April 1, 2009
Gr 2-5-From the difference between the formation of folded mountains and fault-block mountains to the role electrons play in electricity, and from a description of the worlds six major biomes to an explanation of the three states of matter, this series covers science fundamentals. Sidebars on many spreads extend the content, and each chapter includes a Real World Science Challenge, with answers provided in the appendixes. The double-spaced texts generally have a back-to-basics layout (nary a bold-faced font to be found and no full-page photos) and wont grab any reluctant readers. An informative, well-written series with no bells and whistles.
Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
April 1, 2009
Grades 2-4 Widely spaced lines of text and bright color photos combine to give this entry in the Real World Science series visual appeal for younger and reluctant readers alike. Though she skips such complexities as AC and DC, resistance, or how electricity is measured, Rau describes in clear, simple terms how static and current electricity behave and are used. She then goes on to introduce magnets and electromagnets, and closes with a discussion of how electricity can create magnetism and vice versa. Including six safe demonstrations dubbed Real World Science Challenges and capped with (mostly) audience-appropriate print and online resources, this may inspire budding Edisons to tackle the project-oriented likes of Sarah Angliss Electricity and Magnets (2001).(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2009, American Library Association.)