside from a photo in the same volume that mislabels a rechargeable battery as an alkaline one), the information is accurately presented. Though there are no project ideas or research questions, the resources in each volume’s back matter are audience appropriate. Future is a useful broad survey of alternate energy sources, and Pioneers offers a good historical overview of our evolving understanding of just what electricity is and does.

GREGORY , Helen. Healthy Eating. ISBN 978-1-4765-0036-2. LC 2011023094.
––––. Pushes and Pulls. ISBN 978-1-4765-0039-3. LC 2011023297.
MOORE , Elizabeth. Looking at Rocks. ISBN 978-1-4765-0037-9. LC 2011023097.
––––. Oceans. ISBN 978-1-4765-0038-6. LC 2011033666.
ea vol: 24p. (Wonder Readers Next Steps: Science Series). glossary. index. photos. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $21.99.
K-Gr 1–Uniformly sized to fit small hands but massively divergent in breadth of topic, these primers pair easy-to-comprehend color photos, one per page, with simple descriptive captions of one-to-three short sentences. Oceans is, inevitably, ridiculously superficial, and at the opposite extreme Pulls takes on such a narrow concept that it waxes redundant. The other two titles offer a somewhat better balance between length and content, though in Eating readers are confusingly urged that, “You should eat food from all of the food groups every day” after being informed that “Oils are not a food group, but you need some every day” on a page that features a photo of butter, cake, candies, and a donut. Each volume ends with a suggestion for a doable enrichment activity.

HAWKINS , Jay. Bright Ideas: The Science of Light. ISBN 978-1-4777-0320-5; ISBN 978-1-4777-0390-8.
––––. Hot Stuff: The Science of Heat and Cold. ISBN 978-1-4777-0321-2; ISBN 978-1-4777-0391-5.
––––. It’s Alive!: The Science of Plants and Living Things. ISBN 978-1-4777-0322-9; ISBN 978-1-4777-0392-2.
––––. Material World: The Science of Matter. ISBN 978-1-4777-0323-6; ISBN 978-1-4777-0393-9.
––––. Push and Pull: The Science of Forces. ISBN 978-1-4777-0324-3; ISBN 978-1-4777-0394-6.
––––. Super Sonic: The Science of Sound. ISBN 978-1-4777-0325-0; ISBN 978-1-4777-0395-3.
ea vol: illus. by Andrew Painter. 32p. (Big Bang Science Experiments Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Windmill. 2013. PLB $26.50; ebook $26.50.
Gr 3-4–Each volume in this misleadingly titled series offers 10 low-tech science activities, none of which will produce more than a small-scale pop, ooze, or mess. The projects are arranged in random order, varying widely in complexity, and occasionally two are confusingly jammed together on the same spread. Most are simple enough to create but some, such as one that requires holding a water balloon over a candle and another that asks students to interweave the pages of two old phone books aren’t well suited for the intended audience. Color photos illustrate the step-by-step instructions, and the goofy cartoon characters are scattered about the cluttered pages. Furthermore, even adult helpers may have difficulty finding “mirrored cardboard” for one experiment or cutting a table-tennis ball in half for another. Every book concludes with an excellent resource list.

HERRINGTON , Lisa M. Beans to Chocolate. ISBN 978-0-531-24741-9; ISBN 978-0-531-24707-5.
––––. Milk to Ice Cream. ISBN 978-0-531-24742-6; ISBN 978-0-531-24708-2.
––––. Tomatoes to Ketchup. ISBN 978-0-531-24743-3; ISBN 978-0-531-24709-9.
––––. Trees to Paper. ISBN 978-0-531-24744-0; ISBN 978-0-531-24710-5.
ea vol: 32p. (Rookie Read: About Science Series). glossary. index. photos. websites. Children’s Press. 2013. PLB $23; pap. $5.95.
K-Gr 2 –Carefully avoiding any references to specific brands, these engaging introductions follow common products from farm (or forest) through each major manufacturing step. One-to-five sentence-long explanations (e.g., “Milk is needed to make ice cream. Milk comes from cows.”) accompany the bright, full-page or larger, captioned color photos. Challenging vocabulary words are set apart in bold fonts and defined in the glossaries, which also contain pronunciation guides. “Fun Fact!” text boxes contain interesting asides, such as “Americans use about three bottles of ketchup per person each year.” The level of detail is well suited to new readers, and each stage is recapped in a chart at the end of every volume. More information is available on a dedicated page on the publisher’s website.

JEMISON , Mae & Dana Meachen Rau . Discovering New Planets. illus. ISBN 978-0-531-25503-2; ISBN 978-0-531-24063-2. LC 2012035762.
––––. Exploring Our Sun. illus. ISBN 978-0-531-25502-5; ISBN 978-0-531-24062-5. LC 2012035788.
––––. Journey Through Our Solar System. illus. reprods. ISBN 978-0-531-25501-8; ISBN 978-0-531-24061-8. LC 2012035789.
––––. The 100 Year Starship. reprods. ISBN 978-0-531-25500-1; ISBN 978-0-531-24060-1. LC 2012035761.
ea vol: 48p. (A True Book: Dr. Mae Jemison and 100 Year Starship Series). chron. diags. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Children’s Press. 2013. PLB $29; pap. $6.95.
Gr 3-5–These titles offer properly tantalizing surveys of our local stellar neighborhood and its ongoing exploration. “The 100 Year Starship” initiative aims “to investigate, research, and prepare for humans to travel beyond our solar system to other stars.” Each volume opens by asking readers two true or false questions, promising they’ll “find the answer in this book.” Despite handsome packaging, star-quality authors, helpful time lines, closing ”True Statistics” summaries, and resource lists with online extensions, the information is readily available in existing sets. The illustrations feature an undifferentiated mix of photos and speculative paintings, and the texts contain moot claims, such as that the Big Bang began with a particle and that atoms “are the tiniest forms of matter.” The unbalanced focus on the U.S.’s space program and probes means that astronauts from Russia and China are mentioned only briefly and creates a misleading impression that NASA has been the whole show.

LAWRENCE , Ellen. Color. ISBN 978-1-61772-738-2; ISBN 978-1-61772-786-3. LC 2012050812.
––––. Dirt. ISBN 978-1-61772-737-5; ISBN 978-1-61772-787-0.
––––. Motion. ISBN 978-1-61772-739-9; ISBN 978-1-61772-788-7. LC 2012049188 .
OWEN , Ruth. Water. ISBN 978-1-61772-736-8; ISBN 978-1-61772-789-4.
ea vol: 24p. (Fun-damental Experiments Series). further reading. glossary. illus. index. photos. websites. Bearport. 2013. PLB $23.93; ebook $23.93.
K-Gr 3–Arranged, roughly, in order of complexity, the demonstrations in these volumes are also clearly laid out, with simply phrased directions matched to clear color photos or photorealistic images followed by questions about what young experimenters have observed (e.g., “Which push made the ball travel farthest–a roll, a throw, or a kick?”). Cartoonlike figures help elucidate the steps. Each volume closes with explanations of expected results and suggestions (with more questions) for related activities, plus brief glossaries (that contain pronunciation guides) and an up-to-date resource list. Though there are just seven projects per volume, some–such as Dirt’s leadoff, which asks children to list the ingredients in a shaken jar of soil and water–are more challenging than they seem. By and large, this set offers informative, easy-to-achieve insights into selected principles of physics and chemistry.

METZ , Lorijo. Using Beakers and Graduated Cylinders. ISBN 978-1-4488-9685-1; ISBN 978-1-4488-9924-1. LC 2012029011.
––––. Using Clocks and Stopwatches. ISBN 978-1-4488-9689-9; ISBN 978-1-4488-9928-9. LC 2012033063.
––––. Using Hand Lenses and Microscopes. ISBN 978-1-4488-9687-5; ISBN 978-1-4488-9926-5. LC 2012030675.
––––. Using Rulers and Tape Measures. ISBN 978-1-4488-9688-2; ISBN 978-1-4488-9927-2. LC 2012032008.
––––. Using Scales and Balances. ISBN 978-1-4488-9686-8; ISBN 978-1-4488-9925-8. LC 2012029968.
––––. Using Thermometers. reprods. ISBN 978-1-4488-9684-4; ISBN 978-1-4488-9923-4. LC 2012027661.
ea vol: 24p. (Science Tools Series). diags. glossary. index. photos. websites. Rosen/PowerKids Pr. 2013. PLB $22.60; ebook $22.60.
Gr 2-4 –Along with offering outstandingly clear explanations of how common scientific instruments work, these introductions supply exciting suggestions for hands-on projects and experiments, from comparing the densities of difference kinds of foods in the kitchen to keeping a temperature log. Various scales of measurement and useful terms such as “meniscus” are carefully defined, and features  such as instructions for preparing slides in Microscope and spreads defining the systematic techniques of the Scientific Method and the work of scientists add value to the set as a whole. Diagrams clarify and complement the text while the color photos of target-age children (sporting safety goggles where appropriate) enthusiastically enjoying science provide further incentive to observe physics, chemistry, and biology in action.

PORTMAN , Michael. Are There Other Earths? ISBN 978-1-4339-8257-6; ISBN 978-1-4339-8260-6. LC 2012019207.
––––. Are UFOs Real? ISBN 978-1-4339-8262-0; ISBN 978-1-4339-8265-1. LC 2012020882.
––––. Could an Asteroid Harm Earth? ISBN 978-1-4339-8267-5; ISBN 978-1-4339-8270-5. LC 2012022060.
––––. Is There Life on Mars? ISBN 978-1-4339-8272-9; ISBN 978-1-4339-8275-0. LC 2012027588.
––––. Where Did the Moon Come From? reprods. ISBN 978-1-4339-8277-4; ISBN 978-1-4339-8280-4. LC 2012031293.
––––. Why Isn’t Pluto a Planet? diags. ISBN 978-1-4339-8282-8; ISBN 978-1-4339-8285-9. LC 2012031421.
ea vol: 32p. (Space Mysteries Series). charts. further reading. glossary. illus. index. photos. websites. Gareth Stevens. 2013. PLB $25.25; ebook $25.25.
Gr 2-4–These quick surveys infuse high-interest topics with enough drama to draw casual browsers. The account of Pluto’s demotion may be an exception, as it was accomplished not by fiery violence or a huge explosion but by the votes of members of the International Astronomical Union. UFOs, in contrast, has plenty of suspense, but the result is an uncritical, sensationalistic account of prominent sightings complete with a “You Decide!” closing. The other volumes are somewhat more successful in presenting informational content in stimulating ways. “Out of This World!” sidebars throughout every title deliver bite-size facts, e.g., “In 1609, the Italian astronomer Galileo became the first person to observe Mars through a telescope.”  Aside from a science fiction magazine cover misidentified as a book of short stories in UFOs, the mix of photos, reproductions, digital composites, and speculative art supply sufficiently informative and stimulating visuals.

WALTON , Ruth. Let’s Bake a Cake. ISBN 978-1-59771-386-3. LC 2011052692.
––––. Let’s Drink Some Water. ISBN 978-1-59771-384-9. LC 2011052690.
––––. Let’s Get Dressed. ISBN 978-1-59771-383-2. LC 2011052689.
––––. Let’s Go to the Playground. ISBN 978-1-59771-388-7. LC 2011052694.
––––. Let’s Read a Book. ISBN 978-1-59771-387-0. LC 2011052693.
––––. Let’s Ride a Bike. chron. ISBN 978-1-59771-385-6. LC 2011052691.
ea vol: illus. by author. 32p. (Let’s Find Out Series). glossary. index. maps. photos. Sea-to-Sea. 2013. PLB $28.50.
Gr 1-3 –Just the tickets for inquiring young minds, these perspective-broadening introductions start with familiar activities or items and go on to examine how they work or where they come from. In Playground, for instance, a look at a slide expands into discussions of gravity and friction; and Book touches on writing, illustrating, editing, papermaking, color printing, libraries, Braille, and more. Whew! Along with big, colorful photos or photo-collage illustrations, these volumes are enhanced by extensive glossaries and features ranging from quizzes and science activities to a tempting recipe for chocolate cake. The energetic designs are cheerful and inviting.

Grades 5 & Up

BINGHAM , Jane. The Bermuda Triangle. maps. ISBN 978-1-4109-4986-8; ISBN 978-1-4109-4991-2. LC 2012012694.
––––. Crop Circles. ISBN 978-1-4109-4988-2; ISBN 978-1-4109-4993-6. LC 2012012697.
HILE , Lori. The Loch Ness Monster. ISBN 978-1-4109-4987-5; ISBN 978-1-4109-4992-9. LC 2012012695.
––––. Mermaids. reprods. ISBN 978-1-4109-4989-9; ISBN 978-1-4109-4994-3. LC 2012012738.
ea vol: 48p. (Solving Mysteries with Science Series). chron. diags. further reading. glossary. illus. index. photos. websites. Raintree. 2013. PLB $31.43; pap. $8.99.
Gr 4-6–Solving nothing and providing precious little hard science, these expeditions into the land of woo offer gatherings of unsourced anecdotes and speculative references to possible causes of supernatural phenomena, from weather or physical forces to gravity waves, aliens, or outright hoaxes. The texts are interspersed with atmospheric photos, illustrations, maps, and reproductions. Each volume contains a diagram of the scientific method and final spreads with lengthy time lines and “Summing Up the Science” sections, among other back matter. Despite the overall skeptical tone and frequent invitations for readers to weigh the “evidence,” children are not supplied with the tools to reach rational conclusions.

ABDO’s “Science in the Real World” provides the most complete Common Core toolkits, while both Sea-to-Sea’s “Let’s Find Out” and PowerKids’s “Science Tools” offer distinctive angles on topics that are not frequently covered, as well as lively presentations and high production values. The connections made in Children’s Press’s “Rookie Read: About Science” between familiar items and their manufacture should be of particular interest to younger readers, and hands-on learners will find stimulating challenges aplenty in Bearport’s “Fun-damental Experiments.” Individual volumes in other series are well worth considering to fill holes in collections.

In the spirit of Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” campaign, these sports and exercise-related books encourage children to keep active and avoid obesity. Students will find inspiration in titles about their favorite teams, players, competitions, or forms of exercise. Whether they deliver information about dance, martial arts, bike riding, or organized sports such as baseball or basketball, many of the sets cover topics that youngsters will enjoy reading about and action photos that they’ll love to linger over.

Preschool-Grade 4

GILBERT , Sara. Boston Red Sox. ISBN 978-1-60818-260-2. LC 2011051187.
––––. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. ISBN 978-1-60818-265-7. LC 2011051184.
––––. New York Yankees. ISBN 978-1-60818-269-5. LC 2012004263.
––––. St. Louis Cardinals. ISBN 978-1-60818-271-8. LC 2012004265.
ea vol: 24p. (World Series Champions Series). chron. glossary. index. photos. websites. Creative Education. 2013. PLB $25.65.
Gr 2-4–Focusing on the baseball organizations that have played in the World Series, these titles provide chronologically organized information about the featured teams. Key players are introduced in a few sentences. Some unique features of the set are the chapters on how each team got its name. Fans will be disappointed to see that in the sections about each team’s stadium, the spread-size photos do not always depict a full scene or the park at all. Red Sox, for example, presents only a corner of the famous Fenway Park; Yankee and Cardinals show helicopter views of each team’s city, but not the stadiums themselves. Otherwise, the photos are interesting and full of action. Young fans who want to relish the particulars will only want to read the book that represents their favorite team.

HOBLIN , Paul. Amazing Basketball. ISBN 978-1-61-473402-4. LC 2012946497.
––––. Amazing Football Records. ISBN 978-1-61-473403-1. LC 2012946498.
––––. Amazing Olympic Records. ISBN 978-1-61-473405-5. LC 2012946500.
HOWELL , Brian. Amazing Auto Racing Records. ISBN 978-1-61-473400-0. LC 2012946495.
––––. Amazing Baseball Records. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61-473401-7. LC 2012946496.
––––. Amazing Hockey Records. ISBN 978-1-61-473404-8. LC 2012946499.
ea vol: 32p. (Amazing Sports Records Series). charts. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. The Child’s World. 2013. PLB $27.07.
Gr 3-5–Each book begins with a brief history of its featured competition or sport before launching into a random selection of feats. For example, Olympic highlights the “Oldest Olympic Swimming Medalists” (Dara Torres and William Robinson) as well as “Most Summer Olympic Medals” (Michael Phelps). Numerous competitors are given sufficient attention; report writers will appreciate this set over Raintree’s all-too-brief “Fantastic Sports Facts.” Large, attractive, captioned, color and black-and-white photographs and reproductions are surrounded by sidebars of trivia on each spread. Even though the nature of the set’s content will quickly date it (records are broken all the time), this series could be used to prompt conversation and/or further research. Select individual titles for sports that need representation in a collection.

HURLEY , Michael. Baseball. ISBN 978-1-4109-5107-6; ISBN 978-1-4109-5114-4.
––––. Basketball. ISBN 978-1-4109-5104-5; ISBN 978-1-4109-5111-3.
––––. Football. ISBN 978-1-4109-5108-3; ISBN 978-1-4109-5115-1.
––––. Ice Hockey. ISBN 978-1-4109-5106-9; ISBN 978-1-4109-5113-7.
––––. Racing. ISBN 978-1-4109-5105-2; ISBN 978-1-4109-5112-0.
––––. Soccer. illus. ISBN 978-1-4109-5103-8; ISBN 978-1-4109-5110-6.
ea vol: 32p. (Fantastic Sports Facts Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Raintree. 2013. PLB $29.32; pap. $7.99.
Gr 2-4–Hurley offers scattershot accounts of record-breaking trivia. Colorful photographs are of various sizes and shapes, creating a browsing or skimming effect to the facts. There is a six-question quiz as the final chapter. The statement at the conclusion of every book is: “Some of the answers can be found in this book, but you may have to find some yourself.” Only avid fans of the sport will want to glance at this random collection of facts. Disappointing.

MAURER , Tracy Nelson. Go-Kart Racing. ISBN 978-1-4296-9998-3. LC 2012033230.
––––. Stock Car Racing. ISBN 978-1-4296-9997-6. LC 2012033232.
POLYDOROS , Lori. Drag Racing. ISBN 978-1-4296-9996-9. LC 2012028360.
––––. Indy Car Racing. ISBN 978-1-4296-9995-2. LC 2012028359.
ea vol: 32p. (Blazers: Super Speed Series). diags. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $25.99.
Gr 3-5–Each book covers safety features and racing rules; prominent figures are only briefly mentioned, if at all. Sometimes the titles introduce science principles, such as Go-Kart, which touches on “wind resistance.” The color photos are large and numerous; one special feature of each volume is the first-rate, two-page, labeled photo diagram of each vehicle. Readers will find the large font and sentence structure simple and direct. Words are highlighted in bold, colored font for easy referral to the glossary, but they are also defined at the bottom of the pages. “Fast Fact” text boxes contain trivia and safety facts. This series is exciting and approachable enough to interest reluctant readers and ESL students.

ROYSTON , Angela. Ballet. ISBN 978-1-4109-4920-2; ISBN 978-1-4109-4925-7. LC 2012019128.
––––. Ballroom. ISBN 978-1-4109-4921-9; ISBN 978-1-4109-4926-4. LC 2012019139.
––––. Hip-Hop. ISBN 978-1-4109-4922-6; ISBN 978-1-4109-4927-1. LC 2012019141.
––––. Tap. ISBN 978-1-4109-4923-3; ISBN 978-1-4109-4928-8. LC 2012019143.
ea vol: 32p. (Love to Dance Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Raintree. 2013. PLB $29.32; pap. $7.99.
Gr 2-4–This series brings various forms of dance to life with a large-font text and simple sentences. Every book provides a short survey that includes information about popular stars, techniques, specific clothing or shoes, and moves that readers can try. Each volume ends with encouragement for aspiring dancers to “Give It a Try!” While this series is not as detailed as Lerner’s “On the Radar: Dance” (2011), which is for older students, the coverage is rewarding for younger children. The series will bring new meaning to words that readers may have heard (“quickstep,” “Lindy Hop,” “freeze,” etc.), but not fully understood. Vocabulary words are highlighted and often defined in the text as well as the glossaries. Bright photographs add drama to the pages. Suitable for ESL learners.

TIECK , Sarah. Biking. ISBN 978-1-61783-560-5; ISBN 978-1-61480-707-0. LC 2012023908.
––––. Dancing. ISBN 978-1-61783-561-2; ISBN 978-1-61480-708-7. LC 2012025989.
––––. Hiking. ISBN 978-1-61783-562-9; ISBN 978-1-61480-709-4. LC 2012032934.
––––. Skateboarding. ISBN 978-1-61783-563-6; ISBN 978-1-61480-710-0. LC 2012032932.
––––. Swimming. ISBN 978-1-61783-564-3; ISBN 978-1-61480-711-7. LC 2012025968.
––––. Yoga. ISBN 978-1-61783-565-0; ISBN 978-1-61480-712-4. LC 2012032933.
ea vol: 32p. (Move Your Body: A Kid’s Guide to Fitness Series). diags. glossary. index. photos. websites. ABDO. 2013. PLB $27.07; ebook $27.07.
Gr 2-4–These books promote a variety of sports to encourage readers to exercise. Unfortunately, the approach is cursory at best. For example, in Dancing, there are no details about types of dances or techniques. Students should turn to Raintree’s “Love to Dance” series for more specifics on this activity. Many of the same words and definitions are repeated throughout the volumes, such as “muscle,” “energy,” and “flexible.” The set as a whole focuses more on fitness than on specific sports. In addition, many of the same facts are duplicated in the final “Healthy Body Files” sections. Five out of the texts (Yoga is the exception) use the same illustration and very similar language in the “Let’s Get Physical” chapter. However, the large font and simple sentence structure will aid new readers. Colorful photographs show children participating in each sport. Select specific titles only to fill gaps in a collection.

WOOD , Alix. Aikido. chart. ISBN 978-1-4777-0315-1; ISBN 978-1-4777-0385-4. LC 2012033061.
––––. Judo. diags. ISBN 978-1-4777-0318-2; ISBN 978-1-4777-0388-5. LC 2012035220.
––––. Jujitsu. chart. ISBN 978-1-4777-0317-5; ISBN 978-1-4777-0387-8. LC 2012026856.
––––. Karate. chart. ISBN 978-1-4777-0314-4; ISBN 978-1-4777-0384-7. LC 2012020634.
––––. Kung Fu. chart. diags. ISBN 978-1-4777-0319-9; ISBN 978-1-4777-0389-2. LC 2012030865.
––––. Tae Kwon Do. chart. diags. ISBN 978-1-4777-0316-8; ISBN 978-1-4777-0386-1. LC 2012028710.
ea vol: 32p. (A Kid’s Guide to Martial Arts Series). further reading. glossary. index. maps. photos. websites. Rosen/PowerKids Pr. 2013. PLB $26.50; ebook $26.50.
Gr 3-5–Each title begins with an account of the history and equipment used and then moves into describing warm-up exercises, techniques, and styles. Most titles extend the cultural learning with charts that show how to count in the language of the country where the sport originated (for example, Korean in Tae Kwon Do), and introduce phrases with a pronunciation guide. High-energy, color photographs of various sizes move readers through the pages. Both children and adults are pictured enjoying the sport. If a more detailed look at the individual sport of karate is needed, Oliver Press’s “Karate Made Simple” (2013) would be preferred. This broad series can update an aging collection.

Grades 5 & Up

ANDERSON, Josh. Los Angeles Clippers. ISBN 978-1-61570-511-5; ISBN 978-1-61570-510-8.
––––. Miami Heat. ISBN 978-1-61570-501-6; ISBN 978-1-61570-500-9.
BERMAN , Ron. Los Angeles Lakers. ISBN 978-1-61570-503-0; ISBN 978-1-61570-502-3.
BIRLE , Pete. Chicago Bulls. ISBN 978-1-61570-505-4; ISBN 978-1-61570-504-7.
––––. Minnesota Timberwolves. ISBN 978-1-61570-507-8; ISBN 978-1-61570-506-1.
––––. San Antonio Spurs. ISBN 978-1-61570-509-2; ISBN 978-1-61570-508-5.
SKOGEN , J. M. Dallas Mavericks. ISBN 978-1-61570-513-9; ISBN 978-1-61570-512-2.
––––. Oklahoma City Thunder. ISBN 978-1-61570-515-3; ISBN 978-1-61570-514-6.
ea vol: 47p. (On the Hardwood Series). photos. MVP Books. 2013. PLB $27.93; pap. $8.95.
Gr 4-6–These titles offer histories of NBA teams, including information about changes within the franchise and well-known players. The lack of back matter limits the set’s use for report writers and classrooms trying to learn about the elements of nonfiction. However, established fans will pore over the energetic texts. For example, readers can learn about the San Antonio Spurs’s “Twin Towers,” David Robinson and Tim Duncan, and how they worked together toward a championship. Color photos (most of them action shots) illustrate the pages, and the simple, large font texts could draw in reluctant readers. News for the teams is current through 2012.

CAIN , Patrick G. BMX Street. ISBN 978-1-4677-0751-0; ISBN 978-1-4677-0999-6. LC 2012020762.
––––. BMX Vert. ISBN 978-1-4677-0750-3; ISBN 978-1-4677-1000-8. LC 2012033888.
––––. Moto X Best Trick. ISBN 978-1-4677-0752-7; ISBN 978-1-4677-1001-5. LC 2012025602.
––––. Moto X Freestyle. ISBN 978-1-4677-0753-4; ISBN 978-1-4677-1002-2. LC 2012033889.
––––. Skateboarding Street. ISBN 978-1-4677-0749-7; ISBN 978-1-4677-1003-9. LC 2012029415.
––––. Skateboarding Vert. ISBN 978-1-4677-0748-0; ISBN 978-1-4677-1004-6. LC 2012027293.
ea vol: 32p. (Extreme Summer Sports Zone Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Lerner. 2013. PLB $26.60; ebook $19.95.
Gr 4-6–Cain covers the gear and skills needed to compete in six high-interest sports and adds in a little history as well. Within these titles, there are slight shades of variation between the books about skateboarding, BMX riding, and Moto X. For example, BMX Vert explains that riders use ramps, while BMX Street describes a more rebellious attitude that riders have with respect to tricks. BMX Street explains injuries and the reason why not all riders in the photographs are using safety equipment such as helmets. The font of the main texts is tiny, and the color photos are sometimes too small to relay the adrenaline of the action-shots. Final chapters offer advice for taking skills to new levels and briefly highlight those who have become prominent in the activity. All books end on a variation of this admonishment: “Trying to copy moves shown online can be a quick way to get injured.” Volumes on these topics are published every year, and this set offers nothing new.

COHN , Jessica. Base Jumping . illus. maps. ISBN 978-1-4339-8818-9; ISBN 978-1-4339-8821-9. LC 2012037752.
––––. BMX. illus. ISBN 978-1-4339-8822-6; ISBN 978-1-4339-8825-7. LC 2012023553.
––––. Free Running. ISBN 978-1-4339-8826-4; ISBN 978-1-4339-8829-5. LC 2012037754.
––––. Mountain Climbing. ISBN 978-1-4339-8830-1; ISBN 978-1-4339-8833-2. LC 2012037837.
––––. Rodeo. maps. ISBN 978-1-4339-8838-7; ISBN 978-1-4339-8841-7. LC 2012037749.
FLOUNDERS , Anne. Road Cycling. maps. ISBN 978-1-4339-8834-9; ISBN 978-1-4339-8837-0. LC 2012037750.
ea vol: 48p. (Incredibly Insane Sports Series). charts. chron. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Gareth Stevens. 2013. PLB $31.95; ebook $31.95.
Gr 4-6–Centered around a theme of action-packed sports (some of which could be dangerous without proper precaution), these volumes draw upon science principles and introduce new vocabulary as well as information. Because many readers will not have experienced many of these sports, each title begins with a quick overview. “Test It!” text boxes mention a science principle and suggest simple experiments. For example, in Mountain Climbing, one sidebar explains how to determine the slope of a mountain using a protractor. Black-and-white photos, reproductions, and color action shots illustrate the spreads. Those that focus on language and jargon introduce popular phrases from each sport (short language quizzes help readers look for meaning in context), and final pages deliver charts and information about rick-taking stars. Children can expand their knowledge in these little-known areas by using this set. Consider purchasing if the  “Sports on the Edge!” series (Marshall Cavendish, 2011) is popular.

HAMILTON , S. L. America’s Cup. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-692-3; ISBN 978-1-61480-640-0. LC 201945702.
––––. Iditarod. maps. ISBN 978-1-61783-693-0; ISBN 978-1-61480-641-7. LC 2012945883.
––––. Indianapolis 500. ISBN 978-1-61783-694-7; ISBN 978-1-61480-642-4. LC 2012945884.
––––. Kentucky Derby. ISBN 978-1-61783-695-4; ISBN 978-1-61480-643-1. LC 201945885.
––––. Reno Air Races. diags. ISBN 978-1-61783-696-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-644-8. LC 201945703.
––––. Tour de France. maps. ISBN 978-1-61783-697-8; ISBN 978-1-61480-645-5. LC 201946021.
ea vol: 32p. (Xtreme Races Series). glossary. index. photos. ABDO. 2013. PLB $27.07; ebook $27.07.
Gr 4-6–After a short history of the individual race, the author launches into rules and traditions of the specific sport. The texts are attractively arranged around black-and-white and vibrant color photos. “Xtreme Fact” text boxes offer additional facts, e.g., “The Tour de France is also known as ‘The Big Loop.’” In each volume, a spread focuses on sports stars throughout history, and sometimes a spread is devoted to important animals or vehicles. For example, Kentucky Derby gives praise to famous horses and several jockeys; America’s Cup features well-known boats and skippers; and Iditarod praises the dogs as well as their mushers. In Tour de France, Lance Armstrong is mentioned along with the fact that “He was stripped of his wins in 2012 for drug use (doping).” Because it is difficult to find all this information gathered in one place, this set stands out and could be used for reports.

NAKASHIMA , Maiko with the Japan Karate Federation . Etiquette, Equipment, and the Dojo. vol: 1. ISBN 978-1-934545-17-1. LC 2012033028.
––––. Punching, Kicking, and Blocking. vol: 2. ISBN 978-1-934545-18-8. LC 2012033029.
––––. Practice, Sparring, and Competition. vol: 3. ISBN 978-1-934545-19-5. LC 2012033030.
––––. Karate Origins and Expansion. vol: 4. ISBN 978-1-934545-16-4. LC 2012033031 .
ea vol: 32p. (Karate Made Simple Series). charts. diags. glossary. index. photos. websites. Oliver. 2013. PLB $24.95.
Gr 4-6 –Nakashima, with the Japan Karate Federation acting as a consultant, covers four different areas of karate in detail, including information on the basics, techniques, competition, and history. Japanese vocabulary words pepper the texts, such as “rei,” “tatami,” and “dojo,” and all are defined in the glossary and pronunciation chart at the back of each book. Readers who are new to the sport will appreciate the instructions on how to wear the traditional uniform or “gi,” while intermediate participants will turn to the volume on basic forms or drills. Colorful photographs in a variety of sizes break up the texts. Instructions for exercises, training, etc. are accompanied by step-by-step photos. Both children and adults are shown performing the activities. Text boxes highlight important facts, such as codes of conduct. This set will be useful for readers or report writers who have some background knowledge but want to learn more.

Three series rate distinction. ABDO’s “Xtreme Races” is a strong overview of competitions seldom covered in children’s books. Gareth Stevens’s “Incredibly Insane Sports” grabs the interest of young readers by dramatically describing many activities that children have probably never tried or witnessed. Finally, PowerKids’s “A Kid’s Guide to Martial Arts” is an attractive survey of six forms of self-defense or popular exercises.

 With a few notable exceptions, the entriesin this mixed bag of high-tech offerings are aimed at casual readers enthralled by images of big, noisy machines–preferably the sort that carry guns and bombs. Even the most unvarnished browsing items feature indexes and resource lists, though both are likely to be ignored by most of their target audiences. In deference to the Common Core State Standards, features such as glossaries, fact boxes, and ideas for demonstrations or projects are clearly on the way to becoming equally universal.

Preschool-Grade 4

BETHEA , Nikole Brooks. Engineering an Awesome Recycling Center with Max Axiom, Super Scientist. illus. by Pop Art Studios. ISBN 978-1-4296-9934-1; ISBN 978-1-62065-699-0. LC 2012026438.
BISKUP , Agnieszka. The Amazing Work of Scientists with Max Axiom, Super Scientist. illus. by Marcelo Baez. ISBN 978-1-4296-9936-5; ISBN 978-1-62065-701-0. LC 2012028442.
––––. The Incredible Work of Engineers with Max Axiom, Super Scientist. illus. by Marcelo Baez. ISBN 978-1-4296-9937-2; ISBN 978-1-62065-705-8. LC 2012026439.
ENZ , Tammy. Engineering a Totally Rad Skateboard with Max Axiom, Super Scientist. illus. by Pop Art Studios. ISBN 978-1-4296-9935-8; ISBN 978-1-62065-703-4. LC 2012026437.
ea vol: 32p. (Graphic Library: Graphic Science and Engineering in Action Series). further reading. glossary. index. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $29.99; pap. $7.95.
Gr 2-4–Max Axiom, the supercharged scientist of series past, moves from the natural world into the realm of high-tech (mostly) in this graphic novel-style STEM-focused subset. In Scientists and in Engineers he puts together teams for, respectively, a science fair and a lunar colony by zipping from the International Space Station to the ocean’s bottom for quick interviews with a range of STEM specialists. The other two volumes are more process oriented, following each stage in the design and construction of a super skateboard and a large recycling facility. Sidebars clarify and expand upon information presented in the narratives. Enhanced by their visual format, resource lists, and closing spreads containing historical background notes and additional information, these volumes offer stimulating glances at their topics.

BOOTHROYD , Jennifer. How Do Helicopters Work? ISBN 978-0-7613-8966-8; ISBN 978-1-4677-1006-0. LC 2012019112.
––––. How Do Parachutes Work. ISBN 978-0-7613-8968-2; ISBN 978-1-4677-1009-1. LC 2012020003.
SILVERMAN , Buffy. How Do Hang Gliders Work? ISBN 978-0-7613-8970-5; ISBN 978-1-4677-1005-3. LC 2012020001.
––––. How Do Hot Air Balloons Work? ISBN 978-0-7613-8969-9; ISBN 978-1-4677-1007-7. LC 2012010394.
––––. How Do Jets Work? ISBN 978-0-7613-8967-5; ISBN 9781-4677-1008-4. LC 2012013839.
––––. How Do Space Vehicles Work? ISBN 978-0-7613-8971-2; ISBN 978-1-4677-1010-7. LC 2012019111.
ea vol: 32p. (Lightning Bolt Books: How Flight Works Series). diags. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Lerner. 2013. PLB $25.26; ebook $18.95.
K-Gr 2–Though narrow of topic, these introductions combine plenty of big, bright color photos with explanatory texts that, for all their brevity, will give new readers healthy doses of specific information. Hang Gliders, for instance, offers not only a tally of the required gear but also covers techniques for steering, changing speeds, and landing safely. Both the narratives and images feature men and women in roughly equal numbers–and, even more laudably, Space Vehicles highlights a Russian Soyuz and its launch vehicle rather than now-obsolete American spacecraft, though the Hubble Space Telescope does make a cameo. Each volume ends with a labeled diagram, a page of “Fun Facts,” and a list of print and Web resources.

COLSON , Rob. Helicopters. ISBN 978-1-4777-0065-5; ISBN 978-1-4777-0164-5. LC 2012020309.
––––. Motorbikes. ISBN 978-1-4777-0066-2; ISBN 978-1-4777-0165-2. LC 2012021179.
––––. Tanks and Military Vehicles. ISBN 978-1-4777-0067-9; ISBN 978-1-4777-0166-9. LC 2012021180.
––––. Trucks. ISBN 978-1-4777-0068-6; ISBN 978-1-4777-0167-6. LC 2012021663 .
––––. Warships. reprods. ISBN 978-1-4777-0064-8; ISBN 978-1-4777-0163-8. LC 2012021664.
ea vol: 24p. (Ultimate Machines Series). chart. glossary. index. photos. websites. Rosen/PowerKids Pr. 2013. PLB $22.60; ebook $22.60.
Gr 3-5–Standard fodder for casual browsers and enthusiasts, these surveys offer a mix of color photos and bite-sized comments or technical specs in a variety of type sizes. Each volume highlights seven specific models of the featured vehicle of the past or present (for example, Warships contains spreads on ironclads, aircraft carriers, and submarines, among others) and contains quick glimpses at specialized variations or machines with related functions or characteristics. Every title closes with a table of recapped data and a Web link that leads to a dedicated page of online resources on the publisher’s website. High on interest level, low on new content or approach.

FOREST , Christopher. Robot Competitions. ISBN 978-1-4296-9920-4; ISBN 978-1-62065-782-9. LC 2012026442.
MOSS , Jenny. How Robots Work. ISBN 978-1-4296-9919-8; ISBN 978-1-62065-780-5. LC 2012026441.
O’HEARN , Michael. Awesome Space Robots. illus. ISBN 978-1-4296-9918-1; ISBN 978-1-62065-778-2. LC 2012033234.
PRICE , Sean Stewart. Amazing Military Robots. ISBN 978-1-4296-9917-4; ISBN 978-1-62065-776-8. LC 2012033233.
ea vol: 32p. (Edge Books: Robots Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $27.32; pap. $7.95.
Gr 3-4–Focusing on high-interest topics, these cleanly laid out volumes will fill readers in on the past and present basics of robot design, structure, and function. Competitions covers the range of formal contests, from mock rescues to wild and destructive BattleBots frenzies. With a mention of the Curiosity rover’s Mars landing, Space Robots updates the information found in Christopher Forest’s otherwise similar Robots in Space (Capstone, 2012), and Amazing Military Robots is a cut above Barbara Alpert’s Military Robots (Capstone, 2012) in coverage and reading level. Sidebars with interesting facts (e.g., “Some self-guided robots guard national borders, military bases, and nuclear waste sites”) and the clear, color photos of the machines in action may attract browsers and/or robotics enthusiasts.

HARASYMIW , Mark. Military Helicopters. ISBN 978-1-4339-8467-9; ISBN 978-1-4339-8470-9. LC 2012028334.
NAGELHOUT , Ryan. Drones. ISBN 978-1-4339-8457-0; ISBN 978-1-4339-8460-0. LC 2012020378.
NELSON , Drew. Armored Vehicles. ISBN 978-1-4339-8452-5; ISBN 978-1-4339-8455-6. LC 2012021809.
––––. Submarines and Submersibles. ISBN 978-1-4339-8477-8; ISBN 978-1-4339-8480-8. LC 2012023051.
PORTMAN , Michael. Fighter Jets. ISBN 978-1-4339-8462-4; ISBN 978-1-4339-8465-5. LC 2012024375.
SHEA , Therese. Spy Planes. ISBN 978-1-4339-8472-3; ISBN 978-1-4339-8475-4. LC 2012031289.
ea vol: 32p. (Military Machines Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Gareth Stevens. 2013. PLB $26.60; ebook $26.60.
Gr 3-5–These volumes offer glimpses of the past, present, and future of various types of military vehicles. Some are written as general overviews; others focus on particular experimental or production models as examples. Though the connected narratives create more context for their chosen subjects than corresponding volumes in other, more browser-oriented series, the generalities here are not leavened with enough specific facts and statistics to keep confirmed fans interested. Overall, the reproductions and color and archival black-and-white photos are bland and not sharply reproduced.

PARRISH , Margaret. Boats. ISBN 978-1-84898-618-3. LC 2012006074.
––––. Fast Cars. ISBN 978-1-84898-622-0. LC 2012006077.
––––. Planes. ISBN 978-1-84898-619-0. LC 2012006076.
––––. Rescue Vehicles. ISBN 978-1-84898-620-6. LC 2012006077.
––––. Superbikes. ISBN 978-1-84898-621-3. LC 2012006077.
––––. Trucks and Diggers. ISBN 978-1-84898-623-7. LC 2012006080.
ea vol: 32p. (Wild Rides Series). glossary. index. photos. New Forest. 2013. PLB $28.50.
Gr 2-5–In each of these unabashed browsing items (they don’t contain introductions or conclusions and the text is spare), a spread is devoted to one of 13 high-interest vehicles. For example, Vehicles has sections on the Bronto Skylift fire truck, R44 Helicopter, and Marine Protector Class Coast Guard patrol boat, among other machines. On each spread, a large photo of the melodramatically posed machine is flanked by smaller pictures and text boxes with “Stats & Facts” or “Did You Know?” tidbits of information. Though some entries aren’t all that “wild” (a John Deere combine harvester in Trucks, for instance, and a Chinese junk in Boats), they’re all eye candy, making this set equally enticing for new or reluctant readers.

Grades 5 & Up

ADAMSON , Thomas K. The Technology of Baseball. ISBN 978-1-4296-9955-6; ISBN 978-1-62065-906-9. LC 2012033622.
FREDERICK , Shane. The Technology of Football. ISBN 978-1-4296-9953-2; ISBN 978-1-62065-910-6. LC 2012033612.
––––. The Technology of Hockey. ISBN 978-1-4296-9954-9; ISBN 978-1-62065-912-0. LC 2012033674.
SLADE , Suzanne. The Technology of Basketball. ISBN 978-1-4296-9956-3; ISBN 978-1-62065-908-3. LC 2012033675.
ea vol: 48p. (Sports Illustrated Kids: High-Tech Sports Series). diags. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $31.32; pap. $8.95.
Gr 4-6–These studies of technology’s role in measuring (mostly) professional sports performance; in improving athletic gear, officiating, and safety; and in enhancing fan experience maintain a fine balance between general statements and specific details. For example, Football covers the “Evolution of the Football Helmet,” turf, and “Green” stadiums as well as player training and safety, among other pertinent topics. The volumes are well designed to inform and entertain jocks and technology geeks alike. In each title, the busy designs are stocked with text boxes set against colorful backgrounds, color photos of action on the fields and ice as well as behind the scenes (many featuring currently active players), and views of gadgetry that make the games possible–from scoreboards to cell phones.

GRAHAM , Ian. Cars. ISBN 978-1-4329-7030-7; ISBN 978-1-4329-7035-2. LC 2012013486.
OXLADE , Chris. Gadgets and Games. ISBN 978-1-4329-7031-4; ISBN 978-1-4329-7036-9. LC 2012013468.
SPILSBURY , Richard. Hi-Tech Clothes. maps. ISBN 978-1-4329-7032-1; ISBN 978-1-4329-7037-6. LC 2012013469.
WOOLF , Alex. Buildings. ISBN 978-1-4329-7029-1; ISBN 978-1-4329-7034-5. LC 2012013465.
ea vol: 56p. (Design and Engineering for STEM Series). chron. diags. further reading. glossary. illus. index. photos. websites. Heinemann. 2013. PLB $33.50; pap. $9.49.
Gr 5-7–With a focus on STEM, these volumes survey their subject areas in dry but carefully structured ways, following common industrial products from initial designs to eventual disposals. For example, Clothes explains how garments develop from designs to become goods that are ultimately recycled, reused, or thrown away. Each generalized stage and concept is explained, summed up, recapped, and supplemented with diagrams, color photos, statistics, case studies, and historical notes–plus, both research topics and resource lists in the back matter. Approached cold, the staid prose and visuals are unlikely to kindle readers’ interest, but where an enthusiasm for clothes, gadgets, architecture, and cars already exists, there is plenty here to broaden and deepen it.

SAMUELS , Charlie. Machines and Weaponry of the Cold War. ISBN 978-1-4339-8591-1; ISBN 978-1-4339-8594-2. LC 2012037841.
––––. Machines and Weaponry of the Gulf War. ISBN 978-1-4339-8595-9; ISBN 978-1-4339-8598-0. LC 2012024373.
––––. Machines and Weaponry of the Vietnam War. ISBN 978-1-4339-8599-7; ISBN 978-1-4339-8602-4. LC 2012034541.
––––. Machines and Weaponry of World War I. ISBN 978-1-4339-8603-1; ISBN 978-1-4339-8606-2. LC 2012021899.
––––. Machines and Weaponry of World War II. ISBN 978-1-4339-8607-9; ISBN 978-1-4339-8610-9. LC 2012018392.
ea vol: 48p. (Machines That Won the War Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. reprods. websites. Gareth Stevens. 2013. PLB $31.95; ebook $31.95.
Gr 4-6–Though one sided in focusing chiefly on the weaponry of the United States and its allies (and disingenuous in the inclusion of Vietnam War under this series title), these galleries offer a varied, browser-tempting smorgasbord of wheeled, floating, and flying vehicles, as well as hand and even chemical weapons. Each of the 20 alphabetically arranged entries includes one-to-three captioned photos or reproductions, most of which show the selected weapon in action, along with an “Eyewitness” comment from an actual user or a sidebar, and brief remarks about the weapon’s development, history, strengths, and (rare in galleries of military gear aimed at younger audiences) weaknesses. Better for browsers, but the print and web resources will be helpful to readers with a sustained interest.

Capstone’s “Graphic Library: Graphic Science and Engineering in Action” is distinguished both by its presentation and its depictions of how research is actually conducted. Even very young, unpracticed, or emergent readers will come away from Lerner’s “Lightning Bolt Books: How Flight Works” with a clear understanding of how flying machines stay in the air. Some of the titles in Capstone’s “Edge Books: Robots” take on subjects that are not well covered elsewhere, and even (or particularly) college-bound science lovers will be pleased by the level of detail in Heinemann’s “Design and Engineering for STEM.”

Biographies are the perfect tools with which educators can engage students and ask them to think critically about how important figures affected the past and the world today. The Common Core State Standards mean that children and teens need strong options from which to choose when faced with having to write reports or research papers. This season’s crop of biographies offers variety in terms of subject matter and presentation, but not all of the series are quite up to par. With shrinking budgets and limited shelf space, librarians face the difficult task of choosing between the strictly educational series and those geared more toward entertainment. Luckily, many of the series below present information in such a way that they are both fun and informative.

Preschool-Grade 4

ALLEN , Kathy. Drew Brees. ISBN 978-1-61772-716-0; ISBN 978-1-61772-765-8. LC 2012037977.
––––. Tom Brady. ISBN 978-1-61772-717-7; ISBN 978-1-61772-766-5. LC 2012035408.
––––. Tony Romo. ISBN 978-1-61772-719-1; ISBN 978-1-61772-768-9. LC 2012038165.
SCHUH , Mari. Aaron Rodgers. ISBN 978-1-61772-714-6; ISBN 978-1-61772-763-4. LC 2012039651.
––––. Adrian Peterson . ISBN 978-1-61772-718-4; ISBN 978-1-61772-767-2. LC 2012035406.
––––. Troy Polamalu. ISBN 978-1-61772-715-3; ISBN 978-1-61772-764-1. LC 2012037978.
ea vol: 24p. (Football Stars Up Close Series). bibliog. chron. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Bearport. 2013. PLB $23.93; ebook $23.93.
Gr 2-5–This set delivers a solid performance. Clear writing, full-page color photographs, and text boxes (or, rather, text footballs) of information allow young readers to learn about six of their favorite players in an accessible and visually appealing way. The titles examine their subjects’ childhoods, families, and current careers, emphasizing the players’ struggles and inspirational feats, making this series stand apart from similar sets, which can read like laundry lists of statistics and accomplishments. An established football writer is used as a consultant, giving the information credibility. Although a lot of sports jargon is used, even those not familiar with the game will be able to understand and appreciate the texts. Vocabulary words are presented in bold text and defined in a glossary.

BENNETT , Doraine. Frank Lloyd Wright. ISBN 978-1-61810-157-0; ISBN 978-1-61810-290-4. LC 2011945882.
––––. Laura Ingalls Wilder. maps. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61810-160-0; ISBN 978-1-61810-293-5. LC 2011945885.
HORD , Colleen. Joe Acaba. maps. ISBN 978-1-61810-151-8; ISBN 978-1-61810-284-3. LC 2011945877.
––––. Michael J. Fox. ISBN 978-1-61810-154-9; ISBN 978-1-61810-287-4. LC 2011945880.
––––. Muhammad Ali. maps. ISBN 978-1-61810-152-5; ISBN 978-1-61810-285-0. LC 2011945878.
MCKENZIE , Precious. Condoleezza Rice. ISBN 978-1-62169-277-5; ISBN 978-1-62169-234-8. LC 2012953418.
ea vol: 24p. (Little World Biographies Series). chron. glossary. index. photos. websites. Rourke. 2013. PLB $23.57; pap. $7.95.
K-Gr 2–The description of this series indicates that it will teach children about “inspiring individuals who have overcome many obstacles.” While is it true that some of the subjects faced problems, not all of them are apparent. For example, the book on Frank Lloyd Wright doesn’t have the same emotional resonance as the one about Michael J. Fox. Subsequently, there doesn’t seem to be a common theme linking the titles in the series together. The narratives are sparse, making them suitable for young or struggling readers, but they don’t always flow well, and they don’t have a lot of biographical content. The captioned photos are sometimes grainy and seem randomly placed. While there is obviously a teaching focus in these books (there are tips for “reading with children” and extension recommendations), kids might find better information elsewhere.

DOAK , Robin S. Barack Obama. ISBN 978-0-531-21904-1; ISBN 978-0-531-23875-2. LC 2012036050.
DOAK , Robin S. Hilary Clinton. ISBN 978-0-531-21906-5; ISBN 978-0-531-23877-6. LC 2012036004.
GREGORY , Josh. Bill and Melinda Gates. ISBN 978-0-531-21905-8; ISBN 978-0-531-23876-9. LC 2012036002.
––––. Steve Jobs. ISBN 978-0-531-21907-2; ISBN 978-0-531-23878-3. LC 2012036049.
ea vol: 48p. (A True Book: Biographies Series). chron. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Children’s Press. 2013. PLB $29; pap. $6.95.
Gr 3-6–Information abounds in these glossy, colorful, engaging volumes. Each book starts with a “Find the Truth!” section, which presents readers with two statements and encourages them to figure out which one is true by the end of the book (a great way to interest them). Facts boxes pop up everywhere–even on the covers and in the tables of contents. The narratives are interesting, accessible, and divided into clearly labeled sections. While highlighting achievements, the books also candidly touch on negative aspects of the subjects’ lives, such as Bill Clinton’s “relationship with another woman” and the fact that Steve Jobs “usually smelled bad” in the 1970s because he didn’t shower.  Colorful and black-and-white captioned photos, time lines, a “True Statistics” section, and other helpful features supplement the texts. A solid, entertaining, and informative series.

EDISON , Erin. Clara Barton. reprods. ISBN 978-1-62065-076-9; ISBN 978-1-62065-857-4. LC 2012033472.
––––. Harriet Tubman. reprods. ISBN 978-1-62065-072-1; ISBN 978-1-62065-859-8. LC 2012033623.
––––. Jane Goodall. ISBN 978-1-4765-0143-7; ISBN 978-1-4765-0144-4. LC 2012033471.
––––. Pocahontas . reprods. ISBN 978-1-62065-074-5; ISBN 978-1-62065-861-1. LC 2012033473.
––––. Rosa Parks. ISBN 978-1-62065-071-4; ISBN 978-1-62065-863-5. LC 2012033474.
––––. Susan B. Anthony. reprods. ISBN 978-1-62065-075-2; ISBN 978-1-62065-865-9. LC 2012033475.
ea vol: 24p. (Pebble Books: Great Women in History Series). chron. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $21.32; pap. $5.95.
Gr 1-2–The books in this basic, yet useful series are small in stature and light on text. Each slim volume presents its subject’s life from birth to death, discussing her contribution to history and highlighting why she was indeed “great.” On each spread, the text faces a full-page, uncaptioned black-and-white or color photograph or reproduction. A time line runs across the bottom of the pages. The texts are straightforward and informative, but can be rather dry, and the series title is located on the back of the volumes instead of the front, which might be confusing for some kids. Vocabulary words are not set apart by bold text, but they are defined in a helpful glossary at the back of each book. Solid choices for beginning and/or struggling readers.

FRISCH , Aaron. Aaron Rodgers. ISBN 978-1-60818-334-0. LC 2012013473 .
––––. Adrian Peterson . ISBN 978-1-60818-335-7. LC 2012013475.
––––. Albert Pujols. ISBN 978-1-60818-336-4. LC 2012013476.
––––. Justin Bieber. ISBN 978-1-60818-330-2. LC 2012013644 .
––––. Katy Perry. ISBN 978-1-60818-331-9. LC 2012013470.
––––. Lady Gaga. ISBN 978-1-60818-332-6. LC 2012013471.
––––. LeBron James. ISBN 978-1-60818-337-1. LC 2012013478.
––––. Taylor Swift. ISBN 978-1-60818-333-3. LC 2012013472.
ea vol: 24p. (The Big Time Series). further reading. glossary. index. maps. photos. websites. Creative Education. 2013. PLB $25.65.
Gr 2-4–Capitalizing on current levels of fame and popularity, this high-interest series profiles four pro-athletes and four singers, providing information about their backgrounds, their achievements and challenges, how they shot to fame, and their outside interests. Each book starts off with an opening scene that introduces the star doing what he or she does best: performing, playing football, etc. The large-font text is spare but informative, and chapters are divided logically. Each spread contains a full-color photograph that complements the narrative, which is clearly written and accessible for new and struggling readers. Glossary words are set apart in an italic, colored font throughout the texts. A solid, basic pop-culture biography set for younger readers.

MARA , Wil. George Washington. reprods. ISBN 978-0-531-24736-5; ISBN 978-0-531-24702-0. LC 2012035027.
––––. Harriet Tubman. reprods. ISBN 978-0-531-24737-2; ISBN 978-0-531-24703-7. LC 2012035026.
––––. Martin Luther King Jr. ISBN 978-0-531-24738-9; ISBN 978-0-531-24704-4. LC 2012035023.
MATTERN , Joanne. Barack Obama. ISBN 978-0-531-24735-8; ISBN 978-0-531-24701-3. LC 2012035025.
––––. Steve Jobs. ISBN 978-0-531-24739-6; ISBN 978-0-531-24705-1. LC 2012035024.
––––. Walt Disney. ISBN 978-0-531-24740-2; ISBN 978-0-531-24706-8. LC 2012035022.
ea vol: 32p. (Rookie Biographies Series). chron. glossary. index. maps. photos. websites. Children’s Press. 2013. PLB $23; pap. $5.95.
Gr 1-2–With simple text and colorful captioned images, these small-sized, introductions manage to pack in a lot of information about six people who have influenced history in very different ways. Short sentences, clear maps and time lines, “Fast Fact!” text boxes, and other nonfiction book features, such as glossaries with pronunciation guides, assist kids in learning facts without being overwhelmed. Large full-color and black-and-white photos and reproductions illustrate every spread. Each book also includes a poem about the subject and an inspirational section that encourages readers to think about helping others, becoming innovators, and getting involved in a handful of other pursuits that echo the achievements of the featured person.

MILLER , Connie Colwell. Carl Edwards . ISBN 978-1-61783-662-6; ISBN 978-1-61480-781-0. LC 2012946245.
––––. Dale Earnhardt Jr. ISBN 978-1-61783-661-9; ISBN 978-1-61480-780-3. LC 2012946251.
––––. Danica Patrick. ISBN 978-1-61783-666-4; ISBN 978-1-61480-785-8. LC 2012946334.
––––. Jimmie Johnson. ISBN 978-1-61783-664-0; ISBN 978-1-61480-783-4. LC 2012946321.
––––. Matt Kenseth. ISBN 978-1-61783-665-7; ISBN 978-1-61480-784-1. LC 2012946322.
SCHEFF , Matt. Jeff Gordon. ISBN 978-1-61783-663-3; ISBN 978-1-61480-782-7. LC 2012946250.
––––. Kyle Busch. ISBN 978-1-61783-660-2; ISBN 978-1-61480-779-7. LC 20129463249.
––––. Tony Stewart. ISBN 978-1-61783-667-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-786-5. LC 2012946315.
ea vol: 32p. (NASCAR Heroes Series). chron. glossary. index. photos. ABDO. 2013. PLB $27.07; ebook $27.07.
Gr 2-5–Using a combination of basic biographical information and lots of career analysis, these biographies profile eight drivers. The splashy, chaotic design is sometimes distracting, and the white text on black background on some of the pages can be hard to read. In addition, paragraph blocks are used to present information, so it’s often difficult to differentiate between the “Fast Fact” text boxes and the actual narrative. The large, full-color photos will please fans, but also sometimes take up a lot of space without necessarily adding anything to the narratives. Readers might get lost in the racecar jargon–the fact that the glossary words are not differentiated throughout the texts does not help. With sentences such as “Then Busch wrecked another driver on purpose at a truck race,” it’s hard to understand why some of these stars are considered “heroes.” This one’s only for libraries with truly committed racing fans.

RIDLEY , Sarah. Anne Frank…and Her Diary. diags. ISBN 978-1-59771-391-7. LC 2011049890.
––––. Florence Nightingale…and A New Age of Nursing. reprods. ISBN 978-1-59771-392-4. LC 2011049889.
––––. Martin Luther King…and the Fight for Equality. ISBN 978-1-59771-389-4. LC 2011049888.
––––. Nelson Mandela…and His Struggle For Freedom. ISBN 978-1-59771-390-0. LC 2011049887.
––––. Winston Churchill…and World War II. reprods. ISBN 978-1-59771-393-1. LC 2011049886.
ea vol: 24p. (History Makers Series). chron. glossary. index. photos. Sea-to-Sea. 2013. PLB $25.65.
Gr 2-4–This series profiles five influential people, chronicling their achievements and highlighting the circumstances that led them to become “history makers.” The text is large, making it easy on the eyes. While the narratives are not especially exciting, they are straightforward, flow well, and have clear language and short sentences. The captioned color and black-and-white photographs are set against a muted color palette, and the design is clean. A time line travels on the bottom of each page, providing a quick reference. The words in the glossary are not set apart in the text, which might be problematic for vocabulary building. Nonetheless, these books provide solid basic biographical information, giving historical context for the subjects’ lives while adding enough personal details to make the famous figures interesting and accessible to a young audience.

WOOD, Alix. Claude Monet. ISBN 978-1-61533-620-3; ISBN 978-1-61533-638-8. LC 2012025842.
––––. Francisco Goya. ISBN 978-1-61533-624-1; ISBN 978-1-61533-642-5. LC 2012030049.
––––. J ohannes Vermeer. ISBN 978-1-61533-623-4; ISBN 978-1-61533-641-8. LC 2012025843.
––––. Leonardo da Vinci. ISBN 978-1-61533-621-0; ISBN 978-1-61533639-5. LC 2012025841.
––––. Paul Cézanne. ISBN 978-1-61533-619-7; ISBN 978-1-61533-637-1. LC 2012020269.
––––. Vincent van Gogh. ISBN 978-1-61533-622-7; ISBN 978-1-61533-640-1. LC 2012028071. Ages
ea vol: 32p. (Artists Through the Ages Series). further reading. glossary. index. maps. photos. reprods. websites. Windmill. 2013. PLB $25.25; ebook $25.25.
Gr 2-5–This series introduces students to the lives and works of famous artists in an engaging and educational manner. By presenting biographical information and an explanation of the subjects’ artwork (including facts about the historical context in which they were created), the books cover six painters in a well-rounded manner. The large-font text is appropriately geared toward the target age group, and the content will be interesting even to those who know little about art. Sidebars occasionally engage readers with the text by asking them to ponder questions such as whether or not da Vinci purposefully made a flaw in a design for a tank or what he left out of the Mona Lisa. While there are maps, captioned photos, and/or text boxes on most spreads, the real visual treats are the reproductions of the artists’ works (e.g., Monet’s The Japanese Footbridge and Van Gogh’s The Starry Night). The bright design adds to the visual appeal, and the information is clearly and logically presented. A worthy addition to any art collection.

Grades 5 & Up

Chris Brown . ISBN 978-1-62250-017-8; ISBN 978-1-61247-698-8.
Drake. ISBN 978-1-62250-013-0; ISBN 978-1-61247-694-0.
50 Cent. ISBN 978-1-62250-008-6; ISBN 978-1-61247-689-6.
Jay-Z. ISBN 978-1-62250-012-3; ISBN 978-1-61247-693-3.
Kanye West. ISBN 978-1-62250-016-1; ISBN 978-1-61247-697-1.
Lil Wayne. ISBN 978-1-62250-014-7; ISBN 978-1-61247-695-7.
Nicki Minaj. ISBN 978-1-62250-010-9; ISBN 978-1-61247-691-9.
Pitbull. ISBN 978-1-62250-015-4; ISBN 978-1-61247-696-4.
Rihanna. ISBN 978-1-62250-011-6; ISBN 978-1-61247-692-6.
Usher. ISBN 978-1-62250-009-3; ISBN 978-1-61247-690-2.
ea vol: 48p. (Hip-Hop Biographies Series). chron. glossary. photos. Saddleback. 2013. pap. $10.95; ebook $13.95.
Gr 6 Up–Geared toward hi/lo and reluctant readers, this series profiles several famous hip-hop and rap artists, providing information about their childhoods, struggles and achievements, and eventual stardom. While the subjects might be high-interest, the causal writing is generally stilted, with awkward sentence structure and transitions. In addition, many of the photos are of poor quality, and some even border on inappropriate (although, realistically, they are nothing worse than what readers might see on TV). The vocabulary sections in the back of each volume are not particular helpful. While this set highlights that these artists have overcome difficult circumstances and many of them give back to their communities, it also seems to glorify some of their violent backgrounds and/or illegal actions. For example, Chris Brown discusses the star’s physical assault against his girlfriend, noting that, “…many of Chris’s fans supported him, especially young girls.” Readers and music fans deserve quality literature about their heroes. Unfortunately, this series does not provide it.

DONOVAN , Sandy. Zoë Kravitz: X-Men’s Amazing Angel. ISBN 978-1-4677-0747-3; ISBN 978-1-4677-1016-9.
HIGGINS , Nadia. Jennifer Lawrence: The Hunger Games’ Girl on Fire. ISBN 978-1-4677-0743-5; ISBN 978-1-4677-1012-1.
––––. Taylor Lautner: Twilight’s Fearless Werewolf. ISBN 978-1-4677-0745-9; ISBN 978-1-4677-1015-2.
LUSTED , Marica Amidon. Booboo Stewart: Twilight’s Breakout Idol. ISBN 978-1-4677-0746-6; ISBN 978-1-4677-1011-4.
SHAFFER , Jody Jensen. Josh Hutcherson: The Hunger Games’ Hot Hero. ISBN 978-1-4677-0744-2; ISBN 978-1-4677-1013-8.
––––. Liam Hemsworth: The Hunger Games’ Strong Survivor . ISBN 978-1-4677-0742-8; ISBN 978-1-4677-1014-5.
ea vol: 32p. (Pop Culture Bios: Action Movie Stars Series). further reading. index. notes. photos. websites. Lerner. 2013. PLB $26.60; ebook $19.95.
Gr 6 Up –Like similar celebrity-centered series, this one presents high-interest material in a splashy way. Profiling six popular action stars, a plethora of information is given about their childhoods, careers, interests, and even their romantic lives. Unfortunately, most of the books read more like teen gossip magazines than biographies. The frequent use of slang such as “yummers” and “nutso” and abbreviated words such as “sibs” and “favs” smacks of talking down to the audience and does nothing to aid with vocabulary building. Text boxes contain both biographical and superfluous information (e.g., “Feed him sushi for dinner, show him an action flick, and he’s yours!”). Each volume contains myriad color photos from the subjects’ movies and personal lives, with captions such as “Taylor’s rockin’ bod makes its debut in New Moon.” Unless you have pop-culture fans pleading for this type of series in your library, it’s probably to their advantage that you pass on this one.

GARCIA , Tracy J. Eli Whitney. ISBN 978-1-4777-0075-4; ISBN 978-1-4777-0174-4. LC 2012019319.
––––. Thomas Edison. ISBN 978-1-4777-0076-1; ISBN 978-1-4777-0175-1. LC 2012018690.
GOULD , Jane. George Washington Carver. ISBN 978-1-4777-0078-5; ISBN 978-1-4777-0177-5. LC 2012018689.
––––. Steve Jobs. ISBN 978-1-4777-0080-8; ISBN 978-1-4777-0179-9. LC 2012020633.
ROBERTS , Steven. Henry Ford. ISBN 978-1-4777-0079-2; ISBN 978-1-4777-0178-2. LC 2012020485.
––––. Robert Fulton. ISBN 978-1-4777-0077-8; ISBN 978-1-4777-0176-8. LC 2012020630.
ea vol: illus. by Planman Technologies. 24p. (Jr. Graphic American Inventors Series). chron. glossary. index. websites. Rosen/PowerKids Pr. 2013. PLB $25.25; ebook $25.25.
Gr 3-6 –With their user-friendly nonfiction features and smooth narrative style, these biographies in a graphic-novel format are a fantastic way to introduce reluctant (and enthusiastic) readers to the lives of important historical figures. From Robert Fulton to Steve Jobs, they profile six inventors, highlighting their accomplishments, struggles, and contributions to the world (e.g., Steve Jobs “changed the way people live”). The table of contents, brief introductions, and helpful lists of main characters are all presented on one page, giving readers helpful context for the pages that follow. Narrative text and dialogue boxes float above and in the illustrations, which are attractive and engaging. With clear, interesting, and accessible language, the volumes are easy to read. These biographies flow just like conventional graphic novels–a plus when trying to engage students with nonfiction material.

Although some of these series are perhaps more “high-interest” than others, the respective levels of quality are not as high as they need to be in order to adhere to the new standards being implemented by schools. When choosing biographies, librarians should, ideally, aim for a balance of the interesting and the educational. The most effective choices from this particular group fill collection gaps and supplement curricula while also maintaining readers’ interest. PowerKids’s “Jr. Graphic American Inventors” is the only graphic-novel series presented this time around, and it’s a strong selection for reluctant readers. Windmill’s “Artists Through the Ages” is one of the more visually appealing offerings; it provides compelling information. Children’s Press’s “A True Book: Biographies” delivers a complete picture of each subject and a plethora of information in an easily digestible way. Finally, Capstone’s “Pebble Books: Great Women in History” is well written and may fill a gap that some of the other male-centric series do not. If you want books that focus on entertainment or sports, Creative Education’s “The Big Time” or Bearport’s “Football Stars Up Close” are the best way to go.

]]> http://www.slj.com/2013/04/books-media/reviews/series-made-simple/pivotal-people-biography-series-made-simple-spring-2013/feed/ 0 http://www.slj.com/2013/04/books-media/reviews/series-made-simple/from-pet-cats-to-saber-tooths-animals-series-made-simple-spring-2013/ http://www.slj.com/2013/04/books-media/reviews/series-made-simple/from-pet-cats-to-saber-tooths-animals-series-made-simple-spring-2013/#comments Wed, 10 Apr 2013 16:00:25 +0000 SLJ http://www.slj.com/?p=39188 Any elementary school librarian can tell you that trying to keep books in the 590s in reasonable order is a herculean task. However, that’s not a negative. Children in this age range devour books about animals. The reviews below should present librarians with the best kind of quandary: which ones to choose?

Preschool-Grade 4

CONNORS , Kathleen. Chameleons. ISBN 978-1-4339-8359-7; ISBN 978-1-4339-8362-7. LC 2012018916.
––––. Geckos. ISBN 978-1-4339-8364-1; ISBN 978-1-4339-8367-2. LC 2012019130.
––––. Gila Monsters. ISBN 978-1-4339-8369-6; ISBN 978-1-4339-8372-6. LC 2012021878.
––––. Iguanas. maps. ISBN 978-1-4339-8374-0; ISBN 978-1-4339-8377-1. LC 2012022906.
––––. Komodo Dragons. ISBN 978-1-4339-8379-5; ISBN 978-1-4339-8382-5. LC 2012031290.
––––. Snapping Turtles. ISBN 978-1-4339-8384-9; ISBN 978-1-4339-8387-0. LC 2012031286.
ea vol: 24p. (Really Wild Reptiles Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Gareth Stevens. 2013. PLB $22.60; ebook $22.60.
Gr 2-4–Outstanding large, color photos are the draw for this series. In particular, the images in Chameleons have a definite “wow” factor. These brilliantly colored reptiles leap from the pages with their rainbow hues. The images, however, are not for the squeamish: in Komodo Dragons, the reptile is shown devouring no-longer-recognizable prey, and a photo in Gila Monsters shows a furry creature being consumed. That aside, the close-up of a nocturnal gecko’s eye or the charming photo of romantic iguanas will mesmerize children. The solid texts are equally good. Each volume begins with an introduction, followed by sections on body parts, survival tactics, habitats, diets, life cycles, and more. “What a Wild Life!” text boxes deliver additional facts (e.g., “Gila monster venom doesn’t hurt other Gila monsters”). These high-interest introductions will  delight for report writers and browsers.

DIXON , Dougal. Dinosaurs Dominate. ISBN 978-1-84898-628-2. LC 2012002749.
––––. Huge Hunters Roam the Earth: Ancient Mammals. ISBN 978-1-84898-624-4.
––––. Reptiles Rule: Triassic Life. ISBN 978-1-84898-629-9.
––––. Saber Tooths Are the Big Cats: Ice Age. ISBN 978-1-84898-627-5.
––––. Sea Creatures Crawl on Land: Early Life. ISBN 978-1-84898-626-8.
––––. T. rex Is King: Cretaceous Life. ISBN 978-1-84898-625-1.
ea vol: 32p. (Awesome Ancient Animals Series). chron. glossary. illus. index. maps. photos. New Forest. 2013. PLB $28.50.
Gr 2-5 –Prolific author Dixon does not disappoint here. These titles follow the evolution of animals from the early Paleozoic era to the Ice Age. Each book begins with an introduction that provides context for what is to come, as well as a colorful, illustrated time line. The spreads that follow share the same format: a paragraph set off in a text box that succinctly describes the animal under discussion, a vivid illustration (drawn from various photo archives, such as the Natural History Museum, London, etc.), a sidebar titled “Animal Fact File,” two small paragraphs with additional factoids (“Sometimes Mammoths became buried in mud when they sank into a peat bog.”), and a photo of fossils and/or skeletons. The “Animal Family Glossary” in each book provides students with opportunities to compare groups (Ornithopods, Thyreophorans, etc.). Even collections in which ancient animals are well represented will want to add these attractive books, which will service both report writers and dinophiles.

DRUMLIN , Sam. Dolphins. ISBN 978-1-4488-9641-7; ISBN 978-1-4488-9880-0. LC 2012020315.
––––. Harp Seals. ISBN 978-1-4488-9646-2; ISBN 978-1-4488-9885-5. LC 2012024548.
––––. Manatees. ISBN 978-1-4488-9644-8; ISBN 978-1-4488-9883-1. LC 2012022770.
––––. Orcas. ISBN 978-1-4488-9645-5; ISBN 978-1-4488-9884-8. LC 2012023594.
––––. Sea Otters. ISBN 978-1-4488-9643-1; ISBN 978-1-4488-9882-4. LC 2012022556.
––––. Walruses. ISBN 978-1-4488-9642-4; ISBN 978-1-4488-9881-7. LC 2012021116 .
ea vol: 24p. (PowerKids Readers: Sea Friends Series). glossary. index. photos. websites. Rosen/PowerKids Pr. 2013. PLB $22.60; ebook $22.60.
PreS-K–Each book contains one simple declarative sentence per spread that is placed opposite a full-page, color photograph. Minimal information is conveyed, and there is oversimplification that could result in confusion. For example, in Walruses, statements such as “Walruses are big!” give young readers no context. And the sentence “Females are cows” might leave some thinking that the author means dairy cows. Orcas states that “They eat many foods” without giving any examples or pictures of the creature’s prey. These generalizations are problematic as is the fact that the photos don’t always coincide with the text. For example, in Walruses, readers learn that “Clams are their top food.” But no clams are in sight in the accompanying image. The “Words to Know” sections contain pictures, but no text definitions. All in all, there is not enough substance here to hold the attention of the intended audience.

DUNN , Mary R. Pygmy Marmosets. ISBN 978-1-62065-107-0. LC 2012024131.
––––. Spider Monkeys. ISBN 978-1-62065-104-9. LC 2012026446.
––––. Tamarin Monkeys. ISBN 978-1-62065-105-6. LC 2012023415.
MCCARTHY , Cecilia Pinto. Baboons. ISBN 978-1-62065-109-4. LC 2012026444.
––––. Capuchin Monkeys. ISBN 978-1-62065-108-7. LC 2012026445.
––––. Mandrill Monkeys. ISBN 978-1-62065-106-3. LC 2012024130.
ea vol: 24p. (Pebble Plus: Monkeys Series). diags. further reading. glossary. index. maps. photos. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $24.65.
K-Gr 2 –While these books are brief (fewer than half of the pages contain text), they are still solid means by which the youngest researchers can learn to navigate nonfiction. The simple sentence structure and vocabulary are perfect for emergent readers, but content is not sacrificed because of the economic language (e.g., “Pygmy marmosets care for their babies. They carry newborns on their backs.”). Students will learn about various monkeys’ physical appearances, how they find food, their family units, and how they function in groups. In addition to the main text, the verso of each spread includes maps indicating where an animal makes its home or diagrams comparing the featured monkey’s size to humans. The remarkable, large, color photographs, which correspond closely to the texts, feature monkeys in their habitats and will draw in browsers and animal-lovers alike. The “Read More” suggestions are current and the suggested websites offer projects and games as well as portals to more information. The series is a strong choice for introducing children to research and nonfiction book features.

JEFFREY , Laura S. Choosing a Cat: How to Choose and Care for a Cat. ISBN 978-0-7660-4079-3.
––––. Choosing a Dog: How to Choose and Care for a Dog. ISBN 978-0-7660-4080-9.
––––. Choosing a Fish: How to Choose and Care for a Fish. ISBN 978-0-7660-4081-6.
––––. Choosing a Hamster, Gerbil, Guinea Pig, Rabbit, Ferret, Mouse, or Rat: How to Choose and Care for a Small Mammal. ISBN 978-0-7660-4082-3.
––––. Choosing a Horse: How to Choose and Care for a Horse. ISBN 978-0-7660-4083-0.
ea vol: 48p. (The American Humane Association Pet Care Series Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Enslow Elementary. 2013. PLB $23.93.
Gr 2-4 –The American Humane Association does wonderful work, protecting defenseless animals, working to control the pet population, and helping to place unwanted critters in good homes. Unfortunately, this series is so agenda driven that its appeal to children is minimal. Readers looking forward to owning a pet will find a small list of “dos” and a massive list of “don’ts,” some of which have nothing to do with the targeted age range. Horse has the most egregious flaws, with such statements as “Be careful of horse auctions, bargains in the classified ads, and overeager horse dealers.”  “Pet Pointer” and “Fast Fact” text boxes provide helpful tidbits. While there are  “Words to Know” sections, glossary words are not highlighted within the texts. The numerous captioned, color and black-and-white photos may draw in browsers and animal lovers, but however well-intentioned these books are, they’re not what pet sections need.

LLANAS , Sheila Griffin. Armadillos. ISBN 978-1-61783-567-4; ISBN 978-1-61480-714-8. LC 2012946533.
––––. Bald Eagles. ISBN 978-1-61783-568-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-715-5. LC 2012946541.
––––. Buffaloes. ISBN 978-1-61783-569-8; ISBN 978-1-61480-716-2. LC 2012946540.
––––. Coyotes. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-570-4; ISBN 978-1-61480-717-9. LC 2012946537.
––––. Gray Wolves. ISBN 978-1-61783-571-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-718-6. LC 2012946817.
––––. Grizzly Bears. ISBN 978-1-61783-572-8; ISBN 978-1-61480-719-3. LC 2012946799.
ea vol: 32p. (Animal Icons Series). glossary. index. maps. photos. websites. ABDO. 2013. PLB $27.07; ebook $27.07.
Gr 2-4 –This well-organized series features animals that have become cultural symbols in America. After a brief introduction, the chapters proceed in logical order, discussing the animal’s history, body specifics, (“Plate to Plate” in Armadillos, “Beak to Talons” in Bald Eagles, etc.), behavior, life cycle, eating habits, and expectations for future survival. Each volume includes a chapter that explains why the featured creature is considered iconic; myths and stories about it are also infused throughout the lively texts. Glossary words are in bold font. Additional information is provided by way of “Icon Extras” text boxes; clear, color photographs (most of them captioned), maps, etc. abound. A single complaint would be that while the books include a link to a regularly updated website, there are no suggestions for further reading. Positive additions for most collections.

LYNETTE , Rachel. Capybaras. ISBN 978-1-61772-753-5; ISBN 978-1-61772-802-0. LC 2012039854.
––––. Giant River Otters. ISBN 978-1-61772-754-2; ISBN 978-1-61772-803-7. LC 2012039856.
––––. Jaguars. ISBN 978-1-61772-755-9; ISBN 978-1-61772-804-4. LC 2012039858 .
––––. Kinkajous. ISBN 978-1-61772-752-8; ISBN 978-1-61772-801-3. LC 2012039857.
––––. Pink River Dolphins. ISBN 978-1-61772-758-0; ISBN 978-1-61772-807-5. LC 2012039860.
––––. South American Tapirs. ISBN 978-1-61772-759-7; ISBN 978-1-61772-808-2. LC 2012039864.
––––. Squirrel Monkeys. ISBN 978-1-61772-757-3; ISBN 978-1-61772-806-8. LC 2012039855.
––––. Three-Toed Sloths. ISBN 978-1-61772-756-6; ISBN 978-1-61772-805-1. LC 2012039867.
ea vol: 24p. (Jungle Babies of the Amazon Rainforest Series). diags. further reading. glossary. index. maps. photos. websites. Bearport. 2013. PLB $21.32; ebook $21.32.
PreS-Gr 2 –These slim books are packed with well-organized information about some of the more unusual jungle babies and could serve as models of informational books for this audience. The vocabulary is simple but still manages to pack a punch, with important words in bold defined by both word and picture in the glossary. The photography is sharp and clearly labeled. Sidebars include maps, diagrams that indicate comparative size, and magnifications of a particular animal’s unique features. In addition to a table of contents and an index, there are “read more” and “learn more online” features in the back matter.  Although too small to be used for actual classroom instruction, these titles will attract browsers and will be appreciated by fledgling report writers.

MURRAY, Julie. Giant Pandas. ISBN 978-1-61783-552-0; ISBN 978-1-61480-691-2. LC 2012023976.
––––. Gibbons. ISBN 978-1-61783-554-4; ISBN 978-1-61480-692-9. LC 2012030979.
––––. Komodo Dragons. ISBN 978-1-61783-555-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-693-6. LC 2012030859.
––––. Orangutans. ISBN 978-1-61783-556-8; ISBN 978-1-61480-694-3. LC 2012023974.
––––. Sloth Bears. ISBN 978-1-61783-557-5; ISBN 978-1-61480-695-0. LC 2012023975.
––––. Tigers. ISBN 978-1-61783-558-2; ISBN 978-1-61480-696-7. LC 2012030917.
ea vol: 32p. (Big Buddy Books: Asian Animals Series). maps. photos. glossary. index. websites. ABDO. 2013. PLB $28.50; ebook $28.50.
Gr 2-4 –This well-designed set is a commendable introduction to six Asian animals–both familiar, such as tigers, and lesser-known, such as sloth bears. Each book starts off with a general introduction to Asia (which includes a spread that highlights geographical and cultural facts about the continent) and the subject animal. Chapters cover physical attributes, diets, habits, young, and more. Each book closes with information about the creature’s survival. “Take a Closer Look” sections are written in a particularly lively style. Sidebars highlight unusual or interesting facts (e.g., “Giant pandas sometimes eat grasses, fruits, birds, rodents, or dead animals.”), but do not interfere with the focus of the main text. Captioned color photos illustrate each spread. Back matter includes a page of additional facts.

SPILSBURY , Richard & Louise Spilsbury . Ant Colonies. ISBN 978-1-4777-0302-1; ISBN 978-1-4777-0372-4. LC 2012026320.
––––. Chimpanzee Troops. ISBN 978-1-4777-0303-8; ISBN 978-1-4777-0373-1. LC 2012019586.
––––. Dog Packs. ISBN 978-1-4777-0304-5; ISBN 978-1-4777-0374-8. LC 2012026321.
––––. Dolphin and Whale Pods. ISBN 978-1-4777-0305-2; ISBN 978-1-4777-0375-5. LC 2012022326.
––––. Lion Prides. ISBN 978-1-4777-0306-9; ISBN 978-1-4777-0376-2. LC 2012022324.
––––. Wolf Packs. ISBN 978-1-4777-0307-6; ISBN 978-1-4777-0377-9. LC 2012026319.
ea vol: 32p. (Animal Armies Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Rosen/PowerKids Pr. 2013. PLB $25.25; ebook $25.25.
Gr 2-4 –These deceptively slim volumes are packed with information that will be a boon to report writers, attractive to browsers, and fill that high interest/low vocabulary need. The conversational style and lively descriptions of the sophisticated behaviors of these cooperative animal groups should have readers requesting the entire series. The single spread chapters cover the main points in an introductory paragraph, followed by a paragraph in a different colored font that elaborates on them. Sidebars contain interesting facts, such as “Some ants can make living bridges with their bodies” and “Coyotes are great hunters because the can chase prey quickly.” A shortcoming would be that occasionally the color photographs are blurry and sometimes not specifically labeled. The “Further Readings” section at the back of each title suggests current books, and the website section refers to a frequently updated site. Glossary words (“tactics,” “reserves,” “echolocation,” etc.) are in a bold font throughout the texts.

TURNBULL , Stephanie. Alligator. ISBN 978-1-59920-831-2. LC 2012004110.
––––. Eagle. ISBN 978-1-59920-832-9. LC 2012004111.
––––. Elephant. ISBN 978-1-59920-833-6. LC 2012004112.
––––. Giraffe. ISBN 978-1-59920-834-3. LC 2012004113.
––––. Gorilla. ISBN 978-1-59920-835-0. LC 2012004114.
––––. Polar Bear. ISBN 978-1-59920-836-7. LC 2012004115.
––––. Tiger. ISBN 978-1-59920-837-4. LC 2012004116.
––––. Whale. illus. ISBN 978-1-59920-838-1. LC 2012004117.
ea vol: 24p. (Big Beasts Series). glossary. index. photos. websites. Smart Apple. 2013. PLB $25.65.
K-Gr 2 –This series is mix of positives and negatives. On the plus side, the books are informative, not badly organized, and have reasonably decent photographs that include close-ups and action shots. On the negative, Turnbull seems to have a penchant for avoiding the use of numbers, which could prove confusing for readers. The animals’ sizes are often described with odd comparisons. For example, “The biggest alligators weigh about the same as a racehorse.” This is an interesting fact, but does nothing to inform students, who probably have no idea how much a racehorse itself weighs. Though these titles contain plenty of facts about these creatures, the sometimes-graphic descriptions and depictions of how they attack and devour their prey might be disturbing to the targeted readership. For example, one photo shows polar bear cubs covered in blood, and another features a tiger tucking into a bloody carcass. In each volume, the glossary includes only three or four words, the index is negligible, and the single website listed is ephemeral.

Grades 5 & Up

CLAYBOURNE, Anna. Dolphins. ISBN 978-1-4329-7061-1; ISBN 978-1-4329-7068-0. LC 2012013333.
––––. Humpback Whales. reprods. ISBN 978-1-4329-7062-8; ISBN 978-1-4329-7069-7. LC 2012013336.
SPILSBURY , Louise. Sea Otters. ISBN 978-1-4329-7065-9; ISBN 978-1-4329-7072-7. LC 2012013346.
––––. Walruses. ISBN 978-1-4329-7066-6; ISBN 978-1-4329-7073-4. LC 2012013348.
THROP , Claire. Orcas. ISBN 978-1-4329-7063-5; ISBN 978-1-4329-7070-3. LC 2012013339.
––––. Seals. ISBN 978-1-4329-7064-2; ISBN 978-1-4329-7071-0. LC 2012013344.
ea vol: 48p. (Living in the Wild: Sea Mammals Series). charts. diags. further reading. glossary. index. maps. photos. websites. Heinemann. 2013. PLB $31.43; pap. $8.99.
Gr 4-6–This series contains so much information about sea mammals that it could easily be titled “Everything you wanted to know about…” All of the books follow the same logical progression, beginning with definitions of what sea mammals are as well as the specific animal to be discussed, followed by information about habitat, diet, life cycle, behavior, and intelligence. Final spreads cover threats to the species, ways people can help, and predictions for the creatures’ futures. These sections would be excellent prompts for class discussions. The titles are replete with charts, maps, diagrams, and captioned color photos, which all complement and expand the main text. Informative sidebars contain fascinating facts, such as “Scientists studying walruses have discovered that females will adopt calves that lose their real mother,” and brief profiles of scientists. Nicely designed and organized with a lively, conversational style and well-researched text, this set will be a first purchase for most collections.

The majority of these series would be serviceable additions to most collections. Of particular note for children in preschool through grade two is Bearport’s “Jungle Babies of the Amazon Rainforest,” while Gareth Stevens’s “Really Wild Reptiles” is a strong selection for slightly older readers. If budget constraints and curriculum requirements demand that priorities be set, the focus of each series might be a deciding factor. For example, the core information in PowerKids’s “Animal Armies” is about how creatures function in groups, while ABDO’s “Animal Icons” centers on the place of symbolic animals in American culture. Need more dinosaur books? You can’t go wrong with New Forest’s “Awesome Ancient Animals.”

Animal books are perennial favorites for pleasure reading and report writing. This spring, series about pets, both common and unusual, are prevalent, as are titles about attention-grabbing (big or scary) creatures. While many of the sets cover standard report elements such as habitats, life cycles, and the food chain, others have a more specific focus. Publishers have clearly taken note of the Common Core State Standards; along with the expected elements (glossaries, table of contents, and indexes), features such as charts, diagrams, and tables are widespread. Though the writing style in many of these series does not do much to engage readers, students will be drawn in by the bright color photos, sidebars, and attractive layouts.

Preschool-Grade 4

APPLEBY , Alex. I See a Bird. ISBN 978-1-4339-8539-3; ISBN 978-1-4339-8542-3. LC 2012022023.
––––. I See a Butterfly. ISBN 978-1-4339-8543-0; ISBN 978-1-4339-8546-1. LC 2012022022.
––––. I See a Chipmunk. ISBN 978-1-4339-8547-8; ISBN 978-1-4339-8550-8. LC 2012020691.
––––. I See a Frog. ISBN 978-1-4339-8551-5; ISBN 978-1-4339-8554-6. LC 2012020692.
––––. I See a Ladybug. ISBN 978-1-4339-8555-3; ISBN 978-1-4339-8558-4. LC 2012020693.
––––. I See a Squirrel. ISBN 978-1-4339-8559-1; ISBN 978-1-4339-8562-1. LC 2012022024.
ea vol: 24p. (In My Backyard Series). glossary. photos. index. Gareth Stevens. 2013. PLB $22.60; ebook $22.60.
PreS-Gr 1 –In these introductions to common animals, spreads consist of a full-color photo on one side and one or two sentences in a large font on the other. The images generally support new words featured in the text. Readers will learn about the animals’ homes, bodies, life cycles, and diet, among other things. By the time students learn to read, however, they may already know much of the very basic information presented in this series, but the titles could also be read aloud to younger children. Unfortunately, Butterfly refers to a cocoon rather than the preferred chrysalis and some difficult vocabulary (such as “migration”) is left out of the picture glossaries.

DOUDNA , Kelly. Bashful Ball Pythons. ISBN 978-1-61783-397-7; ISBN 978-1-61480-749-0. LC 2011050724.
––––. Cheeky Chinchillas. ISBN 978-1-61783-398-4; ISBN 978-1-61480-750-6. LC 2011050725.
––––. Hilarious Hedgehogs. ISBN 978-1-61783-399-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-751-3. LC 2011050726.
KUSKOWSKI , Alex. Magnificent Macaws. ISBN 978-1-61783-400-4; ISBN 978-1-61480-752-0. LC 2011050727.
––––. Portly Potbellied Pigs. ISBN 978-1-61783-401-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-753-7. LC 2011050812.
––––. Tricky Tarantulas. ISBN 978-1-61783-402-8; ISBN 978-1-61480-754-4. LC 2011050813.
ea vol: illus. by C.A. Nobens. 24p. (Unusual Pets Series). glossary. photos. ABDO. 2013. PLB $22.78; ebook $22.78.
K-Gr 2 –This series is an odd melding of fact with fiction. The books begin with five spreads of basic information about the featured pet, followed by an eight-page illustrated story in rhyme. The simple texts are accessible to beginning readers, but there is little here for researchers who want to know how to feed, house, and take care of these animals. The stories, which sometimes add humor, feature multicultural children and their pets but don’t provide additional facts. The stock photos clearly show the creatures, though often their owners (mentioned in the text) are not in view. Each title also contains a page of “Fun Facts,” a quiz, and a note cautioning readers to further research the needs of unusual animals before bringing one home. PowerKids’s “Classroom Pets” series (2007) covers some of the same creatures in more detail, though it is at a higher reading level.

GRAY , Leon. Cane Toad: The World’s Biggest Toad. ISBN 978-1-61772-727-6; ISBN 978-1-61772-777-1.
––––. Flemish Giant Rabbit: The World’s Biggest Bunny. ISBN 978-1-61772-729-0; ISBN 978-1-61772-779-5.
––––. Giant Pacific Octopus: The World’s Largest Octopus. ISBN 978-1-61772-730-6; ISBN 978-1-61772-780-1.
––––. King Cobra: The World’s Longest Venomous Snake. ISBN 978-1-61772-732-0; ISBN 978-1-61772-782-5.
––––. Trumpeter Swan: The World’s Largest Waterbird. ISBN 978-1-61772-734-4; ISBN 978-1-61772-784-9.
––––. Walking Sticks: The World’s Longest Insects. ISBN 978-1-61772-733-7; ISBN 978-1-61772-783-2.
LUNIS , Natalie. Giant Weta: The World’s Biggest Grasshopper. ISBN 978-1-61772-731-3; ISBN 978-1-61772-781-8.
OLDFIELD , Dawn Bluemel. English Mastiff: The World’s Heaviest Dog. ISBN 978-1-61772-728-3; ISBN 978-1-61772-778-8.
ea vol: 24p. (Even More SuperSized! Series). diags. further reading. glossary. index. maps. photos. websites. Bearport. 2013. PLB $23.93; ebook $23.93.
Gr 1-3 –Browsers and report writers alike will enjoy this series about giant animals. Readers will learn about the featured animals’ diets, defenses, habitats (all titles include a map), physical characteristics, and life cycles. The size of the creatures is compared to objects young children would know, such as soccer balls, pencils, or refrigerators. Each spread features large, vibrant, color photos that emphasize the magnitude of the animals, a few sentences of text, and text boxes outlined in coordinating borders, such as dog collars or feathers, that offer additional facts (e.g., “One bite from a king cobra has enough poison to kill an elephant or 50 people”). Environmental issues and pet care are addressed in some titles. Just as in Bearport’s “SuperSized!” (2007) and “More SuperSized!” (2010), each book concludes with a list of related animals and a picture glossary, which will help students discover visually the meaning of new words.

GUILLAIN , Charlotte. Cats. ISBN 978-1-4109-4935-6; ISBN 978-1-4109-4940-0. LC 2012012895.
––––. Rabbits. ISBN 978-1-4109-4938-7; ISBN 978-1-4109-4943-1. LC 2012013030 .
MASON , Paul. Dogs. ISBN 978-1-4109-4936-3; ISBN 978-1-4109-4941-7. LC 2012013028.
––––. Horses and Ponies. ISBN 978-1-4109-4937-0; ISBN 978-1-4109-4942-4. LC 2012013029.
ea vol: 32p. (Animal Family Albums Series). further reading. glossary. illus. index. photos. websites. Raintree. 2013. PLB $29.99; pap. $7.99.
Gr 3-5 –A cartoon pet welcomes readers to each book, introducing it as a family album, and then helps presents facts on different pet breeds and their wild relatives. Students will learn how the animals grow, what they eat, and how their own pets are similar to creatures they may only have seen at the zoo. Information on how to care for pets is minimal. Kids will enjoy taking the quiz at the end of each title to see which breed they would be. True to the “family album” concept, the visually-appealing layout is much like a scrapbook with text boxes, color photos, and captions appearing to be taped, paper clipped, or otherwise fastened to the pages. Readers will want to pick these up for pleasure reading as well as research. Marshall Cavendish’s “Great Pets” series (2007) has similar information presented in a more standard narrative format, while Smart Apple’s “Pets Plus” (2012) has a greater focus on caring for pets.

JOHNSON , Jinny. Beagle. ISBN 978-1-59920-839-8. LC 2012008596.
––––. Boxer. ISBN 978-1-59920-840-4. LC 2012012139.
––––. Bulldog. ISBN 978-1-59920-841-1. LC 2012012142.
––––. German Shepherd. ISBN 978-1-59920-842-8. LC 2012012144.
––––. Golden Retriever. ISBN 978-1-59920-843-5. LC 2012008597.
––––. Labrador Retriever. ISBN 978-1-59920-844-2. LC 2012012145.
––––. Poodle. ISBN 978-1-59920-845-9. LC 2012012146.
––––. Yorkshire Terrier. ISBN 978-1-59920-846-6. LC 2012012147.
ea vol: 24p. (My Favorite Dogs Series). glossary. index. photos. Smart Apple. 2013. PLB $25.65.
Gr 1-3 –In the first two spreads, readers hear directly from the dogs themselves, with each canine describing its personality and its needs (e.g., lots of exercise, plenty of attention, etc.). After that, the simple text changes to a standard nonfiction narrative detailing the  breed’s development, training needs, and any special requirements to keep it healthy. Every title has a diagram of the dog’s physical characteristics and concludes with a brief index and glossary. This solid set stresses the importance of responsible pet ownership, noting that it’s often a long-term commitment. The accessible information will appeal to report writers while the color photos of the animals in action will lure in dog lovers. For those in need of more in-depth information, Lerner’s “The Best Dogs Ever” series (2010) covers some of the same breeds but for a slightly older audience.

LYNETTE , Rachel. Anacondas. ISBN 978-1-4488-9631-8; ISBN 978-1-4488-9870-1. LC 2012017220.
––––. Piranhas. ISBN 978-1-4488-9634-9; ISBN 978-1-4488-9873-2. LC 2012020041.
––––. Rats. ISBN 978-1-4488-9630-1; ISBN 978-1-4488-9869-5. LC 2012016786.
––––. Scorpions. ISBN 978-1-4488-9633-2; ISBN 978-1-4488-9872-5. LC 2012019920.
––––. Tarantulas. ISBN 978-1-4488-9632-5; ISBN 978-1-4488-9871-8. LC 2012017448.
––––. Vampire Bats. ISBN 978-1-4488-9629-5; ISBN 978-1-4488-9868-8. LC 2012016371.
ea vol: 24p. (Monsters of the Animal Kingdom Series). glossary. index. photos. websites. Rosen/PowerKids Pr. 2013. PLB $22.60; ebook $22.60.
Gr 2-5 –Kids have a continuing fascination with dangerous animals, so this series is sure to find an audience. In each title, students learn about the subject’s habitat, physical characteristics (with special focus on teeth or other frightening features), diet, family life, growth, predators, and relationship with people. A typical layout consists of two paragraphs of text accompanied by one or two large color photos with captions. A spread of “Scary Facts” (e.g., “Anacondas have been known to eat jaguars”) midway through every volume is ideal for quick sharing or booktalking. Though the headings of each section are rendered in a font reminiscent of a horror movie poster, the texts are surprisingly tame, and there is enough information for report writers as well as browsers.

ROCKWOOD , Leigh. Tell Me the Difference Between a Bee and a Wasp. diags. ISBN 978-1-4488-9639-4; ISBN 978-1-4488-9878-7. LC 2012022551.
––––. Tell Me the Difference Between a Frog and a Toad. ISBN 978-1-4488-9636-3; ISBN 978-1-4488-9875-6. LC 2012020317.
––––. Tell Me the Difference Between a Porcupine and a Hedgehog. ISBN 978-1-4488-9637-0; ISBN 978-1-4488-9876-3. LC 2012020399.
––––. Tell Me the Difference Between a Rabbit and a Hare. ISBN 978-1-4488-9638-7; ISBN 978-1-4488-9877-0. LC 2012022308.
––––. Tell Me the Difference Between a Seal and a Sea Lion. ISBN 978-1-4488-9640-0; ISBN 978-1-4488-9879-4. LC 2012023900.
––––. Tell Me the Difference Between an Alligator and a Crocodile. ISBN 978-1-4488-9635-6; ISBN 978-1-4488-9874-9. LC 2012019322.
ea vol: 24p. (How Are They Different? Series). chart. glossary. index. photos. websites. Rosen/PowerKids Pr. 2013. PLB $22.60; ebook $22.60.
Gr 3-5 –Children who have ever wondered how to differentiate between similar species should start with this series. Each title begins with an explanation of scientific classification, which can be a bit technical. (A chart would have been helpful.) Through describing the anatomy, diet, habitat, and life cycle of each species, the texts show how they are alike and not. A handy table midway through every volume makes comparison between creatures easy. The glossaries define most unfamiliar terms; however, some, such as “binocular vision” and “deciduous,” are not included. The large, color photos are captioned, though in one apparent error, a caption in Bee shows a wasps’ nest but notes that “Soon adult bees will come out.” These titles are best suited for readers who want  to learn about both subjects since it would be difficult to separate the information to report on one creature.

TWIST , Clint. The Life Cycle of Army Ants. ISBN 978-1-84898-517-9. LC 2012003594.
––––. The Life Cycle of Cockroaches. ISBN 978-1-84898-518-6. LC 2012003595.

––––. The Life Cycle of Dung Beetles. ISBN 978-1-84898-519-3. LC 2012003596.

––––. The Life Cycle of Fleas. ISBN 978-1-84898-520-9. LC 2012003597.

––––. The Life Cycle of Honey Bees. ISBN 978-1-84898-516-2. LC 2012003598.

––––. The Life Cycle of Tarantulas. ISBN 978-1-84898-521-6. LC 2012003599.

ea vol: 32p. (Creepy Crawlies Series). diags. glossary. index. photos. New Forest. 2013. PLB $28.50.
Gr 3-5 –Despite the titles, only a few pages of each book are devoted to the life cycles of their subjects. Researchers will also find information on body parts, habitat, diet, defenses, interactions with humans, and similar species. Every book ends with a selection of fascinating facts and a diagram, some more detailed than others, summarizing the insect’s or arachnid’s life cycle. The text is broken up into boxes, and each bright spread is interspersed with close-up color photos. Paint-speckled backgrounds add visual excitement; but sometimes the design elements fall on top of the text and photos, making them a challenge to see. In addition, some images are blurry, and one is incorrectly labeled. For those in need of more in-depth information, Crabtree’s “The Life Cycle” series covers similar species and devotes more space to their life cycles.

Grades 5 & Up

GAGNE, Tammy. Pointers: Loyal Hunting Companions. ISBN 978-1-4296-9908-2.
––––. Retrievers: Loyal Hunting Companions. ISBN 978-1-4296-9909-9.
––––. Spaniels: Loyal Hunting Companions. ISBN 978-1-4296-9907-5.
KARWOSKI , Gail Langer. Terriers: Loyal Hunting Companions. ISBN 978-1-4296-9989-1.
LEVINE , Becky D. Hounds: Loyal Hunting Companions. ISBN 978-1-4296-9990-7.
ZUCHORA-WALSKE , Christine. Setters: Loyal Hunting Companions. ISBN 978-1-4296-9906-8.
ea vol: 32p. (Edge Books: Hunting Dogs Series). charts. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $27.32.
Gr 4-7 –Each title initially draws readers in with a story about a dog at work. From there, the straightforward (though somewhat dry) text relates information about its history and how readers can select, train, and care for their own hunting companion. Information about different breeds is presented via both text and tables, and most of the breeds are pictured. “Dog Fact” text boxes deliver additional facts (e.g., “Many retrievers work as guide dogs, police dogs, search and rescue dogs, or therapy dogs”), and the clear, color photos will appeal to animal lovers. New words are defined both in the glossary at the back of the book and in text boxes on the bottom of the pages. These volumes would be best for readers who want to know how to train a hunting dog; for more general information on dog breeds, direct readers to the publisher’s “Edge Books: All About Dogs” or Lerner’s “Best Dogs Ever” series.

Kid-friendly and well organized for report writers, Bearport’s “Even More SuperSized!” would be a solid choice for most libraries. The high-interest subjects of PowerKids’s “Monsters of the Animal Kingdom” are sure to grab young readers’ attention, and, as a bonus, these titles are also helpful for researchers. Since the Common Core State Standards emphasize nonfiction reading for even the youngest students, libraries wishing to expand their collections may want to purchase Gareth Stevens’s “In My Backyard.” While there are many similar titles, Raintree’s “Animal Family Albums” has an attractive layout and would be an adequate choice to supplement a collection. Smart Apple’s “My Favorite Dogs” could also be an option for libraries that need to replace titles on dogs for early readers. In spite of some flaws, both Capstone’s “Edge Books: Hunting Dogs” and PowerKids’s “How Are They Different?” have a unique focus.

Kings and queens. Generals and enlisted men. Flamboyant outlaws and gangsters. Intrepid explorers and treasure hunters. Much of the world’s history has been made by people who lived outsized lives, pursued outsized dreams, or achieved outsized deeds. Some began with the advantages of inherited riches and power, while others started with nothing but a desire for fame and fortune. Though in recent years, historical scholarship has largely veered away from exploring how the actions of “great men” have changed the past, this group of books reverses that trend. Many of this season’s series focus on the some of the world’s most interesting characters and how their stories have affected the course of events for both the better and the worse.

Preschool-Grade 4

LEE, Sally. Castles and Palaces. ISBN 978-1-62065-121-6. LC 2012030331.
––––. Kings and Queens. ISBN 978-1-62065-123-0. LC 2012030332.
––––. Knights. ISBN 978-1-62065-122-3. LC 2012030333.
––––. Princes and Princesses. ISBN 978-1-62065-124-7. LC 2012030335.
ea vol: 24p. (Pebble Plus: Royalty Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $24.65.
K-Gr 2–These attractive books take beginning readers into the world of historical and contemporary royalty and knights, providing basic introductions and examples of families, their work and activities, and homes. Designed to conform to national elementary standards, the titles each have word counts of about 180, first-grade reading levels, and simple text structures with repetition of key words. The uncluttered spreads feature bright, full-page color photos or illustrations on the right and a few sentences on the left. The photo captions–which include the names of a diverse group of rulers, castles, and countries drawn from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East–will be most challenging for the intended audience to read and/or take in. Glossaries offer simple definitions of challenging vocabulary. Suitable for both reading aloud and independent reading, these volumes will have broad appeal.

Grades 5 & Up

ARONIN , Miriam. Merciless Monarchs and Ruthless Royalty. ISBN 978-1-4677-0607-0; ISBN 978-1-4677-1035-0. LC 2012027291.
DONALDSON , Madeline. Pirates, Scoundrels, and Scallywags. ISBN 978-1-4677-0606-3; ISBN 978-1-4677-1033-6. LC 2012018927.
DONOVAN , Sandy. Lethal Leaders and Military Madmen. ISBN 978-1-4677-0609-4; ISBN 978-1-4677-1032-9. LC 2012018444.
LANDAU , Elaine. Assassins, Traitors, and Spies. ISBN 978-1-4677-0608-7; ISBN 978-1-4677-1030-5. LC 2012013841.
SCHWARTZ , Heather E. Gangsters, Bootleggers, and Bandits. ISBN 978-1-4677-0604-9; ISBN 978-1-4677-1031-2. LC 201201724.
––––. Outlaws, Gunslingers, and Thieves. ISBN 978-1-4677-0605-6; ISBN 978-1-4677-1036-7. LC 2012019113.
ea vol: 32p. (ShockZone: Villains Series). further reading. index. photos. reprods. websites. Lerner. 2013. PLB $26.60; ebook $19.95.
Gr 5-8 –These high-interest, brief books deliver information about some of history’s most notorious villains, most in two-page biographical sketches that relate their nefarious deeds without delving into gory details. While popular topics such as pirates and outlaws will always attract an audience, the brevity of each profile means that this set does not deliver enough background information to help readers fully place many of these people into historical contexts (such as Prohibition or the Cold War) and/or explain their actions. That weakness is most obvious in Monarchs, Assassins, and Gangsters, in which students may find the actions of “Bloody Mary,” Al Capone, and others mystifying. Full-color and black-and-white photos and reproductions, word definitions in text boxes, and sidebars supplement the short biographies. Most of these figures have been written about in extant titles, making these books additional choices for reluctant readers.

BARBER , Nicola. Lost Cities. ISBN 978-1-4109-4952-3; ISBN 978-1-4109-4959-2. LC 2012012891.
––––. Tomb Explorers. ISBN 978-1-4109-4955-4; ISBN 978-1-4109-4962-2. LC 2012012894.
GUILLAIN , Charlotte. Great Art Thefts. ISBN 978-1-4109-4951-6; ISBN 978-1-4109-4958-5. LC 2012012759.
HUNTER , Nick. Ancient Treasures. ISBN 978-1-4109-4950-9; ISBN 978-1-4109-4957-8. LC 2012012757.
––––. Pirate Treasure. ISBN 978-1-4109-4953-0; ISBN 978-1-4109-4960-8. LC 2012012890.
––––. Shipwrecks. ISBN 978-1-4109-4954-7; ISBN 978-1-4109-4961-5. LC 2012012892.
ea vol: 48p. (Treasure Hunters Series). reprods. chron. further reading. glossary. illus. index. photos. websites. Raintree. 2013. PLB $31.43; pap. $8.99.
Gr 5-8 –Readers of these exciting titles will join searches for some of the planet’s most storied places and legendary treasures. After helpful introductions that lay foundations so children will understand why thieves might want to steal art or treasure hunters take such risks, each volume contains chapters that follow the discovery and/or quests for objects such as “Roman Riches” or locations such as the legendary city of Troy. This format allows for development of topics and inclusion of sufficient background information. Concluding spreads nicely pull together themes and facts. The attractive full-color photos and illustrations of expeditions, explorers, and artifacts are both appealing and informative. While this set captures the thrill of the hunt, it also emphasizes the historical and cultural value of the treasures and how serendipitous discoveries and challenging missions have improved historians’ understanding of the past.

BURGAN , Michael. World War II Pilots: An Interactive History Adventure. ISBN 978-1-4296-9899-3; ISBN 978-1-62065-718-8.
––––. World War II Spies: An Interactive History Adventure. ISBN 978-1-4296-9898-6; ISBN 978-1-62065-722-5.
OTFINOSKI , Steven. World War II Infantrymen: An Interactive History Adventure. ISBN 978-1-4296-9964-8; ISBN 978-1-62065-716-4.
RAUM , Elizabeth. World War II Naval Forces: An Interactive History Adventure. ISBN 978-1-4296-4780-9; ISBN 978-1-62065-720-1.
ea vol: 112p. (You Choose: World War II Series). bibliog. chron. further reading. glossary. index. maps. photos. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $31.32; pap. $6.95.
Gr 4-6–Adventure seekers will enjoy the choices they are given in the fast-paced, fictional (but historically accurate) World War II scenarios in these books. Each volume has an “About Your Adventure” introduction, followed by a chapter that orients readers in the time period. Students are given three initial story paths, which lead to numerous choices and many different endings, all set in important or notable battles. The primary characters include Allied fighters (one a Tuskegee Airman) and Germans, but no Japanese fighters. Readers will quickly see that even seemingly simple choices have life or death consequences. The mostly black-and-white period photos add realism, while maps, time lines, and captions add additional facts. Though these engaging texts are not replacements for traditional nonfiction, they will help readers understand the horrors and dangers of battle.

COOKE , Tim. The Exploration of Africa. maps. ISBN 978-1-4339-8611-6; ISBN 978-1-4339-8614-7. LC 2012024372.
––––. The Exploration of Arabia and Asia. ISBN 978-1-4339-8615-4; ISBN 978-1-4339-8618-5. LC 2012037842.
––––. The Exploration of Australasia and the Pacific. ISBN 978-1-4339-8619-2; ISBN 978-1-4339-8622-2. LC 2012037757.
––––. The Exploration of North America. ISBN 978-1-4339-8623-9; ISBN 978-1-4339-8626-0. LC 2012021921.
––––. The Exploration of South America. ISBN 978-1-4339-8627-7; ISBN 978-1-4339-8630-7. LC 201204534.
––––. The Exploration of the North and South Poles. ISBN 978-1-4339-8631-4; ISBN 978-1-4339-8634-5. LC 2012039586.
ea vol: 48p. (Explorers Discovering the World Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. reprods. websites. Gareth Stevens. 2013. PLB $31.95; ebook $31.95.
Gr 4-6 –Attractive presentations can’t overcome the weaknesses of the texts’ superficial summaries. Loosely organized by sections that focus on expeditions, explorers, or specific regions, the journeys covered mostly follow the exploits of famous European or American men, but a few Asian, female, and indigenous people are featured. The books focus more on exploration routes than on analysis of the reasons for the expeditions or their historical effects. The design combines limited text, sidebars and text boxes, reproductions, and stunning location photos. However, there are no contemporary maps, which will leave some readers feeling confused since the texts discuss so many specific routes. Poles erroneously claims that the South Pole receives less sunlight than the North Pole. The combination of all these flaws and the lack of analysis limits the effectiveness of this set–especially since exploration is a topic with wide coverage in extant titles.

DURMAN , Laura. Castle Life. ISBN 978-1-84858-560-7. LC 2011051440.
––––. Knights. ISBN 978-1-84858-561-4. LC 201101452.
––––. Siege. ISBN 978-1-84858-562-1. LC 2011051446.
HUMPHREY , Paul. Building a Castle. ISBN 978-1-84858-559-1. LC 2011051450.
ea vol: 32p. (Knights and Castles Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. reprods. websites. Arcturus. 2013. PLB $28.50.
Gr 4-6 –Large, full-color photographs and illustrations distinguish this series, which gives emerging readers a fascinating glimpse into the medieval world. With each spread devoted to a subject (e.g., “Personal protection,” “Castle defenses,” and “Banquets and feasts”), the books cover a wide range of topics such as weapons, castle construction, food, religion, and the structure and hierarchy of society. Though the texts are limited, they are well integrated with the appealing illustrations, which include contemporary photos of re-enactors and intact castles and ruins, art reproductions, and cutaways. Many images are also labeled with captions that introduce new words, which will increase vocabulary comprehension. Although these books do not present information that has not already been covered by existing sets, their clear, readable prose and illustration-focused format will attract and hold the attention of browsers and aid report writers. Strong new or replacement choices.

FORAN , Racquel. Knights. diags. maps. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-724-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-815-2; ISBN 978-1-61783-774-6. LC 2012946375.
GITLIN , Martin. Green Berets. chart. maps. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-723-4; ISBN 978-1-61480-814-5; ISBN 978-1-61783-773-9. LC 2012946369.
––––. Vikings. maps. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-729-6; ISBN 978-1-61480-820-6; ISBN 978-1-61783-779-1. LC 2012946373.
HEPPERMANN , Christine. Samurai. charts. diags. maps. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-727-2; ISBN 978-1-61480-818-3; ISBN 978-1-61783-777-7. LC 2012946371.
HOBLIN , Paul. Gladiators. maps. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-722-7; ISBN 978-1-61480-813-8; ISBN 978-1-61783-772-2. LC 2012946376.
MARCINIAK , Kristin. Navy SEALs. charts. diags. ISBN 978-1-61783-725-8; ISBN 978-1-61480-816-9; ISBN 978-1-61783-775-3. LC 2012946370.
MOONEY , Carla. Ninjas. charts. diags. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-726-5; ISBN 978-1-61480-817-6; ISBN 978-1-61783-776-0. LC 2012946374.
OTFINOSKI , Steven. Spartans. maps. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-728-9; ISBN 978-1-61480-819-0; ISBN 978-1-61783-778-4. LC 2012946372.
ea vol: 48p. (Great Warriors Series). chron. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. ABDO/Core Library. 2013. PLB $32.79; ebook $32.79; pap. $15.64.
Gr 4-6 –Each title opens with an account of a dramatic battle or operation, followed by chapters about its featured warriors’  history, recruitment and training, weapons and tactics, and lifestyle. The volumes are clearly designed and written with the Common Core State Standards in mind. The texts are paired with captioned, average-quality photos and reproductions and maps. Sidebars include primary-source excerpts, additional facts, and/or prompts to elicit critical-thinking skills (for example, many passages ask readers to compare the way information is presented in the book to the way the same facts are delivered on a website). “Stop and Think” sections at the end of each title suggest independent research and writing activities. Though the set is accurate and informative enough for research projects and reports, it has a textbooklike quality that might be off-putting to some students and lacks the visual appeal found in the many series about military subjects.

All of these books describe how larger-than-life people have changed world history, but most of their stories have been told, in some cases many times, in extant series, making it difficult for authors and publishers to either improve on coverage or find a new perspective. Four of the sets manage to do so. Capstone’s “Pebble Plus: Royalty” offers high-quality illustrations and controlled vocabulary to help beginning readers learn about people and cultures identified in learning standards. Arcturus’s “Knights and Castles” integrates outstanding images with clearly written texts that will help middle-level readers understand the hierarchies and structures of the medieval period. Raintree’s “Treasure Hunters” captures the thrill of the hunt for all types of treasure–even as the set emphasizes that the true value of most of the world’s “treasure” is historical and cultural. Finally, Capstone’s “You Choose: World War II” merits consideration because of its departure from the traditional nonfiction format, creating historically accurate and exciting scenarios that allow students to choose their own paths as combatants in the Second World War.

Preschool-Grade 4

GANERI, Anita. Hearing. ISBN 978-1-59920-851-0. LC 2012004122.
––––. Sight. ISBN 978-1-59920-852-7. LC 2012004123.
––––. Smell. ISBN 978-1-59920-853-4. LC 2012004124.
––––. Taste. ISBN 978-1-59920-854-1. LC 2012008594.
––––. Touch. ISBN 978-1-59920-855-8. LC 2012008595.
ea vol: 24p. (Senses Series). diags. glossary. index. photos. Smart Apple. 02013. PLB $25.65.
K-Gr 2–A sense-related question draws students into the topic, and a diagram orients them to all five senses at the beginning of each volume in this set. In the simple terms, the texts that follow discuss what each particular sense provides and the organs involved and how they work. Opportunities for vocabulary development are lost when words like  “wobble,” “bits,” “spit,” and “tubes” are used as substitutes for  “vibrate,” “particles,” “saliva,” and “blood vessels.” The series is also weakened by a typo in Smell and a passage in Sight in which readers are told, “Your eyeballs are made from jelly.” A final spread shares three or four facts that extend the topic. The oversize text is brief with even larger highlighted keywords. Captions and labels describe illustrations and diagrams. The stock photos are clear, colorful, and generally work well with the texts. Glossaries include four words, mostly from the highlighted keywords. Overall, a flawed series.

GRAY , Leon. Food Webs. ISBN 978-1-4339-8707-6; ISBN 978-1-4339-8710-6. LC 2012026615.
––––. Life in Extreme Places. ISBN 978-1-4339-8715-1; ISBN 978-1-4339-8718-2. LC 2012026470.
––––. Plant Classification. ISBN 978-1-4339-8719-9; ISBN 978-1-4339-8722-9. LC 2012023552.
ROYSTON , Angela. Animal Classification. ISBN 978-1-4339-8703-8; ISBN 978-1-4339-8706-9. LC 2012026469.
––––. Life Cycles. ISBN 978-1-4339-8711-3; ISBN 978-1-4339-8714-4. LC 2012026471.
SPILSBURY , Louise & Richard Spilsbury. Adaptation and Survival. ISBN 978-1-4339-8699-4; ISBN 978-1-4339-8702-1. LC 2012026472.
ea vol: 32p. (Life Science Stories Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Gareth Stevens. 2013. PLB $26.60; ebook $26.60.
Gr 3-5 –This series tries to relay complex science information with unsuccessful results. The content is presented in chapter spreads with little space devoted to the main text. Photos (usually two) and a text box fill up the remaining real estate. The quality of the color photos is satisfactory, but occasionally they are misrepresented by their captions or are at odds with the main text. There are several instances that lack necessary diagrams and labels to clarify the science. Poor word choice and simplistic definitions detract from the instructional value. For example, Classification describes a shark’s cartilage as “bendier than bone.” Overall, individual volumes may serve as springboards for a unit or to fill a gap in a collection, but many more successful titles are available.

HALVORSON , Karin. Inside the Brain. ISBN 978-1-61783-609-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-763-6. LC 2012028763.
––––. Inside the Ears. ISBN 978-1-61783-610-7; ISBN 978-1-61480-764-3. LC 2012028770.
––––. Inside the Eyes. ISBN 978-1-61783-611-4; ISBN 978-1-61480-765-0. LC 2012028771.
––––. Inside the Heart. ISBN 978-1-61783-612-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-766-7. LC 2012030978.
––––. Inside the Lungs. ISBN 978-1-61783-613-8; ISBN 978-1-61480-767-4. LC 2012030857.
––––. Inside the Stomach. ISBN 978-1-61783-614-5; ISBN 978-1-61480-768-1. LC 2012030858.
ea vol: 32p. (Super Simple Body Series). diags. glossary. illus. photos. ABDO. 2013. PLB $27.07; ebook $27.07.
Gr 2-4–Each volume explains its subject’s location, parts, and function. Some titles extend their focus: Stomach, for example, contains information about the digestive system. Oversize text in short paragraphs; “Fast Facts” text boxes; kid-friendly, tongue-in-cheek headings, such as “Passing Gasses” (Lungs); and guiding questions keep the content engaging. The controlled vocabulary uses appropriate technical terms or provides a workable substitution. The design is cohesive and friendly. Numerous visuals, including diagrams, drawings, and color photographs, fill the pages–though more labels would have been helpful to aid students in identify body parts, etc. Unfortunately, the three-to-seven activities per title are disappointing. Though they are meant to support the texts, they often miss their marks with confusing instructions, too-small photos, and uninspired ideas.

RILEY , Joelle. Examining Erosion. ISBN 978-1-4677-0021-4; ISBN 978-1-4677-1019-0. LC 2012022474.
STORAD , Conrad J. Uncovering Earth’s Crust. maps. ISBN 978-1-4677-0020-7; ISBN 978-1-4677-1018-3. LC 2012017604.
WALKER , Sally M. Figuring Out Fossils. ISBN 978-1-4677-0019-1; ISBN 978-1-4677-1020-6. LC 2012013840.
––––. Marveling at Minerals. chart. ISBN 978-1-4677-0022-1; ISBN 978-1-4677-1021-3. LC 2012010392. ––––.
Researching Rocks. maps. ISBN 978-1-4677-0018-4; ISBN 978-1-4677-1022-0. LC 2012017606.
––––. Studying Soil. ISBN 978-1-4677-0023-8; ISBN 978-1-4677-1023-7. LC 2012022475.
ea vol: 40p. (Searchlight Books: Do You Dig Earth Science? Series). diags. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Lerner. 2013. PLB $27.93; ebook $20.95.
Gr 3-6–These traditional presentations cover the rudiments of earth science with mixed results. In an effort to keep things introductory, theories are sometimes stated as facts and important terms and details lack emphasis and clear explanations. With its relatively simple topic, Soil is the strongest title, while Crust is the most confusing because it attempts to explain too much too quickly. Photos and diagrams with descriptive captions are included, sometimes only adding confusion. Other topics beg for further visual clarification. Fossils, Crust, and Minerals touch upon scientists’ roles. Half-hearted suggestions for hands-on activities show up in Rocks and Soil. Most titles end with an explanation of the topic’s relevance or how readers can become involved in protecting or studying them. Teaching resources are available from the publisher’s website.

SPILSBURY , Louise. Garbage Can: Look Inside. ISBN 978-1-4329-7195-3; ISBN 978-1-4329-7202-8. LC 2012011814.
––––. Pond: Look Inside . ISBN 978-1-4329-7196-0; ISBN 978-1-4329-7203-5. LC 2012011818.
––––. Tide Pool: Look Inside. ISBN 978-1-4329-7197-7; ISBN 978-1-4329-7204-2. LC 2012011821.
SPILSBURY , Richard. Burrow: Look Inside. ISBN 978-1-4329-7193-9; ISBN 978-1-4329-7200-4. LC 2012011713.
––––. Cave: Look Inside. ISBN 978-1-4329-7194-6; ISBN 978-1-4329-7201-1. LC 2012011711.
––––. Tree: Look Inside. ISBN 978-1-4329-7198-4; ISBN 978-1-4329-7205-9. LC 2012011822.
ea vol: 32p. (Look Inside Series). further reading. glossary. illus. index. photos. websites. Heinemann. 2013. PLB $26; pap. $7.99.
K-Gr 2–These introductions explore habitats top to bottom. A table of contents diagram identifies four distinct strata (for example, a tide pool is divided into “At the Top,” “On the Rocks,” “In the Water,” and “Rock Bottom”), and goes on to examine three animals that eat, reproduce, or live at each level. This artificial division usually works, but in Garbage Can it falters; many of the inhabitants are more typically found in a compost pile than the garbage cans most readers are familiar with. Captioned color photographs with images of each animal and an occasional label support the texts closely. Rare species of fish, mammals, birds, and insects are introduced, but intrigued young researchers may struggle to find further facts about them. The final spreads offer additional general information about each habitat, including facts about more animals, safety tips, or seasonal influences.

TURNBULL , Stephanie. Fall. ISBN 978-1-59920-849-7. LC 2012004120.
––––. Spring. ISBN 978-1-59920-847-3. LC 2012004118.
––––. Summer. ISBN 978-1-59920-848-0. LC 2012004119.
––––. Winter. ISBN 978-1-59920-850-3. LC 2012004121.
ea vol: 24p. (Seasons Series). glossary. index. photos. Smart Apple. 2013. PLB $25.65.
PreS-Gr 2–Animals, plants, and weather are the focus in this series. Each title begins with a listing of the months in the season, the length of the days, and the general type of weather the season brings. Animal behaviors are featured, including migration (Fall), the metamorphosis of butterflies and frogs, (Summer), and hibernation (Fall and Winter). Most titles reference some holidays or multicultural festivals. Only Christmas and Valentine’s Day are mentioned in Winter. Text placement, color and size, plus onomatopoeia provide reading cues, but the glossaries are not thorough and the design is uneven across the volumes. A closing “Did You Know…?” spread in each book offers four facts, including the opposing season in the Southern Hemisphere. Border-to-border color photos provide backgrounds with additional photo insets overlaid.

Grades 5 & Up

ALLEN, Kathy. Wind Power. ISBN 978-1-61080-900-9; ISBN 978-1-61080-925-2; ISBN 978-1-61080-950-4. LC 2012033414.
BETHEA , Nikole Brooks. Oil and Coal. diags. ISBN 978-1-61080-897-2; ISBN 978-1-61080-922-1; ISBN 978-1-61080-947-4. LC 2012032568.
BRENNAN , Linda Crotto. Geothermal Power. ISBN 978-1-61080-894-1; ISBN 978-1-61080-919-1; ISBN 978-1-61080-944-3. LC 2012033418.
DUKE , Shirley. Nuclear Power. ISBN 978-1-61080-896-5; ISBN 978-1-61080-921-4; ISBN 978-1-61080-946-7. LC 2012032788.
NEWMAN , Patricia. Biofuels. diags. ISBN 978-1-61080-893-4; ISBN 978-1-61080-918-4; ISBN 978-1-61080-943-6. LC 2012030463.
––––. Water Power. ISBN 978-1-61080-899-6; ISBN 978-1-61080-924-5; ISBN 978-1-61080-949-8. LC 2012033416.
ROWELL , Rebecca. Natural Gas. ISBN 978-1-61080-895-8; ISBN 978-1-61080-920-7; ISBN 978-1-61080-945-0. LC 2012031310.
VOGEL , Julia. Solar Power. ISBN 978-1-61080-898-9; ISBN 978-1-61080-923-8; ISBN 978-1-61080-948-1. LC 2012030464.
ea vol: 32p. (Language Arts Explorer: Energy Lab Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Cherry Lake. 2013. PLB $28.50; pap. $14.21; ebook $28.50.
Gr 4-6–This series offers a timely introduction to energy resources, their advantages, disadvantages, and future outlooks of different options. Opening sections lay out a challenge with two or three general questions. The remaining chapters follow a fictitious researcher through the primary research process. Most missions begin with a science teacher providing fundamental information, then move on to a diverse assortment of scientists, engineers, tour guides, plant managers, etc. Each journal entry concludes with the purpose for the next visit. Text boxes explain related concepts. A quick review and a short list of recall statements and comprehension questions end each challenge. Two routine “Further Missions” extension ideas are included, though they are sometimes unrelated to the content or too difficult. Diagrams are rare; more would help explain confusing topics, such as how a ground source heat pump works. The adequate photos on nearly every other page sometimes don’t match their captions. This set is almost identical in treatment and content to the “Examining Energy” series (Oliver Press).

ANNISS , Matt. The Science of Earthquakes. ISBN 978-1-4339-8655-0; ISBN 978-1-4339-8658-1. LC 2012025889.
––––. The Science of Tornadoes. ISBN 978-1-4339-8663-5; ISBN 978-1-4339-8666-6. LC 2012023548.
GRAY , Leon. The Science of Tsunamis. ISBN 978-1-4339-8667-3; ISBN 978-1-4339-8670-3. LC 2012034535.
ROYSTON , Angela. The Science of Hurricanes. ISBN 978-1-4339-8659-8; ISBN 978-1-4339-8662-8. LC 2012037758.
––––. The Science of Volcanoes. ISBN 978-1-4339-8671-0; ISBN 978-1-4339-8674-1. LC 2012022953.
SPILSBURY , Richard. The Science of Avalanches. ISBN 978-1-4339-8651-2; ISBN 978-1-4339-8654-3. LC 2012037760.
ea vol: 48p. (Nature’s Wrath: The Science Behind Natural Disasters Series). further reading. glossary. index. maps. photos. websites. Gareth Stevens. 2013. PLB $31.95; ebook $31.95.
Gr 4-6–This series keeps the science introductory but provides plenty of real-life examples of hurricanes, avalanches, etc., many from the last decade and some as recent as summer 2012. Four chapters in each title cover the science involved, the technology in use, effects of the disaster, and future outlook and preparedness. “Real-Life Science” sections use actual catastrophes to elucidate the science being covered. Quotes from victims and images of scientists and emergency and rescue workers in action offer the human side of the topics. Avalanches and Earthquakes include possible manmade triggers (however, fracking is not one of them), but climate change is not mentioned in any of the volumes. Bright background colors, color photos with captions, and a variety of insets provide further information and examples. The maps are too narrow in focus, and more labeled diagrams and tables would aid comprehension. Avalanches and Hurricanes have minor problems with clarity.

BOYLE , Jordan. Examining Geothermal Energy. ISBN 978-1-934545-41-6; ISBN 978-1-934545-492. LC 2012035244.
––––. Examining Wind Energy. ISBN 978-1-934545-47-8; ISBN 978-1-934545-553. LC 2012035318.
BRIGHT , Sandra. Examining Natural Gas. ISBN 978-1-934545-42-3; ISBN 978-1-934545-508. LC 2012035248.
––––. Examining Solar Energy. ISBN 978-1-934545-45-4; ISBN 978-1-934545-539. LC 20120358316.
COOKE , Rebecca. Examining Nuclear Energy. ISBN 978-1-934545-43-0; ISBN 978-1-934545-515. LC 2012036476.
––––. Examining Water Power. ISBN 978-1-934545-46-1; ISBN 978-1-934545-546. LC 2012035317.
ROBERTSON , Chase. Examining Biofuels. ISBN 978-1-934545-40-9; ISBN 978-1-934545-485. LC 2012035242.
––––. Examining Oil and Coal. ISBN 978-1-934545-44-7; ISBN 978-1-934545-522. LC 2012035249.
ea vol: 48p. (Examining Energy Series). bibliog. diags. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Oliver/Clara House. 2013. PLB $24.95; ebook $24.95.
Gr 6-8–These handsome volumes charge readers with investigating different energy sources. The texts are framed as fictitious research journals that examine the history, science, and future outlook of wind energy, nuclear energy, etc. Pros and cons are included with each option. Using an identical treatment to Cherry Lake’s “Language Arts Explorer: Energy Lab” and very similar texts, this series offers some improvements. More pages and an older intended audience allow for more in-depth coverage. Additional historical information, better scientific explanations, and extended future outlooks round-out the content. For example, an entire chapter on fracking is included in Natural Gas but only briefly mentioned in the comparable volume in “Energy Lab.” The larger format accommodates clear color photos and diagrams missing from that set. The questions in the concluding chapter of every volume provide opportunities for written and oral analysis and debate, requiring a thorough understanding of the text. Three suggested activities, which include guiding questions, could inspire readers to pursue further exploration.

CLAYBOURNE , Anna. Mental Development: From Birth to Old Age. ISBN 978-1-4329-7085-7; ISBN 978-1-4329-7092-5.
ROONEY , Anne. Your Physical Body: From Birth to Old Age. ISBN 978-1-4329-7087-1; ISBN 978-1-4329-7094-9.
SNEDDEN , Robert. Nutrition: From Birth to Old Age. ISBN 978-1-4329-7086-4; ISBN 978-1-4329-7093-2.
SOLWAY , Andrew. Exercise: From Birth to Old Age. ISBN 978-1-4329-7083-3; ISBN 978-1-4329-7090-1.
SPILSBURY , Louise. Health and Disease: From Birth to Old Age. ISBN 978-1-4329-7084-0; ISBN 978-1-4329-7091-8.
SPILSBURY , Richard. Emotions: From Birth to Old Age . ISBN 978-1-4329-7082-6; ISBN 978-1-4329-7089-5.
ea vol: 64p. (Your Body for Life Series). chron. charts. diags. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Heinemann. 2013. PLB $35; pap. $9.99.
Gr 7-9–These titles discuss the milestones, challenges, and concerns people experience as their bodies change throughout their lives. Each volume opens with a broad overview,  followed by five-to-seven chapters that begin with infancy and end with old age. The presentations are mostly balanced. For example, Nutrition touches upon health, eating disorders, and different kinds of diets, among many other topics. Color photographs, diagrams, and graphs illustrate the pages. “Amazing But True!” text boxes, sidebars, and captions add details and background information. Chapters conclude with a short recall quiz with answers. Either a supplementary spread of facts or a time line is appended along with suggestions of places to visit, extension ideas, and lists of print and web resources. Unfortunately, inconsistencies, labeling problems, and other issues mar the series.

FAULK , Michelle. The Case of Sneezy Popcorn: Annie Biotica Solves Respiratory System Disease Crimes. ISBN 978-0-7660-3946-9.
––––. The Case of the Flesh-Eating Bacteria: Annie Biotica Solves Skin Disease Crimes. ISBN 978-0-7660-3945-2.
––––. The Case of the Infected Tick: Annie Biotica Solves Circulatory System Disease Crimes. ISBN 978-0-7660-3948-3.
––––. The Case of the Rusty Nail: Annie Biotica Solves Nervous System Disease Crimes. ISBN 978-0-7660-3949-0.
––––. The Case of the Undercooked Burger: Annie Biotica Solves Digestive System Disease Crimes. ISBN 978-1-4644-0229-6.
ea vol: 48p. (Body System Disease Investigations Series). charts. diags. further reading. glossary. illus. index. photos. websites. Enslow. 2013. PLB $23.93.
Gr 5-8 –Using a CSI-style methodology and the scientific process, disease scene investigator Annie Biotica unravels mystery illnesses. Each volume includes five cases that are all related to the featured body system. After an introduction, the case studies typically follow the same format: “The Crime,” “The Clues,” “The Suspect[s],” “The Evidence” (which is culled from one to two lab tests), “The Verdict,” and the treatment or “Justice.” Bacteria contains an additional “Protect Yourself” section, and Popcorn follows up a of couple cases. Diseases and lab tests are explained, and preventative measures are included. The verdicts don’t flinch with failed treatments occasionally resulting in death (AIDS in Infected Tick and rabies in Rusty Nail. “You Solve the Case” scenarios use guiding questions to help readers solve medical mysteries on their own–though answers are included in the back of the books. Despite some inconsistencies, odd language choices, and typos, this set is exciting and informative. Color photos with plenty of gross-out close-ups and numerous illustrations add to the appeal.

The timely topic and use of primary sources in Cherry Lake’s “Language Arts Explorer: Energy Lab” will make the set easy to use for instruction on research. Oliver Press’s “Examining Energy” covers the same content for a slightly older audience and offers ways to assess students’ understanding and use of the text, a major requirement of the CCSS. The high-interest content, real-life examples, and detailed time lines make Gareth Stevens’s “Nature’s Wrath: The Science Behind Natural Disasters” a desirable addition to many collections. Use any of the many realistic fiction titles on similar topics to provide opportunities for comparison or pair these with matching titles from the “Edge Books: Epic Disasters” series (Capstone, 2012). The CSI-like approach and use of analytical thinking in Enslow’s “Body System Disease Investigations” means it is not only an engaging read, but it’s also an interesting introduction to diseases. For more background, have students compare them to related titles in the “Health Alerts” series (Marshall Cavendish) or others from your collection. Heinemann’s “Look Inside” delivers a fresh look at habitats and rich opportunities for further exploration and research. Despite the disappointing activities, ABDO’s “Super Simple Body” offers plenty of information. The multiple nonfiction tools in this series gives educators numerous entry points for instruction on reading to learn.

Preschool-Grade 4

AXELROD-CONTRADA, Joan . Halloween and Day of the Dead Traditions Around the World. ISBN 978-1-61-473427-7. LC 2012946512.
COSSON, M. J. Easter Traditions Around the World. ISBN 978-1-61-473426-0. LC 2012946511.
––––. Wishing Traditions Around the World. ISBN 978-1-61-473431-4. LC 2012946515.
INGALLS, Ann. Birthday Traditions Around the World. ISBN 978-1-61-473424-6. LC 2012946509.
––––. Christmas Traditions Around the World. ISBN 978-1-61-473425-3. LC 2012946510.
KESSELRING, Susan. National Day Traditions Around the World. ISBN 978-1-61-473428-4. LC 2012946513.
MALASPINA, Ann. New Year Traditions Around the World. ISBN 978-1-61-473429-1. LC 2012946514.
––––. Tooth Traditions Around the World. ISBN 978-1-61-473430-7. LC 2012946516.
ea vol: illus. by Elisa Chavarri. 32p. (World Traditions Series). further reading. glossary. index. maps. photos. websites. The Child’s World. 2013. PLB $27.07.
Gr 3-5 -Readers are introduced to the different beliefs and holiday celebrations of people around the globe. For example, Birthday covers events such as quinceañeras and Bar Mitzvahs and Bat Mitzvahs. The sections are concise (usually one spread or a single page) and arranged by countries or belief traditions with text providing the history and origins, songs, and celebrations of the traditions introduced. Vivid, full-page illustrations and photographs appear throughout. Maps and occasional captions (e.g., “The lucky magpie takes Korean children’s lost teeth.”) provide additional facts. Each title contains a “Hands-On” activity and an “Up Close” section that extends the topics with crafts, stories, songs, and recipes. Though nothing spectacular, this series integrates visual information and broad facts well, making it a general purchase for most collections.

ENDERLEIN, Cheryl L. Christmas in England. illus. ISBN 978-1-62065-141-4. LC 2012026286.
––––. Christmas in Mexico. ISBN 978-1-62065-138-4. LC 2012026287.
––––. Christmas in Sweden. ISBN 978-1-62065-140-7. LC 2012026284.
––––. Christmas in the Philippines. ISBN 978-1-62065-139-1. LC 2012026462.
ea vol: 24p. (First Facts: Christmas Around the World Series). further reading. glossary. index. maps. photos. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $24.65.
Gr 2-4 –Short chapters deliver general information while text boxes define related terms and extend key ideas. Each book opens with a map and “How to Say It!” section that explains the country’s holiday greeting. The large, color stock photos seem repetitive. Every title includes a “Hands-On” craft  that contributes to readers’ understanding of the celebration. Students looking for more information can get it on the publisher’s website, which is accessible through a link provided in the back matter. Though an additional purchase, this set would be useful for comparing and contrasting different customs and supporting Christmas-around-the-world units.

FELIX, Rebecca. How’s the Weather in Fall? ISBN 978-1-61080-902-3; ISBN 978-1-61080-927-6; ISBN 978-1-61080-952-8. LC 2012030453.
––––. We Celebrate Halloween in Fall. ISBN 978-1-61080-903-0; ISBN 978-1-61080-928-3; ISBN 978-1-61080-953-5. LC 2012030455.
––––. We Celebrate Thanksgiving in Fall. ISBN 978-1-61080-904-7; ISBN 978-1-61080-929-0; ISBN 978-1-61080-954-2. LC 2012030457.
––––. We Harvest Apples in Fall. ISBN 978-1-61080-905-4; ISBN 978-1-61080-930-6; ISBN 978-1-61080-955-9. LC 2012030458.
––––. We Harvest Pumpkins in Fall. ISBN 978-1-61080-906-1; ISBN 978-1-61080-931-3; ISBN 978-1-61080-956-6. LC 2012030459.
––––. What Do Animals Do in Fall? ISBN 978-1-61080-907-8; ISBN 978-1-61080-932-0; ISBN 978-1-61080-957-3. LC 2012030460.
––––. What Do People Do in Fall? ISBN 978-1-61080-908-5; ISBN 978-1-61080-933-7; ISBN 978-1-61080-958-0. LC 2012030461.
––––. What Happens to Leaves in Fall? ISBN 978-1-61080-909-2; ISBN 978-1-61080-934-4; ISBN 978-1-61080-959-7. LC 2012030462.
ea vol: 24p. (21st Century Basic Skills Library: Let’s Look at Fall Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Cherry Lake. 2013. PLB $22.79; pap. $12.79; ebook $22.79.
PreS-Gr–Learning about fall is fun with the strong content in this series that supports early literacy and the Common Core State Standards. The simple sentences are presented in a large font surrounded by plenty of white space. Vocabulary words (“hibernate,” “harvest,” etc.) are set apart in a bold font and defined in a glossary. The large, bright color photographs correspond well to the texts, helping emerging readers clarify the meaning of words and sentences. Each book contains a “Home and School Connection” page, which provides parents and teachers with a word list to reinforce literacy and activity suggestions. “What Do You See?” sidebars invite students to engage with the photos and texts. For example, in Halloween, readers are asked, “How many ghosts do you see?” in a photo of spooky treats–an activity that underlines the relationship between numbers and quantities and supports math literacy. A welcome addition for early-reader units.

GREGORY, Helen. Celebrations Around the World. ISBN 978-1-4765-0040-9. LC 2011023313.
––––. Harvest Season. ISBN 978-1-4765-0042-3. LC 2011023942.
––––. Places to Work. ISBN 978-1-4765-0043-0. LC 2011023871.
––––. Teamwork. ISBN 978-1-4765-0041-6. LC 2011023873.
ea vol: 20p. (Wonder Readers Next Steps: Social Studies Series). glossary. index. photos. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $21.99.
PreS-Gr 2–This engaging early-reader series has a simple text that supports fluency and comprehension. In Celebrations, a variety of world celebrations are divided by season. Season explains how to harvest select fruits, vegetables, and grains and provides clear information about the different crops gathered. In Places, the larger font and single sentence per page format is perfect for young readers learning about careers. Teamwork shows how working together makes a job go faster. Each book offers a “Note to Parents and Teachers,” “Now Try This!” activities that extend the topics, and a link that leads readers to the publisher’s selected websites. The large, color photographs, one per page, generally provide visual clues that help extend the texts.  Sometimes, however, it’s an imperfect match. For example, in Teamwork, a photo of kids in a basketball huddle does little to illustrate that “Children work together when they do chores.” Additional purchase where early readers are needed on these topics.

KEOGH, Josie. Christmas. ISBN 978-1-4488-9625-7; ISBN 978-1-4488-9864-0. LC 2012020042.
––––. Halloween. ISBN 978-1-4488-9623-3; ISBN 978-1-4488-9862-6. LC 2012020044.
––––. Hanukkah. ISBN 978-1-4488-9626-4; ISBN 978-1-4488-9865-7. LC 2012020040.
––––. St. Patrick’s Day. ISBN 978-1-4488-9628-8; ISBN 978-1-4488-9867-1. LC 2012022309.
––––. Thanksgiving. ISBN 978-1-4488-9624-0; ISBN 978-1-4488-9863-3. LC 2012020043.
––––. Valentine’s Day. ISBN 978-1-4488-9627-1; ISBN 978-1-4488-9866-4. LC 2012020632.
ea vol: 24p. (PowerKids Readers: Happy Holidays! Series). glossary. index. photos. websites. Rosen/PowerKids Pr. 2013. PLB $22.60; ebook $22.60.
PreS-Gr1 –The large font and many clear, cheery, color photographs featuring children and their families make this set visually appealing for beginning readers. The simple sentences and bold keywords assist students with comprehension. Substantial white space keeps the focus on the texts. “Words to Know” sections have thumbnail photos above highlighted words, but no definitions; many readers may not fully grasp their meanings. It is also unfortunate that the attractive photos do not always correspond to the text. For example, in Halloween, the sentence “Pumpkins grow on vines.” is paired with an image of a carved jack-o-lantern, and in Hanukkah, readers learn that when playing dreidel “You can win gelt,” but no chocolate coins are shown. In addition, some sentences will leave readers wanting more information. This is not a strong series for reports, but rather an additional purchase where early-readers collections have gaps in the holiday collections.

LYONS, Shelly. People in My Neighborhood. ISBN 978-1-62065-099-8; ISBN 978-1-62065-883-3. LC 2012023416.
––––. Places in My Neighborhood. ISBN 978-1-62065-100-1; ISBN 978-1-62065-885-7. LC 2012023418.
––––. Safety in My Neighborhood. ISBN 978-1-62065-102-5; ISBN 978-1-62065-887-1. LC 2012023421.
––––. Signs in My Neighborhood. ISBN 978-1-62065-098-1; ISBN 978-1-62065-889-5. LC 2012023424.
––––. Transportation in My Neighborhood. ISBN 978-1-62065-101-8; ISBN 978-1-62065-891-8. LC 20120231091.
ea vol: 24p. (Pebble Plus: My Neighborhood Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $24.65; pap. $6.95.
PreS-Gr1 –Children are introduced to a variety of neighbors (e.g., firefighters, librarians, and doctors) and learn how they teach, help, and serve the community. Readers are asked to think about where people live, how individuals travel from place to place, how to stay safe, and how to read signs around us. Short chapters, simple sentences, bold and colorful chapter headings and ample use of white space provide key decoding tools for emerging readers. The clear, large, color photographs portray diverse community members actively engaged in day-to-day living. The images not only create grabbing covers, but they also provide visual details that enhance understanding of key concepts and extend the texts. The layout is well balanced between illustration and text, helping students in their comprehension of each topic.

Grades 5 & Up

ANNISS, Matt. Planet Under Pressure: Too Many People on Earth? ISBN 978-1-4339-8643-7; ISBN 978-1-4339-8646-8.
––––. World Economy: What’s the Future? ISBN 978-1-4339-8647-5; ISBN 978-1-4339-8650-5.
GRAY, Leon. Genetic Modification: Should Humans Control Nature? ISBN 978-1-4339-8635-2; ISBN 978-1-4339-8638-3.
––––. Global Positioning System: Who’s Tracking You? ISBN 978-1-4339-8639-0; ISBN 978-1-4339-8642-0.
ea vol: 48p. (Ask the Experts Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Gareth Stevens. 2013. PLB $31.95; ebook $31.95.
Gr 6-10 –Using a variety of quoted sources to introduce alternative points of view, this set covers controversial subjects that are of concern to today’s readers, e.g., social media, economic recession, the environment, etc. Each book contains visually appealing sidebars, captioned color photos, and bright, crisp graphics that balance and/or complement the informative, compact texts. “The Debate” text boxes present scientific and moral ideas, dilemmas, and quandaries. Final “You’re the Expert” spreads ask readers to take stands on the featured subjects using the information they’ve read to inform their decisions. Modification is the strongest of the bunch; it explores the history of genetic modification as well as the complex topics scientists, politicians, and the public must ponder, such as animal cloning and world hunger. Despite some typos, this set would be a strong addition to both library and classroom shelves.

CONWAY, Celeste. Body Image and the Media. ISBN 978-1-61783-732-6; ISBN 978-1-61480-823-7; ISBN 978-1-61783-782-1. LC 2012946378.
GIMPEL, Diane Marczely. Violence in Video Games. reprods. ISBN 978-1-61783-736-4; ISBN 978-1-61480-827-5; ISBN 978-1-61783-786-9. LC 2012946380.
HARRIS, Ashley Rae. Graphic Novels. illus. ISBN 978-1-61783-733-3; ISBN 978-1-61480-824-4; ISBN 978-1-61783-783-8. LC 2012946377.
HERMANSSON, Casie. Parental Guidance Ratings. ISBN 978-1-61783-734-0; ISBN 978-1-61480-825-1; ISBN 978-1-61783-784-5. LC 2012946379.
KOPP, Megan. Reality Television. ISBN 978-1-61783-735-7; ISBN 978-1-61480-826-8; ISBN 978-1-61783-785-2. LC 2012946368.
LUSTED, Marcia Amidon. Banned Books. maps. ISBN 978-1-61783-731-9; ISBN 978-1-61480-822-0; ISBN 978-1-61783-781-4. LC 2012946384.
ea vol: 48p. (Hot Topics in Media Series). charts. chron. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. ABDO/Core Library. 2013. PLB $32.79; ebook $32.79; pap. $15.64.
Gr 3-6–By providing different arguments about contemporary issues, this series, which is designed to align with the CCSS, asks readers to think critically and evaluate alternative points of view. Body Image, Television, and Books are standout entries. Body explores the effects of media on self-image, while Television examines the history and effects of reality TV shows, and Banned looks at book challenges from different angles. In all of the titles, the clean design integrates textual and visual (charts, graphs, photos, etc.) information. Text boxes contain suggestions to “Explore Online,” “Straight to the Source” primary-source excerpts, “Further Evidence” writing exercises, or interesting facts. The publisher’s “Web Links” at the end of each volume lead readers to websites that contain current articles and multimedia to round out the content explored. These trendy topics will grab casual readers and report writers alike.

DALTON, David. Sikhism: Inderjeet’s Story. ISBN 978-1-84898-617-6.
WALLACE, Holly. Buddhism: Yuranan’s Story. ISBN 978-1-84898-615-2.
––––. Christianity: Herbert’s Story. ISBN 978-1-84898-614-5.
––––. Hinduism: Babu’s Story. ISBN 978-1-84898-616-9.
––––. Islam: Hamabli’s Story. ISBN 978-1-84898-612-1.
––––. Judaism: Yoni’s Story. ISBN 978-1-84898-613-8.
ea vol: 32p. (Our World of Faith Series). glossary. index. maps. photos. reprods. New Forest. 2013. PLB $28.50.
Gr 4-6–Child narrators, ranging from 10- to 14-years-old, provide snapshots into their cultures and faiths. Captioned photos, fact boxes, and paragraph-length sidebars deliver additional text. Short chapters emphasize the role of family, worship, festivals, holy places, and traditions. The photography captures the children and their families, showcasing places of worship, foods, practices, and geography. Illustrations and world maps provide readers with context about each religion. Unfortunately, a few volumes have formatting issues; some of the photos run into the gutter, cutting off faces or causing the figures to bleed into the seam, and a handful of images are distractingly blurry. In addition, Judaism discusses only two main branches of the religion (Orthodox and Reform), yet there are many other major modern Jewish movements. Punctuation issues mar Hinduism.

Educators and librarians can assist students by selecting series that support the Common Core State Standards. Cherry Lake’s “21st Century Basic Skills Library: Let’s Look at Fall” offers clear sentences and strong text features. Another standout is Capstone’s “Pebble Plus: My Neighborhood,” an early-reader series that explores topics in communities and neighborhoods and supplies strong visual details that support reading comprehension. ABDO’s “Hot Topics in Media” contains pop-culture facts that will capture tween readers, and, by examining different arguments, the books challenge students to apply critical-thinking skills. Gareth Stevens’s “Ask the Experts” is geared toward middle school and early high school students and delivers unique ways to examine controversial topics that concern today’s readers. Quoted sources, strong visual data, and moral and scientific debates provide students with effective content supporting reports.

Some books are read for pleasure, some for study. But the series in this section show kids that books can be real-world instructors as well. Converting manual activity into language is often an overlooked skill, but it is one that helps develop observational faculties and linguistic precision. Reading and following instructions shows students the value of clarity and word choice in their own writing–we grind nuts and seeds into flour, while we mix peanut butter and honey together to make a paste. And then we get to eat!

Preschool-Grade 4

DICKER , Katie. You Can Draw Birds!. ISBN 978-1-4339-8723-6; ISBN 978-1-4339-8726-7. LC 2012033133.
––––. You Can Draw Cats!. ISBN 978-1-4339-8727-4; ISBN 978-1-4339-8730-4. LC 2012033132.
––––. You Can Draw Dogs!. ISBN 978-1-4339-8731-1; ISBN 978-1-4339-8734-2. LC 2012022952.
––––. You Can Draw Exotic Pets!. ISBN 978-1-4339-8735-9; ISBN 978-1-4339-8738-0. LC 2012033134.
––––. You Can Draw Fish!. ISBN 978-1-4339-8739-7; ISBN 978-1-4339-8742-7. LC 2012033138.
––––. You Can Draw Horses!. ISBN 978-1-4339-8743-4; ISBN 978-1-4339-8746-5. LC 2012033136.
ea vol: illus. by Mike Lacey. 32p. (Draw Your Pet! Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Gareth Stevens. 2013. PLB $26.60; ebook $26.60.
Gr 2-4–Appealing color photos of adorable pets will keep kids turning the pages of this set. Short text passages offer fun facts to quote and tips about each species’ or breed’s temperament and needs. Six step-by-step drawing projects per volume start with an outline of the animal, making the finished drawing achievable even by kids who do best with tracing. This is a solid technique for learning to draw from a photograph, but it limits extensibility; because the drawings are not built up from basic shapes or physical forms, young artists will not learn to draw variations on the poses in the books. This outline-and-fill-in technique also bypasses the hidden benefits that can come with how-to-draw books: practice with geometric shapes, awareness of anatomical forms, and dimensional perception.

LAPENTA , Marilyn. Fall Shakes to Harvest Bakes. ISBN 978-1-61772-742-9; ISBN 978-1-61772-791-7. LC 2012033940.
––––. Spring Spreads to “Nutty” Breads. ISBN 978-1-61772-744-3; ISBN 978-1-61772-793-1. LC 2012039829.
––––. Summer Sips to “Chill” Dips. ISBN 978-1-61772-741-2; ISBN 978-1-61772-790-0. LC 2012033939.
––––. Winter Punches to Nut Crunches. ISBN 978-1-61772-743-6; ISBN 978-1-61772-792-4. LC 2012037780.
ea vol: 24p. (Yummy Tummy Recipes: Seasons Series). bibliog. further reading. glossary. illus. index. photos. websites. Bearport. 2013. PLB $23.93; ebook $23.93.
Gr 1-6–The 13-to-14 recipes in each volume are easy to make, require accessible ingredients and prepared foods, and cover a variety of categories, from drinks (“Warm Cranberry Punch”) to dessert (“Baked Stuffed Apples”). They’re also wholesome without calling a lot of attention to that fact; they’re packed full of fruits and vegetables, fiber, and sugar substitutes such as honey and agave nectar. Bright, seasonally appropriate palettes and sharp, color images of food and ingredients give the books an appealing, modern look. The “Healthy Tips” section at the end of every title offers additional ways for readers to make their culinary creations delicious and nutritious. The syntax is occasionally stilted, with many simple sentences and few transitions, but this is not much of an issue given that the bulk of the writing here is instructional.

LARSON , Jennifer S. Delicious Vegetarian Main Dishes. ISBN 978-0-7613-6635-5; ISBN 978-1-4677-0133-4. LC 2012020923.
––––. Meaty Main Dishes. ISBN 978-0-7613-6634-8; ISBN 978-1-4677-0134-1. LC 2012020922.
––––. Perfect Pizza Recipes. ISBN 978-0-7613-6637-9; ISBN 978-1-4677-0136-5. LC 2012020924.
––––. Super Pasta and Rice Dishes. ISBN 978-0-7613-6641-6; ISBN 978-1-4677-0135-8. LC 2012022477.
––––. Tasty Sandwiches. ISBN 978-0-7613-6643-0; ISBN 978-1-4677-0137-2. LC 2012022478.
––––. Yummy Soup and Salad Recipes. ISBN 978-0-7613-6633-1; ISBN 978-1-4677-0138-9. LC 2012020921.
ea vol: 32p. (You’re the Chef Series). further reading. glossary. illus. index. websites. Millbrook. 2013. PLB $26.60; ebook $19.95.
Gr 1-4–These recipes manage to hit a sweet spot in kid cookery: they require little in the way of expertise, yet are complex enough to be interesting. None of your “Ants on a Log” nonsense here. Young chefs will be taking a stab at “Tasty Pad Thai Noodles,” “Chicken Wonton Soup,” and “Terrific Turkey Burgers.” The instructions are detailed and thoroughly illustrated with clear color drawings; photos show the enticing final products. The ingredients are readily available and include very few processed foods and only one or two convenience items–after all who could blame cooks for buying a bag of shredded carrots instead of julienning two cups of carrots themselves? The 9 or 10 recipes in each book focus on nutritious ingredients but aren’t stingy with the cheese. Most of them have a suggested “Try This!” variation that gently encourages kids to get creative with their cooking.

LAY , Richard. A Green Kid’s Guide to Composting. ISBN 978-1-61641-943-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-581-6. LC 2012023789.
––––. A Green Kid’s Guide to Garden Pest Removal. ISBN 978-1-61641-944-8; ISBN 978-1-61480-582-3. LC 2012023790.
––––. A Green Kid’s Guide to Organic Fertilizers. ISBN 978-1-61641-945-5; ISBN 978-1-61480-583-0. LC 2012023791.
––––. A Green Kid’s Guide to Preventing Plant Diseases. ISBN 978-1-61641-946-2; ISBN 978-1-61480-584-7. LC 2012023792.
––––. A Green Kid’s Guide to Soil Preparation. ISBN 978-1-61641-947-9; ISBN 978-1-61480-585-4. LC 2012023793.
––––. A Green Kid’s Guide to Watering Plants. ISBN 978-1-61641-948-6; ISBN 978-1-61480-586-1. LC 2012023795.
ea vol: illus. by Laura Zarrin. 24p. (A Green Kid’s Guide to Gardening! Series). glossary. index. websites. ABDO. 2013. PLB $27.07; ebook $27.07.
Gr 1-3–This set contains clear and concise instructions and information that encourage kids to enjoy all aspects of gardening while taking responsibility for the Earth. Young readers will appreciate the frank language–worm poop gets a lot of play–and accessible analogies (a raised bed is compared to a bed for people). The tips and advice are quite good: in Garden Pest, students learn that ants hate mint, and in Composting it’s explained that you shouldn’t put meat, oil, or dairy into a compost “because animals will get into your compost pile.” The cheerful illustrations are particularly charming; they depict kids of all sizes and hues working together, using tools, and caring for their plants. Like the text, these drawings are clear and helpful. Each book is rounded off with an activity, some of which, like “Grow Seedlings” (in Watering Plants) can even be undertaken in colder months. Great nonfiction for early readers.

Grades 5 & Up

BERRY , Bob. How to Draw Magical, Monstrous & Mythological Creatures. illus. by Bob Berry. ISBN 978-1-936309-92-4. LC 2012004770.
CORFEE , Stephanie. Fashion Design Workshop. illus. by Stephanie Corfee. ISBN 978-1-936309-85-6. LC 2012004733.
WHITTEN , Samantha & Jeannie Lee . How to Draw Manga Chibis & Cute Critters. illus. by Samantha Whitten. ISBN 978-1-936309-93-1. LC 2012020277.
ea vol: 128p. (Walter Foster Studio Series). photos. Walter Foster. 2013. PLB $35.65.
Gr 7 Up–Each volume  should be evaluated in terms of  collection needs. The characters in Creatures are entertaining, appealing, and/or gruesome, but following the step-by-step instructions requires a high degree of artistic skill. Workshop includes a glossary of fashion industry terms, a visual glossary of garment types, a guide to drawing clothing textures, and a “Fashion Figures Templates” section that many artists could find useful. The finished drawings are at an attainable skill level, which is to say they look like the drawings in any fashion-mad teenager’s notebook. Manga is a helpful introduction to the basic shapes and stubby, simplified proportions of these diminutive characters. While this book is somewhat marred by oversimplification and an inconsistent use of terminology, enthusiasts will learn from it.

BOLTE , Mari. All-American Girl Style: Fun Fashions You Can Sketch. illus. by Sole Otero. ISBN 978-1-62065-039-4.
––––. Girly Girl Style: Fun Fashions You Can Sketch. illus. by Brooke Hagel. ISBN 978-1-62065-035-6.
––––. Harajuka Style: Fun Fashions You Can Sketch. illus. by Brooke Hagel. ISBN 978-1-62065-034-9.
––––. Hollywood Style: Fun Fashions You Can Sketch. illus. by Sarah Dahl. ISBN 978-1-62065-037-0.
––––. Rock Star Style: Fun Fashions You Can Sketch. illus. by Sarah Dahl. ISBN 978-1-62065-036-3.
––––. Skater Chic Style: Fun Fashions You Can Sketch. illus. by Jennifer Rzasa. ISBN 978-1-62065-038-7.
ea vol: 32p. (Snap Books: Drawing Fun Fashions Series). further reading. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $27.32.
Gr 4-8–These titles are a combination of style manuals and how-to-draw books. Instructions for 13 projects per volume are given in just a few steps, from figure drawing to finished fashion illustration. Along the way, text boxes offer tips on how to pull off each look. A variety of illustration styles gives young artists a lot to choose from. For example, the models in Girly Girl are glamorously proportioned, all legs and lips, while the teens in Skater Chic are more realistic. Each book features ethnically diverse models, and All-American Girl includes a chic “Got It Covered” outfit: long-sleeved peasant top, wide-leg jeans, wedges, and a flattering headscarf. Most youngsters will find it difficult to replicate the results exactly, but frequent pro tips offer helpful advice, such as using a white crayon and watercolor to imitate crochet, or eye shadow to draw fluffy textures.

GREEN , Gail D. Pretty Presents: Paper Creations to Share. ISBN 978-1-62065-041-7.
LAUGHLIN , Kara L. Marvelous Memories: Paper Keepsake Creations. ISBN 978-1-62065-044-8.
PHILLIPS , Jennifer. Adorable Accessories: Paper Creations to Wear. ISBN 978-1-62065-043-1.
––––. Snappy Style: Paper Decoration Creations. ISBN 978-1-62065-042-4.
ea vol: 32p. (Snap Books: Paper Creations Series). further reading. photos. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $27.32.
Gr 7 Up–Quilling, creating paper pulp, wrapping, and designing mosaic and decoupage are just a few of the techniques readers will learn as they create useful items such as bowls and photo frames, or decorative ones such as ornaments and nameplates. Thirteen inventive projects per volume range in difficulty from the super simple “Bookshelf Zoo” (Style), which involves cutting out matching shapes from contrasting colors of cardstock and gluing them together, to the truly challenging “Paper Purse” (Accessories). These crafts allow for a lot of stylistic variation and interpretation, and results will vary depending on crafters’ dexterity and creativity. Instructions are detailed and clearly written, but they will test students’ ability to interpret and follow instructions as very few process photos are on hand to illustrate the steps.

LIM , Annalees. Fun with Fabric. ISBN 978-1-4777-0180-5; ISBN 978-1-4777-0204-8. LC 2012026230.
––––. Fun with Nature. ISBN 978-1-4777-0181-2; ISBN 978-1-4777-0205-5. LC 2012026228.
––––. Fun with Paint. ISBN 978-1-4777-0182-9; ISBN 978-1-4777-0206-2. LC 2012026227.
––––. Fun with Paper. ISBN 978-1-4777-0183-6; ISBN 978-1-4777-0207-9. LC 2012026226.
ea vol: 24p. (Clever Crafts Series). glossary. index. photos. websites. Windmill. 2013. PLB $25.25; ebook $25.25.
Gr 3-8–These crafts have easy-to-follow instructions and use materials found around the house or at a craft store. Projects such as cuddly stuffed sock monsters (Fabric), pinecone hedgehogs (Nature), accordion butterflies (Paper), and handprint animals (Paint) offer an impressive range of simple creative techniques while producing amusing decorative items Clear photographs provide reasonably complete documentation of each process, but some kids will wish for more detailed descriptions. For example, in Fabric, diagrams would be more effective to demonstrate braiding or weaving than photographs. A super-bright design palette and great-looking finished projects give this series shelf appeal. Most kids will be able to achieve attractive results, no matter their level of artistic talent. Some of these crafts could be considered curriculum-adjacent, making them solid choices for rainy-day class projects.

TUMINELLY , Nancy. Cool Dairy-Free Recipes: Delicious & Fun Foods Without Dairy. ISBN 978-1-61783-581-0; ISBN 978-1-61480-728-5.
––––. Cool Meat-Free Recipes: Delicious & Fun Foods Without Meat. ISBN 978-1-61783-582-7; ISBN 978-1-61480-729-2.
––––. Cool Nut-Free Recipes: Delicious & Fun Foods Without Nuts. ISBN 978-1-61783-583-4; ISBN 978-1-61480-730-8.
––––. Cool Raw Food Recipes: Delicious & Fun Foods Without Cooking. ISBN 978-1-61783-584-1; ISBN 978-1-61480-731-5.
––––. Cool Sugar-Free Recipes: Delicious & Fun Foods Without Refined Sugars. ISBN 978-1-61783-585-8; ISBN 978-1-61480-732-2.
––––. Cool Wheat-Free Recipes: Delicious & Fun Foods Without Gluten. ISBN 978-1-61783-586-5; ISBN 978-1-61480-733-9.
ea vol: 32p. (Cool Recipes for Your Health Series). glossary. index. photos. websites. ABDO. 2013. PLB $28.50; ebook $28.50.
Gr 3-8 –It’s not impossible for kids with dietary restrictions to find recipes in general-interest children’s cookbooks, but it’s not easy, either. These titles are a welcome addition. Each one features eight medium-to-easy recipes paired with color photos and bracketed by information about the reasons why people may choose or need to restrict their diet and how to make cooking to these specifications easier. Some ingredients may be unfamiliar to readers not already living a dairy-free or wheat-free life, but chances are that the kitchens in the homes of children with gluten sensitivity, for example, will already contain items like rice flour and xanthan gum. Many recipes call for semi-prepared foods, such as pudding mix or gluten-free pizza sauce, which is perhaps understandable in Wheat-Free and Dairy-Free given the challenges of creating kid-friendly recipes that exclude many common ingredients. Start a conversation and fill an inclusion gap with this series.

Your faithful arts and crafts reviewer once again called upon her patient children and their friends to field test recipes, crafts, and drawing projects for this season’s batch of books. Windmill’s “Clever Crafts” attracted the most attention; tweens in the group immediately started coming up with new ways to use the techniques demonstrated. Capstone’s “Snap Books: Paper Creations” will be especially tempting to teachers and librarians always on the lookout for clever, low-cost project options or activities using recycled materials. A seventh-grade manga artist looked askance at the stereotypical figures in Walter Foster’s ??Walter Foster Studio,” but conceded that the set would be helpful. None of the other drawing series met with much approval, and the adult in the room (me) was similarly unimpressed. We were quite charmed by ABDO’s “A Green Kid’s Guide to Gardening.” The seasonal recipes in Bearport’s “Yummy Tummy Recipes: Seasons” were met with unanimous approval, and grown-ups will appreciate the reliance on ingredients such as honey, yogurt, nuts, and other nutritious foods. We were most pleased with ABDO’s “Cool Recipes for Your Health.” These books not only provided recipes for children with allergies, they also explained why some kids might not eat certain things.

While vampires and Greek myths remain popular, they’ve taken a backseat to some perennial favorites. Ghosts, aliens, and mythical monsters appear more than once in this season’s sets. Fairy tales, too, have a foothold. Across all topics, these books have a strong focus on the stories’ origins and on giving students the information they need to figure out for themselves what’s true and what isn’t and why people believe what they do. Of course, they also provide the thrills, chills, and laughs casual browsers will be looking for.

Preschool-Grade 4

BURGAN , Michael. The Unsolved Mystery of Bigfoot. illus. ISBN 978-1-62065-134-6; ISBN 978-1-62065-806-2. LC 2012028437.
MARTIN , Michael. The Unsolved Mystery of Ghosts. ISBN 978-1-62065-136-0; ISBN 978-1-62065-808-6. LC 2012028472.
SIEVERT , Terri. The Unsolved Mystery of the Loch Ness Monster. illus. ISBN 978-1-62065-133-9; ISBN 978-1-62065-810-9. LC 2012028438.
––––. The Unsolved Mystery of UFOs. illus. ISBN 978-1-62065-135-3; ISBN 978-1-62065-812-3. LC 2012028441.
ea vol: 24p. (First Facts: Unexplained Mysteries Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $24.65; pap. $6.95.
Gr 1-3 –Readers may be confused after browsing through these introductions to mysterious creatures and phenomena. Short chapters offer definitions of each one and its role in history and legends, with unfamiliar words highlighted and defined in sidebars. The large photographs and illustrations are fittingly creepy, scary, and/or appealing. The tone is a bit at odds with itself, however. Each book includes “True or False” sections that lay out rational explanations for the phenomena or strange beings, but then follow them with ambiguous and/or misleading statements. For example, Loch Ness Monster ends with this sentence: “Until the mystery is solved, what swims in Loch Ness will remain unknown.” Rather than encourage kids to think for themselves, this set might leave them mystified.

DOEDEN, Matt. The Anatomy of a Dragon. ISBN 978-1-62065-145-2. LC 2012033236.
––––. Dragon Behavior. ISBN 978-1-62065-144-5. LC 2012033235.
––––. Dragons in Mythology. photos. ISBN 978-1-62065-143-8. LC 2012033237.
––––. Real-World Dragons. photos. ISBN 978-1-62065-146-9.
ea vol: 32p. (Blazers: The World of Dragons Series). further reading. glossary. illus. index. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $25.99.
Gr 2-3–These diverting but unreliable titles offer large images of monstrous and majestic creatures, small blocks of text, sidebars with additional “facts,?? such as  “Some dragons live in old, crumbling castles,” and vocabulary definitions. The narratives are heavily reliant on western dragons and the texts in Anatomy and Behavior are unclear whether they are presenting myths, legends, or historical accounts. The volumes strive for a scientific field guidelike feel, which might confuse children into thinking all the information is true. However, Mythology and Real-World do attempt to explain sources, making these titles essential to balancing the others. Not to be used for projects, but this set might make an entertaining browsing selection and will strike a chord with dragon fanatics.

FRISCH, Aaron. Ghosts. reprods. ISBN 978-1-60818-246-6. LC 2011051178.
––––. Mummies. ISBN 978-1-60818-247-3. LC 2011051179.
––––. Vampires. ISBN 978-1-60818-248-0. LC 2011051180.
––––. Werewolves. reprods. ISBN 978-1-60818-249-7. LC 2011051181.
––––. Witches. reprods. ISBN 978-1-60818-250-3. LC 2011051182.
––––. Zombies. ISBN 978-1-60818-251-0. LC 2011051183.
ea vol: 24p. (That’s Spooky! Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Creative Education. 2013. PLB $25.65.
Gr 1-3 –These image-heavy guides to monsters of myths and legends strike a delightful balance between creepy and cheesy. Large stills from movies and stock photographs are paired with pages of information on abilities and characteristics of these scary subjects. Each title gives a solid overview, with text that provides wide coverage in a short amount of space. The visuals are intriguing and grotesque but not too terrifying. Amusing features include a page that instructs readers in how to spot each creature (the vampire, for example, has notable “red eyes,” “pointy teeth,” “black cape,” “pale skin,” and “leftover blood” lingering on the corner of his mouth) and a guide to acting and/or dressing as a ghost, mummy, etc. Though the books lack consistency (historical significance is discussed for mummies, for example, but not for witches), overall they are satisfying additions, especially around Halloween.

OWEN, Ruth. Aliens and Other Visitors. ISBN 978-1-61772-723-8; ISBN 978-1-61772-770-2. LC 2012045264.
––––. Ghosts and Other Spirits of the Dead. ISBN 978-1-61772-724-5; ISBN 978-1-61772-771-9. LC 2012039959.
––––. Half-Human Monsters and Other Fiends. diags. maps. ISBN 978-1-61772-725-2; ISBN 978-1-61772-772-6. LC 2012039962.
––––. Vampires and Other Bloodsuckers. ISBN 978-1-61772-722-1; ISBN 978-1-61772-773-3. LC 2012042198.
––––. Werewolves and Other Shape-Shifters. maps. ISBN 978-1-61772-695-8; ISBN 978-1-61772-774-0. LC 2012038864.
––––. Zombies and Other Walking Dead. maps. ISBN 978-1-61772-721-4; ISBN 978-1-61772-775-7. LC 2012039500.
ea vol: 32p. (Not Near Normal: The Paranormal Series). bibliog. further reading. glossary. illus. photos. reprods. websites. Bearport. 2013. PLB $26.60; ebook $26.60.
Gr 2-5–Each volume introduces a different paranormal creature and focuses on the stories surrounding it. Some titles attempt to examine the origin of their supernatural subjects. For example, Ghosts asks, “If ghosts aren’t spirits of the dead, what are they?” which should prompt students to ponder the truth of the paranormal stories without providing hard and fast answers on whether or not these beings exist. Grotesque images and color and black-and-white photos (most look digitally enhanced) illustrate each page. The effect is often artificial and sometimes comical, but delightfully creepy anyway. Text boxes shaped like headstones deliver scary tidbits and anecdotes. Folklore is the main focus of the texts, but there are some notable exceptions for pop culture (e.g., Dracula and the “Twilight” series get nods in Vampires). Features such as “A Werewolf’s Diary” and “Ghosts Around the World” are silly, but nonetheless entertaining.

PIPE, Jim. Aliens. ISBN 978-1-4339-8747-2; ISBN 978-1-4339-8750-2. LC 2012038517.
––––. Ghosts. ISBN 978-1-4339-8751-9; ISBN 978-1-4339-8754-0. LC 2012038518.
––––. Monsters. ISBN 978-1-4339-8755-7; ISBN 978-1-4339-8758-8. LC 2012038516.
––––. The Undead. ISBN 978-1-4339-8759-5; ISBN 978-1-4339-8762-5. LC 2012038519.
ea vol: 32p. (The Twilight Realm Series). further reading. glossary. illus. index. photos. websites. Gareth Stevens. 2013. PLB $26.60; ebook $26.60.
Gr 2-4–An appropriately eerie design (gray pages, shaky black headlines, etc.) sets the tone for this set about creepy creatures from myth and legend. Each title goes into what the beings are, where stories about them might have originated, and where these tales have been told historically. Large images of the monsters anchor the chapters (each a spread), which are made up of short paragraphs of text, sidebars, illustrations, and relevant captioned photos, creating a magazinelike feel. However, some of the books are too narrow in their approach (Undead, for example, focuses exclusively on vampires, missing an opportunity to capitalize on the popularity of zombies, at the very least), and others too broad (Monsters covers everything from Bigfoot to giant alligators in the sewers of New York City). Nonetheless, this series is great for browsing–especially for students who are reading together. Sections about unexplored terrain and quizzes posing questions about encounters with the supernatural will inspire imaginations and encourage kids to think critically about what they have read.

RIGGS, Kate. Enchanted Castles. ISBN 978-1-60818-240-4. LC 2011050867.
––––. Fairy Godmothers. ISBN 978-1-60818-241-1. LC 2011050868.
––––. Magical Creatures. ISBN 978-1-60818-242-8. LC 2011050869.
––––. Princes & Princesses. ISBN 978-1-60818-243-5. LC 2012000802.
––––. Spells & Potions. ISBN 978-1-60818-244-2. LC 2011051175.
––––. Wicked Stepmothers. ISBN 978-1-60818-245-9. LC 2011051177.
ea vol: 24p. (Happily Ever After Series). further reading. glossary. illus. index. reprods. websites. Creative Education. 2013. PLB $25.65.
K-Gr 2–Illustrations featuring classic reproductions and stills from famous movie adaptations (many of them Disney cartoons) make these short, bright volumes browser-friendly. Unfortunately, discussions of each featured fairy tale trope rely on only the most well-known tales, utilize flimsy definitions, or fail to describe some things at all. For example, Stepmothers does not explain what a stepmother is. The lack of captions for the images might leave readers who are not familiar with specific tales or films confused. In addition to the usual nonfiction elements, links to websites with games and activities are provided, and there is a Mad Libs-style exercise that allows kids to fill in blanks (though not in the books) to write their own fairy tales. Fine for fun, but don’t depend on these for factual information.

Grades 5 & Up

CHAMBERS, Catherine. African Myths and Legends. ISBN 978-1-4109-4971-4; ISBN 978-1-4109-4976-9. LC 2012017690.
GANERI, Anita. Norse Myths and Legends. ISBN 978-1-4109-4973-8; ISBN 978-1-4109-4978-3. LC 2012017719.
HUNT, Jilly. Roman Myths and Legends. ISBN 978-1-4109-4974-5; ISBN 978-1-4109-4979-0. LC 2012017720.
MACDONALD, Fiona. Egyptian Myths and Legends. ISBN 978-1-4109-4972-1; ISBN 978-1-4109-4977-6. LC 2012017692.
ea vol: 48p. (All About Myths Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. reprods. websites. Raintree. 2013. PLB $32; pap. $8.99.
Gr 4-6–A nice range of cultures is offered in these overviews, though with only four titles, the set is far from comprehensive. The busy, bright design incorporates blocks of small-font text, plenty of relevant photos, reproductions, and numerous informative sidebars. The rich information will allow students to explore the ways history and mythology affect each other. Stories, clearly marked “RETELLING,” are interspersed throughout each volume, offering legends and tales such as  “How the world began” in Norse. The back matter is full of solid resources, including lists of “Characters, Creatures, and Places” (with pronunciation guides), reading suggestions, websites (which are annotated and focus on public television and museums sites), as well as “Places to Visit” and ideas for “Further Research.” Great choice for libraries seeking volumes that look above and beyond the pantheon.

Many of the best titles revolve around monsters, with Creative Education’s “That’s Spooky!,” Bearport’s “Not Near Normal: The Paranormal,” and Gareth Stevens’s “The Twilight Realm” all providing a great balance of information and entertainment for a wide age range. Raintree’s “All About Myths,” this spring’s guide to world mythology, is also full of information that is perfect for reports. This is a good year for the new standards, too, with many volumes fulfilling CCSS requirements. The strongest sets are written with beginners in mind, introducing concepts for those with no prior knowledge and encouraging kids to see both sides of the story and make their own decisions about the existence of monsters, ghosts, etc.

“It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities,” says Albus Dumbledore in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. What the wise wizard (and his creator) understands is that children face difficult decisions every day. While the particulars may differ among generations and locales, the essential issues remain the same: our actions have consequences and the easy choices are not always the right ones. These series aim to provide readers with the tools to make smart decisions for themselves, their communities, and their world. Special focus is placed on current topics, including bullying, the environment, and technology literacy.

Preschool-Grade 4

BARRACLOUGH, Sue. Be an Eco Hero at Home. ISBN 978-1-59771-379-5. LC 2011049897.
––––. Be an Eco Hero at School. ISBN 978-1-59771-381-8. LC 2011049894.
––––. Be an Eco Hero on the Move. ISBN 978-1-59771-380-1. LC 2011049896.
––––. Be an Eco Hero Outdoors. ISBN 978-1-59771-382-5. LC 2011049895.
ea vol: 30p. (Be an Eco Hero Series). glossary. illus. index. photos. websites. Sea-to-Sea. 2013. PLB $25.65.
Gr 2-3–This brightly colored, approachable series teaches introductory ecology and conservation principles based in familiar settings. Spreads cover subtopics in a few simple sentences, allowing young readers to easily grasp new vocabulary words (which are set apart in bold text) and ideas. The many large color photos complement the text and side boxes list practical ways for kids to make an impact (e.g., “Turn off lights in empty rooms”). Superhero cartoon characters provide redundant tips and unnecessary encouragements, but may be appealing to reluctant readers. Final spreads suggest activities, such as asking an adult to help write letters to local authorities and planting trees, to reinforce learning. End materials include lists of reliable websites for further research and glossaries with thorough definitions but no pronunciation guides. While too short for reports, this series is engaging enough to be read and enjoyed independently.

FERGUSON, Addy. Are You a Bully? ISBN 978-1-4488-9666-0; ISBN 978-1-4488-9905-0. LC 2012022940.
––––. Bullying with Words: Teasing, Name-Calling, and Rumors. ISBN 978-1-4488-9670-7; ISBN 978-1-4488-9909-8.
––––. Group Bullying: Exclusion and Ganging Up. ISBN 978-1-4488-9669-1; ISBN 978-1-4488-9908-1.
––––. Online Bullying. ISBN 978-1-4488-9668-4; ISBN 978-1-4488-9907-4. LC 2012025151.
––––. What to Do if You Are Bullied. ISBN 978-1-4488-9665-3; ISBN 978-1-4488-9904-3. LC 2012018696.
––––. What You Can Do to Stop Bullying. ISBN 978-1-4488-9667-7; ISBN 978-1-4488-9906-7. LC 2012024146.
ea vol: 24p. (Stand Up: Bullying Prevention Series). glossary. index. photos. websites. Rosen/PowerKids Pr. 2013. PLB $22.60; ebook $22.60.
Gr 2-3–While these books confront different aspects of bullying, much of the information is repeated across the set. Most volumes emphasize that bystanders are part of the problem, encourage readers to team up with their friends to stop bad behavior, mention creating bully-free schools, and end with a page discussing respect and/or summarizing key points. The information and advice are solid; all the titles suggest telling an adult. What You Can Do lets readers know that if someone seems disinclined to help them they shouldn’t give up. However, students will have to slog through many pages to get to information about the titular topic. Though bullies may not pick up Are You a Bully? voluntarily, students assigned to read it will find sympathetic advice on gaining the trust of those whom they hurt, as well as self-forgiveness. Captioned color photos illustrate the pages. Elementary schools and public libraries should pick and choose individual volumes as needed.

HEAD, Honor. Family and Friends. ISBN 978-1-59771-397-9. LC 2011052698.
––––. Healthy Eating. ISBN 978-1-59771-394-8. LC 2011052695.
––––. Internet Safety. ISBN 978-1-59771-398-6. LC 2011052699.
––––. Keeping Clean. ISBN 978-1-59771-395-5. LC 2011052696.
––––. Keeping Fit. ISBN 978-1-59771-396-2. LC 2011052697.
ea vol: 30p. (Let’s Read and Talk About… Series). glossary. index. photos. Sea-to-Sea. 2013. PLB $28.50.
Gr 3-4 –Each spread in this appealing series raises and answers one broad question about social and physical health and a handful of related queries, providing information that is succinct yet satisfying. “Talk About” text boxes offer age-appropriate conversation starters, which are especially valuable for parents and classroom teachers dealing with tough subjects such as bullying and divorce. Sporadic “Take Action” text boxes encourage readers to employ their new knowledge–e.g., change compromised online passwords or have a bread-tasting session. Each volume also has a page dedicated to questions stemming from the book as a whole. The texts are  supported by robust glossaries, labeled diagrams, and captioned color photographs of multicultural children. Family is notable for its inclusion of nontraditional families (including same-sex and foster) as well as its breadth of topics covered.

KAWA, Katie. I Feel Happy. ISBN 978-1-4339-8107-4; ISBN 978-1-4339-8110-4. LC 2012020648.
––––. I Feel Lonely. ISBN 978-1-4339-8111-1; ISBN 978-1-4339-8114-2. LC 2012019214.
––––. I Feel Mad. ISBN 978-1-4339-8115-9; ISBN 978-1-4339-8118-0. LC 2012019213.
––––. I Feel Sad. ISBN 978-1-4339-8119-7; ISBN 978-1-4339-8122-7. LC 2012019212.
––––. I Feel Scared. ISBN 978-1-4339-8123-4; ISBN 978-1-4339-8126-5. LC 2012019211.
––––. I Feel Worried. ISBN 978-1-4339-8127-2; ISBN 978-1-4339-8130-2. LC 2012019209.
ea vol: 24p. (How Do I Feel? Series). glossary. illus. index. Gareth Stevens. 2013. PLB $22.60; ebook $22.60.
PreS-Gr 1–Each volume in this mediocre set introduces a basic emotion through a story about a common childhood event. For example, a boy feels sad when he has to move and a girl feels lonely when her friends are not at the park. The table of contents refers to chapter headings that do not exist in the text. On each spread, the verso contains simple sentences that are appropriate in structure and vocabulary for emerging readers, and the recto show an unattractive cartoon illustration. Vocabulary words are occasionally defined in context; the picture glossaries, which do not have verbal definitions, frequently include items young readers would already know and omit the more difficult words. Given that this series will only be marginally helpful with the Common Core State Standards, Todd Parr’s The Feelings Book (Little, Brown, 2000) is just as good and more enjoyable.

RAATMA, Lucia. Cyberbullying. ISBN 978-0-531-25522-3; ISBN 978-0-531-23922-3. LC 2012036048.
––––. Good Manners. ISBN 978-0-531-25523-0; ISBN 978-0-531-23923-0. LC 2012036003.
––––. Making Smart Choices. ISBN 978-0-531-25524-7; ISBN 978-0-531-23924-7. LC 2012036005.
––––. Stop Bullying. ISBN 978-0-531-25521-6; ISBN 978-0-531-23921-6. LC 2012036006.
ea vol: 48p. (A True Book: Guides to Life Series). chron. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Children’s Press. 2013. PLB $29.00; pap. $6.95.
Gr 3-4–This subset falls short. Choppy sentences in long paragraphs are accompanied by large, color photographs. “The Big Truth!” sections in the center of each volume have full-spread photos with text boxes containing facts and/or advice (e.g., “Having fun? Great! But don’t chew with your mouth open.”) Each volume has an absurdly short and arbitrary time line: for example, the one in Manners starts with Emily Post’s etiquette guide as one of four important events named, but the politeness professional herself is never mentioned in the text. It also includes the launch of Facebook (mentioned once in the text as a place where gossip may be spread), but gives no additional information as to its relevance. Simplistic true-or-false questions are answered on the “True Statistics” page, which gives no sources for its figures. While two volumes are devoted to bullying, Smart Choices crams in many topics, including nutrition, exercise, drugs, alcohol, stress, etc. All of the topics addressed in here are better covered in extant series.

RISSMAN, Rebecca. Should Bella Go to Bed?: Staying Healthy. ISBN 978-1-4329-7255-4; ISBN 978-1-4329-7256-1.
––––. Should Billy Brush His Teeth?: Taking Care of Yourself. ISBN 978-1-4329-7239-4; ISBN 978-1-4329-7245-5.
––––. Should Charlotte Share?: Being a Good Friend. ISBN 978-1-4329-7238-7; ISBN 978-1-4329-7244-8.
––––. Should Henry Wear a Helmet?: Staying Safe. ISBN 978-1-4329-7241-7; ISBN 978-1-4329-7247-9.
––––. Should Theo Say Thank You?: Being Respectful. ISBN 978-1-4329-7240-0; ISBN 978-1-4329-7246-2.
––––. Should Wendy Walk the Dog?: Taking Care of Your Pets. ISBN 978-1-4329-7237-0; ISBN 978-1-4329-7243-1.
ea vol: 24p. (What Would You Do? Series). glossary. index. photos. Heinemann. 2013. PLB $21.50; pap. $5.99.
PreS-Gr 1–Six children of diverse backgrounds face choices about health, safety, and personal responsibility. Each volume starts by explaining that choices have consequences and reminding readers to ask themselves if their decisions will have good or bad effects. Four scenarios follow, each using a few simple, repetitive sentences to describe the characters’ options, accompanied by large color photos that mirror the text. Each scenario ends with a “What Would YOU Have Done?” section that describes the consequences of each choice and encourages readers think for themselves. These sections have smaller type, significantly more complex vocabulary, and longer sentences than the others, but the accompanying photos help convey the main ideas. Additional materials include a picture glossary with definitions and a note for parents and teachers suggesting pre- and post-reading activities. These short, relatable books will be at home in any public or elementary library.

THOMAS, Isabel. Dealing with Feeling Angry. ISBN 978-1-4329-7103-8; ISBN 978-1-4329-7112-0. LC 2012008275.
––––. Dealing with Feeling Caring. ISBN 978-1-4329-7104-5; ISBN 978-1-4329-7113-7. LC 2012008276.
––––. Dealing with Feeling Happy. ISBN 978-1-4329-7105-2; ISBN 978-1-4329-7114-4. LC 2012008277.
––––. Dealing with Feeling Jealous. ISBN 978-1-4329-7106-9; ISBN 978-1-4329-7115-1. LC 2012008278.
––––. Dealing with Feeling Proud. ISBN 978-1-4329-7107-6; ISBN 978-1-4329-7116-8. LC 2012008394.
––––. Dealing with Feeling Sad. illus. ISBN 978-1-4329-7108-3; ISBN 978-1-4329-7117-5. LC 2012008395.
––––. Dealing with Feeling Shy. ISBN 978-1-4329-7109-0; ISBN 978-1-4329-7118-2. LC 2012008396.
––––. Dealing with Feeling Worried. ISBN 978-1-4329-7110-6; ISBN 978-1-4329-7119-9. LC 2012008397.
ea vol: illus. by Clare Elsom. 24p. (Dealing with Feeling… Series). further reading. glossary. index. websites. Heinemann. 2013. PLB $22.65; pap. $6.49.
Gr 1-2–This community-minded series aims to help readers identify common emotions they or others might have. Students are assured that it’s normal and acceptable to feel negative feelings, but they must be expressed in ways that are not hurtful to others. Jealous, Proud, Sad, and Shy are notable for their nuanced treatment of complex affects. The multicultural casts of expressive cartoon characters are depicted in numerous situations. Each volume contains a “Toolbox” activity that advises readers to write down ways to maintain good feelings and dispel bad ones. This series’ greatest weaknesses are an overly stylized font and the vague glossary definition of “feeling.” Nevertheless, its content is Common Core State Standards ready and will instill self-awareness in children, meriting inclusion in elementary school libraries.

Grades 5 & Up

ALLEN, Kathy. Cell Phone Safety. ISBN 978-1-4296-9945-7; ISBN 978-1-62065-796-6. LC 2012020252.
SCHRIER, Allyson Valentine. Gaming Safely. ISBN 978-1-4296-9946-4; ISBN 978-1-62065-800-0. LC 2012029268.
SCHWARTZ, Heather E. Cyberbullying. ISBN 978-1-4296-9944-0; ISBN 978-1-62065-798-0. LC 2012020253.
––––. Safe Social Networking. ISBN 978-1-4296-9943-3; ISBN 978-1-62065-802-4. LC 2012026027.
ea vol: 32p. (Fact Finders: Tech Safety Smarts Series). further reading. glossary. illus. index. photos. websites. Capstone. 2013. PLB $26.65; pap. $7.95.
Gr 4-6–While each volume in this series focuses on a different area, similar message are found in all of them: think before you send, follow the rules, keep private information safe, don’t be a bully, and don’t be afraid to ask an adult for help. Beyond these basics, important topics covered include monitoring one’s online presence; the role of real money in virtual games; the risk of using social networking apps on a cell phone; and the key to a solid username and password. Each title also includes a reminder to unplug and enjoy real life. Bold charts and graphics and large color photos and images add a magazinelike twist to the textbook format. “In the News” text boxes relate anecdotes and facts while “Talk About It” boxes offer up scenarios to prompt critical thinking and excellent home or school conversations. Vocabulary words are in bold and defined at the bottoms of the pages on which they appear as well as in glossaries with pronunciation guides. Must-have titles for reports and self-education alike.

GOGERLY, Liz. A Teen Guide to Eco-Fashion. ISBN 978-1-4329-7045-1; ISBN 978-1-4329-7050-5. LC 2012009954.
GREEN, Jen. A Teen Guide to Eco-Gardening, Food, and Cooking. ISBN 978-1-4329-7046-8; ISBN 978-1-4329-7051-2. LC 2012009955.
MORRIS, Neil. A Teen Guide to Eco-Leisure. ISBN 978-1-4329-7047-5; ISBN 978-1-4329-7052-9. LC 2012009965.
SENKER, Cath. A Teen Guide to Being Eco in Your Community. ISBN 978-1-4329-7044-4; ISBN 978-1-4329-7049-9. LC 2012009949.
ea vol: 56p. (Eco Guides Series). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Heinemann. 2013. PLB $33.50; pap. $9.49.
Gr 7-10–These information-packed guides have a clear message: When it comes to being eco, you don’t have to do everything, but there is no excuse for doing nothing. Teens with a variety of interests will find ways to go green–from revamping old clothing to buying locally grown food to organizing a community litter pick-up. Short sections of text (many cleanly divided by bulletin points), numerous sidebars, captioned color photos, charts, and diagrams will keep readers engaged. Case studies of innovative youth-run projects around the world, math formulas to calculate water flow, and detailed projects lend this series to use in various curriculum areas. Extra materials include quizzes, suggestions for further learning, and an ample index. Though the many links included in the texts may give this set a limited shelf life, and there has been a lot published on this topic, these titles meet Common Core State Standards and are a smart choice for librarians looking to replenish or replace materials.

Several of these series merit first purchase. Those making selections for elementary school students will want Heinemann’s “What Would You Do?” and “Dealing with Feeling…”.  Both series instill self-awareness by reminding children that their actions impact others around them. For older students, Sea-to-Sea’s “Let’s Read and Talk About” is notable for its many discussion topics and extra activities. Capstone’s “Fact Finders: Tech Safety Smarts” is a stand-out, offering late-elementary and middle-school readers an engaging, informative look at technology literacy without being alarmist or condescending. Heinemann’s “Eco Guides” is a fantastic addition to young adult collections; teens with a special interest in ecology will read these voluntarily, and teachers will be drawn to the cross-curriculum activities and wealth of information.