Two boys, one in the U.S. and one in India, are penpals, exchanging letters about their lives. They (and the reader) learn that despite living in two...moreTwo boys, one in the U.S. and one in India, are penpals, exchanging letters about their lives. They (and the reader) learn that despite living in two different places, their lives are similar in many respects. The colorful multi-media illustrations are superb and really add to the story. Parents and teachers might remember being penpals with a child living in a different country but students today have instant access through social media, so pre-teaching about the long-lost art of letter writing would be helpful. A great story to begin a unit on global awareness for the elementary-age set. Pair with "Off to Class: Incredible and Unusual Schools Around the World by Susan Hughes.(less)
Just wonderful! Full of bright, colorful photos and maps, this book begins by stating the importance of education and includes the sentence, "Educatio...moreJust wonderful! Full of bright, colorful photos and maps, this book begins by stating the importance of education and includes the sentence, "Education is so important that the United Nations says it is a basic human right." Following the one-page introduction, readers learn about 23 schools that have adapted to the needs of local children. The first school described is a boat, serving children in Bangladesh who cannot attend school during months of monsoon flooding. Children of nomads in Siberia are served by a school that travels by sledge; the school is housed in a tent and may include teaching in foreign languages and computer skills in addition to the curriculum prescribed by the Russian government. Glasgow, Scotland's Hazelwood School was built to accomodate students with disabilities. Design features such as a variety of building materials for sensory differentiation and lower ceilings for audio changes were purposefully included; students study life skills such as cooking and technology. Text boxes give facts about each country and a short biography is given for a student at each of the schools. This delightful book teaches cultural awareness and will be a superb addition to lessons on global issues(less)
The purpose and part of the nervous system are described from the spinal cord to synapses. Words defined in the glossary are identified in bold, makin...moreThe purpose and part of the nervous system are described from the spinal cord to synapses. Words defined in the glossary are identified in bold, makin git easy for students to find the most important terms as they read through the book. The full-color illustrations are excellent; the detailing is enough that a health teacher told me this was just the right book for her students! The photos include people of all ages, making it a resource that will be used by all learners, despite being marketed for elementary-age students. An index and the afore-mentioned glossary are included. Rourke's Let's Explore Science series includes books on Earth an Space Science, History and Nature of Science, Physical Science, Life Science (of which this book is a part), Science and Technology, and Science as Inquiry. 48 pages. A solid purchase.(less)
Rourke's My Science Library is a great resource for elementary school students and for older students and adults are are either learning English or ar...moreRourke's My Science Library is a great resource for elementary school students and for older students and adults are are either learning English or are struggling with the language. The large font, color map, photos and diagrams, and numerous other text features make the book pleasing to the eye; the text consists of one paragraph per page, with words from the glossary in bold. The superb color photos, many of them close-up shots, more than adequately complement the text. A three-quesiton quiz finishes off the book. 24 pages; includes index and the afore-mentioned glossary. An excellent resource.(less)
Part of Scholastic's 2013 series on the continents, this title follows the well-known format of other Rookie Read-About books. The 32 pages generally...morePart of Scholastic's 2013 series on the continents, this title follows the well-known format of other Rookie Read-About books. The 32 pages generally alternate between text and full-page color photos. Basic information is given about people and animals that live on the continent, geography (water and land) and "Modern Marvels." The plural is not necessary since the Library of Alexandria is the only item discussed on the page. Four words with pictures are printed on the "Words to Know" page; I would prefer the title be "Glossary" so that young people can begin the learn the descriptors they will use in school. The index includes many more words than I would've expected in a book this length, a very nice surprise.(less)
Sam, Matt and Luke don't agree on what to call their new clubhouse, artfully made of cardboard boxes. Sam's sister Bea tires of the arguing and unwitt...moreSam, Matt and Luke don't agree on what to call their new clubhouse, artfully made of cardboard boxes. Sam's sister Bea tires of the arguing and unwittingly comes up with the name. Bea is dressed in pink, holds a pink stuffed animal, and plays with a pink tea set; the two-page spread where she yells about the clubhouse is predominantly pink and white. Is the message "Pink is for girls?" My feeling is that while adults might see that, children might not. Each of the boys has a different skin color. Love the whimsical illustrations.(less)
The family is going on a bike ride and Jack longs to ride on his own, not behind Dad. Dad takes off the training wheels but Jack can't master the skil...moreThe family is going on a bike ride and Jack longs to ride on his own, not behind Dad. Dad takes off the training wheels but Jack can't master the skill. Instead Dad takes him to the park where Jack learns to ride going down a hill. Sight words with brightly-colored illustrations will be fun for children but how unrealistic is the way Jack learns to ride? If he can't keep upright on a driveway, how does he figure it out on a hill? Suggested grade and reading levels on the back cover help parents find the right book for their child.(less)
The prince of England has chosen a bride, and it's Claire's cousin, Belle! As a junior bridesmaid, Claire is full of nerves; snooty Pandora, another b...moreThe prince of England has chosen a bride, and it's Claire's cousin, Belle! As a junior bridesmaid, Claire is full of nerves; snooty Pandora, another bridesmaid, makes things worse by trying to ruin the wedding. Claire's best friend, Evie, is a stalwart supporter whose wit via texting and Skype keeps Claire on an even keel. Comparisons with the recent royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton are inevitable. Some upper elementary and middle school girls will enjoy this light read for the royalty, romance (just a bit), and even the evil Pandora.(less)
There's a lot of information crammed into these 48 pages, full of color photos and three maps. The history section begins in the Middle Ages and moves...moreThere's a lot of information crammed into these 48 pages, full of color photos and three maps. The history section begins in the Middle Ages and moves up to the 2004 inclusion of Poland in the European Union. Of particular interest to student researchers might be the information about education in Poland, where kindergarten begins at age three and teens are routed to either general secondary schools for college preparation or to vocational secondary schools followed by moving into a trade right after high school. Text features such as bold, italics, graphs, and text boxes point the reader to important information. The large amount of white space and numerous photos might entice even the most relucant reader to choose this book. Interestingly, the other countries included in this "Looking at Europe" series are all from what might be considered eastern Europe: Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia.(less)
This First Graphic title from Capstone Press is part of the Wild Earth set that which also includes Earthquakes!, Hurricanes!, and Tornadoes! In addit...moreThis First Graphic title from Capstone Press is part of the Wild Earth set that which also includes Earthquakes!, Hurricanes!, and Tornadoes! In addition to explaining what volcanoes are and how they "work," a section describes steps to take to keep oneself safe in the event of a nearby volcanic eruption. The graphics are appealing and cross-sections of the earth add depth and perspective. A great source for the intended elementary-age audience but also for older readers who struggle with comprehension. A top-notch selection. (less)
Stone Arch Books has added more titles to the outstanding Jake Maddox Sports Stories series. Each story features young people competing in a variety o...moreStone Arch Books has added more titles to the outstanding Jake Maddox Sports Stories series. Each story features young people competing in a variety of sports and includes illustrations that nicely complement the realistic look at struggles athletes overcome when trying to juggle practice time, school work, and home life. Plenty of white space and a somewhat large font make the books appealing to reluctant readers. Although marketed to upper elementary students, these books are a hit at my middle school not only with struggling readers and those new to the English language, but also to athletes who want a quick read. You can't go wrong with any of the Jake Maddox books. In Volleyball Dreams, Ramona spends all her non-school time at the beach, perfecting her skills on the volleyball court. Development threatens the court and she finally realizes what it means to be part of a team.(less)
Marshall Cavendish's Money Smart series uses color photos, lots of white space and up-to-date facts to teach pre-teens and teens about different uses...moreMarshall Cavendish's Money Smart series uses color photos, lots of white space and up-to-date facts to teach pre-teens and teens about different uses for money, be that in Borrowing, Earning, Investing, Saving, or Spending (the titles of the five books in the series). This title discusses the first jobs known to man (hunting and gathering), how to choose a job that you don't just like but love, and how to best prepare yourself for the world of work. Text boxes of interesting information have a green background (green, the color of money, get it?) and the glossary includes all the words necessary in what may a child's first book about money. Lists of books and websites with more information will be helpful to today's readers. A solid purchase. Thanks to Puget Sound Council for the review copy.
ABDO's Magic Wagon "Graphic Shakespeare" series offers a short brief look at 16 plays by the Bard. This title is included in set 2. Bright yellows and...moreABDO's Magic Wagon "Graphic Shakespeare" series offers a short brief look at 16 plays by the Bard. This title is included in set 2. Bright yellows and greensshowcase the female leads in the play while dark browns set apart the men. A page of text about the play complements the illustratons and a glossary is included. Useful as an introductory text. Thanks to Puget Sound Council for the review copy.(less)
This biography is told by a mother, Hope, to her son. Bryan Collier's watercolor and collage illustrations are beautiful and spot-on with the story be...moreThis biography is told by a mother, Hope, to her son. Bryan Collier's watercolor and collage illustrations are beautiful and spot-on with the story being told. My biggest issue is God speaking to Barack Obama. Is this sending a message to children that only those individuals spoken to be God will succeed? Perhaps children will not interpret that part of the story as I did but it did cause me to pause. The timeline and family tree at the end of the story are helpful. This edition is revised and updated for the 2012 election according to the front cover. Thanks to Puget Sound Council for this review copy.(less)
Capstone's First Facts series' are known for providing basic information to a target audience of primary-grade elementary students. Large, colorful ph...moreCapstone's First Facts series' are known for providing basic information to a target audience of primary-grade elementary students. Large, colorful photos show aspects of life in Africa with maps detailing the countries, landforms, and population density of the continent. Words in bold are defined at the bottom of the page and repeated with pronunciation guide in the glossary. A list of print and internet resources is provided. A solid choice for both young readers and for older readers learning English. Thanks to Puget Sound Council for the review copy.(less)
Explore the sense of taste with a new friend named Popcorn. And yes, it is a piece of popcorn. After naming the five senses, Popcorn describes how the...moreExplore the sense of taste with a new friend named Popcorn. And yes, it is a piece of popcorn. After naming the five senses, Popcorn describes how the body parts are used to identify taste, which in turn helps identify types of food. Large illustrations are found on every facing page with Popcorn mimicking the children's actions and expressions. Young readers and those being read to will delight in those illustrations, particularly the one with the slice of pizza. A glossary defines words found in bold blue ink throughout the text. The publisher's website links to other sites related to the content of the book. Other books in the series focus on the other four senses. A good beginning source for youngsters. Thanks to Puget Sound Council for this review copy.(less)
This prequel to Skellig is a difficult book for me to judge. Who is the intended audience? Preteens? Mina is a young girl whose father has died and af...moreThis prequel to Skellig is a difficult book for me to judge. Who is the intended audience? Preteens? Mina is a young girl whose father has died and after difficulties at school, is being homeschooled by her mother. She is a free spirit who has a favorite tree which she climbs to watch the world and write in her journal. She is inquisitive, a young girl who asks questions about the world which seem a bit out of place coming from someone so young. She is a dreamer, thoughtful and kind. This was a book I just didn't get. Perhaps if I'd read Skellig prior to this book, Mina's story would make more sense. I see it as a good teacher reference for writing activities but don't think it would be a book checked out much in my library. Thanks to Puget Sound Council for the review copy.(less)
Loincloths, crinolines, and knickerbockers--what are they and what was their purpose? You'll learn these facts and a lot more in this clever book abou...moreLoincloths, crinolines, and knickerbockers--what are they and what was their purpose? You'll learn these facts and a lot more in this clever book about the undergarments worn since the beginning of mankind. The reasons for a particular style of under-things will amuse and possibly amaze you. Thoughtful consideration went into the styling of this book, with a blue plaid background on most pages being reminiscent of the fabric of boxer shorts, additional information being printed on what appears to be a fabric tag sewn into underwear and labeled "P/P Private Part," and a clothesline-type drawing across the top of most pages with underwear or sleeveless tees hanging from the line. The cartoon-like characters and drawings will cute and appropriate to the intended audience. This book will have high appeal to the 10-14 age group.(less)
Preteen Chinese-Australian Mimi is embarrassed of her Asian heritage. Her schoolmates call her names because of the food odors which cling to her clot...morePreteen Chinese-Australian Mimi is embarrassed of her Asian heritage. Her schoolmates call her names because of the food odors which cling to her clothes and her father disapproves of the one thing which makes Mimi happy--painting. She is given a set of magical pastels which allows certain people to "enter" the paintings she draws on the sidewalk. A jealous classmate steals the pastels and Mimi fears harm will come to the girl.
This sweet story emphasizes the confusion felt by a girl who just wants to fit in. Her parents want Mimi to be involved in Chinese activities and to be proud of her heritage but they don't understand what misery she is put through at school (real and imagined). A good chapter book with vocabulary appropriate for upper elementary students. Thanks to Puget Sound Council for this review copy.(less)
Ethan is at summer camp while his parents go to Europe. Socially awkward, he just wants to survive, not be hated, and not be the worst at anything (th...moreEthan is at summer camp while his parents go to Europe. Socially awkward, he just wants to survive, not be hated, and not be the worst at anything (this is a tall order for the young man). A new boy is put in Ethan's cabin but the rumors which preceeded Zach's arrival make the cabinmates curious about his past. When Zach decides to do the Big Swim at night, Ethan and Amber go along for support.
The nicknames which the cabinmates called each other annoyed me, as did the mystery at the end, that being what was in the letter and what happened to a couple of the characters. It would be a satisfying short chapter book read for upper elementary students.(less)
The concept of this book works well for teaching about diversity in the daily life of children around the world. The 13 schools are each given a two-p...moreThe concept of this book works well for teaching about diversity in the daily life of children around the world. The 13 schools are each given a two-page spread with color photos and a text box showing a map of the region with the particular country shown in a box, a picture of the country's flag, and about five sentences about the country itself. Readers learns about students who live far from a population center using computers to connect with teachers, students who are home-schooled, students who paddle small boats from home to a larger boat that serves as their school, and students whose schools are monasteries and castles.
A couple issues with the book struck me immediately: the title, "My School in the Rain Forest," seems to indicate that the book is solely about one school in the rain forest, which it is not. The subtitle, "How Children Attend School Around the World," is a better representation of the book's contents. Also, there are two mistakes relating to country maps. The world map at the beginning of the book correctly shows the countries that include the schools being discussed, but on the two-page spreads, Afghanistan and Myanmar are incorrectly labelled in the box. This lack of editing brings my original rating of 4 stars to 3. (less)
Penny’s friend, Buck, tells her about the need for donations at the animal farm where he volunteers so Penny and her friends organize a neighborhood m...morePenny’s friend, Buck, tells her about the need for donations at the animal farm where he volunteers so Penny and her friends organize a neighborhood movie theater for the cause. But Iggy the pig uses money that has fallen on the floor for his own treats; his punishment is scooping out pens at the farm.
This Step into Reading title will amuse children but they may be confused by the fact that although Iggy stole the money, he was under pressure while working the snack stand and put the fallen money under his hat. A good introduction to volunteerism and money management. Thanks to Puget Sound Council for the review copy.(less)
Joyce's fantastic story about books is superbly illustrated by Joe Bluhm. Guess what I'm reading and showing to my 7th graders tomorrow? Yes, 7th grad...moreJoyce's fantastic story about books is superbly illustrated by Joe Bluhm. Guess what I'm reading and showing to my 7th graders tomorrow? Yes, 7th graders, because no one is too old to let their imagination run wild with a good picture book. (less)
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