Light Waves

Gr 2–5—This book introduces readers to the concept of light waves. Two young children and an anthropomorphic cow take readers on a tour of light energy in its various forms. Readers learn about translucency, transparency, reflection, refraction, different kinds of rays (gamma, x-rays, UV light, radio waves), and more. A handful of simple hands-on experiments are also included, allowing students to learn more about how light travels and how it can be bent using common household materials. The explanations, while simple and concise, are conveyed at a brisk pace—and the book ends rather abruptly. The appealing illustrations nicely complement the concepts conveyed in the text. For example, seven colored waves with different crests and valleys emerge from a prism and reflect from a white piece of paper to portray how colors are observed. The book concludes with an index and glossary, but lacks any listing of additional resources.