Series Made Simple

STEM offshoots continue to proliferate as authors and publishers find ingenious new angles with which to present well-worked topics and material, from a look at innovative inventions to a glimpse at engineering efforts.

Whether curious about how amber is created or what the difference is between a neutron and a neutrino, readers are asking questions, and publishers are answering them by offering a multitude of series that appeal to inquisitive minds.

The titles here take on a variety of themes and are aimed at a range of readers. Younger students will learn the basic principles of phonetics and punctuation, while those in higher grades will refine their analytical and writing skills to create sophisticated essays and other writings, learn about art masterpieces and major art movements through history.

“Put that phone down and look around you.” That common refrain reminds us how often we encourage students to be more aware of the world around them. These series provide readers that “good look around” that will broaden their outlooks and help them learn about the basics of geographic terms and themes.

Animal books don't sit on the shelves long, and the best of these series will keep students thinking long after they've finished reading. Poison dart frogs, feral pigs, and Tasmanian devils are just a few of the wild things covered here.

Vampires, zombies, werewolves, witches, and other familiar topics are covered yet again in this season’s selections. mythology and paranormal series. Sensational appeal is reflected in gory picture choices and in the phrasing of titles. Several series play on the idea of mystery, both in their titles and in posing a central question: Might these creatures or events be real or have existed in some earlier time?

Ancient empire, war, and inventions that revolutionized history are just a few of the topics covered here. The best of these sets take readers beneath the historical surface and give them in-depth information and analysis that will supplement and enhance what they are learning in class and help them gain a deeper understanding of the world’s past.

Whether kids are wondering what pet to get or eager for information on more exotic options, these titles will satisfy their needs and keep them coming back for more.

Yep, you’re going to need to know how to squeeze water from a frog and make your own solid perfume when the grid goes down—or at least you’ll want to know kids who have those skills! These books teach readers to think outside the box when looking for entertaining activities, from making ice cream to creating a geocache.