Leukemia: True Survival Stories

Sandra Markle writes many nonfiction books for children.  Leukemia tells the story of two people with different types of blood cancer.  It follows each child through diagnosis and treatment.  Information is presented in easily understood text accompanied by full-color photos and micrographs – photos of individual cells.  The science behind the treatment is not overwhelming to the reader.  The book relates current procedures and technology.  It also includes an extensive list of resources for further information – books, websites, and addresses of foundations and programs.  Sandra Markle has done comprehensive research to present facts on this disease in an interesting and engaging format.  Other books she has written in this series are true survival stories of those with Bad Burns, Faulty Hearts, Lost Sight, Shattered Bones, and Wounded Brains.  Reading level is 6th grade.  Recommended addition to collection of medical information.

Jodie’s Passover Adventure

Budding archaeologist, Jodie wants to share her interest with her cousin Zach.  She wants to take him to Hezekiah’s Tunnel.  When Hezekiah was King of Jerusalem, he had a tunnel built as an escape route in case of attack.  Jodie’s dad challenges them to find the riddle in the middle.  As she and Zach walk the cold, wet tunnel, Zach imagines all sorts of scary things as Jodie calmly explains away all his worries.  They do discover the riddle, Jodie relates much of Jerusalem’s history, and they find an ancient coin.  Ksenia Topaz’s watercolor and pencil illustrations convey present and past Jerusalem.  The story is more about the history of the old city than it is of Passover and could be enjoyed any time of year.

Samurai

Samurai were at their most powerful  in medieval Japan (1100s – 1600s)They lived by a strict code of honor, to protect their daimyo, or lord.  Training began at a very young age to lead disciplined lives.  Photographs and illustrations show the armor and weapons that made them visibly quite formidable.  Training and practicing skills continued throughout their lives.  The history and names of famous Samurai are presented along with reasons the service of these great warriors came to and end.  This book provides very basic information about the life and times of men who lived by an extremely strict code of honor.  A glossary, index, a factsurfer website, and books to read are included.  One book is about ninjas, which are closely related in many ways to samurai, but not the same.  This book may act as a springboard to launch readers toward other sources to learn more about this strictly regimented and fascinating age.

The Friesian Horse

Almost always pure black, this stunning breed of horse is also known for its calm temperament.  One of the oldest domesticated horse breeds, their history goes back to the Middle Ages.  Friesian horses are all registered and only the best are approved for breeding.  Colorful full page photographs show these beautiful horses in a variety of settings and competitions.  Glossary, index, a factsurfer website, and books to read are included.  This is a good introduction to this popular breed that originated in the Netherlands (Friesland).

Arabians are My Favorite

Not only does Elaine Landau introduce this popular breed, she presents information about horses in general.  Owning a horse is a big responsibility and there are several things to consider before buying one as a pet – a place to keep it, equipments and tack, and the time it takes to care for one.  As one of the oldest breeds, artwork shows Arabians in ancient temples and tombs.  Originating in the Middle East, Arabians can be found today around the world working, racing, being ridden in competitions and shows, and being adored by their owners.  Readers will learn about the history of Arabians, how to measure height, coat colors, shelters, necessary equipment and gear, riding styles, gaits, and activities for enjoying horses.  A double page photograph shows labels for all parts of a horse.  Text boxes are pleasingly placed with large, colorful photos.  A good variety of information is packed into this 24 page book.  A glossary, index, and an assortment of books to read and websites for activities are in the back.

Fur

This nonfiction book for young readers shows examples of mammals that have fur, or hair.  It can be long or short, stiff or soft, a lot of a little.  Fur has different purposes for each animal – protection or camouflage.  Each page has a large color photograph and one sentence.  One of the last pages has many sentences on how fur helps animals all over the world.  More facts about fur complete the book.  Brief glossary and index included.  Quality nonfiction books for young readers are not common.  This book gives good information using simple sentences. Other books in the series cover feathers, scales, shells, and skin.

Badgers

Very young readers will find this nonfiction book on badgers filled with easily understood facts.  Habitat and diet are described.  Badgers can be formidable fighters when protecting themselves.  Simple, large text is paired with full-page, colorful photographs.  Included are a glossary and index.  Books for further reading include a fiction picture book and two nonfiction books, one of which has a similar reading level.  A factsurfer internet site is provided.  Beginning readers may need help accessing the site and reading the information.  Vocabulary for nonfiction topics is often difficult for those with emerging reading skills.  This book is written with those readers in mind.  Recommended for elementary libraries.

Toads

Young readers will learn the basics about this unique amphibian.  How they look, what they eat, and how they protect themselves are described in simple, large text paired with full-page, colorful photographs.  The life cycle, from eggs dangling in water, to tadpoles with gills, to adults with legs and lungs, is well explained.  Toads have defenses against predators that may amaze those just learning about this remarkable creature.  Included are a glossary and index.  Recommended books are written at a slightly higher reading level but will still be of interest to beginning readers.  A factsurfer internet site provides additional details although very young readers may need  help accessing and using the site.  Vocabulary for nonfiction topics is often difficult for those with emerging reading skills.  This fact book is written with those readers in mind.  Recommended for elementary libraries.

Black Holes

Black holes in space are a phenomena that are hard to study.  Formed when a large star burns out, the gravity pulls all surrounding matter, even light, in.  Scientists study this occurrence through telescopes both on earth and in space.  The photographs and illustrations are labeled and captions provide additional information.  The text is large and facts about this vast topic are basic.  Some vocabulary may be unknown to young readers but are explained on the page.  A few include pronunciation cues.  Theories about black holes were first suggested in the late 1700s.  Facts are still being gathered today.  A glossary and index are located  in the back.  An Abdo website provides supplemental and updated information on their Book Links page.  Young readers interested in space will enjoy this introduction to black holes.  Many stated details will lead to further investigations.  Recommended for elementary libraries.

Experiments with Rocks and Minerals

As with many True Books, this one starts with two statements, only one of which is true.  Jam-packed with information, definitions, and explanations, readers will learn many basic facts geologists know.  The first chapter tells how the scientific method works to help scientists learn.  Throughout the book are small experiments to test rock properties – crystal color, streak, and hardness.  When explaining how rocks are made, the three basic types of rocks (sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous) are described.  More experiments show how layers build up and break down.  This book provides a great balance between information and experimentation.  Experiments are well explained, include photographs, and provide a method of recording observations.  Other photos show rocks in various land forms.  In the back are recommended books to read, two excellent websites for further learning, two places to visit (complete with addresses and websites), a glossary with pronunciation clues, index, photo credits, and a bio. of the author.  Recommended addition to elementary school libraries and/or classroom collections.

Pheasant Hunting

Young, would-be hunters can read about the equipment, skills, and techniques needed when hunting for pheasants.  How to handle guns and what to wear to protect the hunter are among the safety tips given.  Almost every page has a “Wild Fact” box of related information.  Words to know are in bold font and defined in its own box on the page.  One double-page spread is a colorful photograph of the items used by well-equipped hunters.  The layout is pleasing, photos are clear and bright, and the text is large and easy to read.  Good introduction to pheasant hunting for beginners.

Scooby-Doo! Monster of a Thousand Faces!

Scooby-Doo and friends are embroiled in three monster stories in this graphic novel.  The first one, “Man of a Thousand Monsters”, concerns the graphic artists who create scary beings on computer and the make-up artists who use masks, molds, and latex rubber.  Who is scaring actors off the set?  The second, very short story, “Velma’s Monsters of the World – La Velue”, tells of a legendary monster that lived in France.  The third tale, “At Least that Beast”, is located in the Congo.  A witch doctor controls a dinosaur-like creature that is scaring people away from a diamond mine.  Scooby and friends discover clues that lead them to the origin of the mysterious beast.  Scooby fans will not want to miss the colorful artwork and fast action in this adventure of the Mystery, Inc. gang.

Colonial Towns

Beginning with a map and timetable of the 13 original colonies, young readers learn about life in Colonial America.  Words to know are highlighted and explained right on the page.  Additional related facts are found in small sidebars along with occasional comparisons of life “Then and Now”.  Five chapters showcase life in the towns, modes of transportation, what people did for entertainment, how news was shared within towns and surrounding areas, and the homes and lives of nearby Native American tribes.  A glossary page, which repeats all the highlighted words within the text, books of Colonial American projects, museums to visit, websites, and an index are included.  All website links work but are at a higher reading level than this book.  They do provide interesting additional information.  Other books in this series focus on clothes, food, homes, jobs, families, farms, and traditions.  This is a good resource for elementary libraries.

The Georgia Colony

This book begins with the history of the area that would eventually become the Georgia Colony.  Tor thousands of years, native Americans, namely the Creek and the Cherokee, lived in the region.  By the 1500s, Europeans began to explore North America.  Spanish had settled in Florida, British in South Carolina, and both  began to look toward the Georgia area for expansion.  From this point, several influential people are mentioned, along with the evolving way of life as more settlers arrived and political issues caused dissension.  Brief highlights from 9000 B.C.E. to the signing of the U. S. Constitution in 1788 are in the 48 page book.  Some information is a bit sketchy but certainly provides enough facts to encourage further investigation.  Included in the back are other books to read, websites, museums, to visit (addresses and websites provided), a glossary, index, and a note about the author.

When a Dragon Moves In

While the story concept is not new, Moore and McWilliam do a terrific job of supplying humor to a boy’s imagination.  “If you build a perfect sandcastle, a dragon will move in.” (First line in the story.)  And then the fun begins.  A young boy finds his soul-mate in his dragon as they toast marshmallows, swim, and fly kites.  It’s only when his family doesn’t believe in the dragon that the mischief starts.  The dragon becomes the scapegoat for the disappearance of all the sandwiches, blowing bubbles in the lemonade, and putting fingerprints in the brownies.  The last straw is when the dragon sprays sand all over his sister.  The castle and the dragon have to go – at least until the next day!  Is the dragon real?  Is it Dad?  Or, is it a combination?  Howard McWilliam’s hilariously expressive illustrations are perfect for this light-hearted beach tale.

These Hands

This beautifully illustrated picture book was inspired by a personal story.  A grandfather focuses his grandson’s attention on his hands – hands that competently did many things.  He lovingly shows his grandson Joseph how to tie shoes and bowline knots, throw baseballs, play piano, and shuffle cards.  The timber changes when he tells that “these hands” were not allowed to touch bread dough in the Wonder Bread factory.  His hands could only sweep floors, work the line, or load trucks.  He relates how “these hands” joined with others during the Civil Rights Movement and helped bring a end to discrimination.  Little Joseph takes over the story showing his grandpa what his young hands can do – with no limitations.  This is a message all children need to hear, that all things are possible.  Floyd Cooper, illustrator of many children’s books is a four-time recipient of the Coretta Scott King Honor.  His stunning sepia-toned artwork shows warmth, gentleness, and strength.  Mason includes an author’s note providing a brief historical background.

Jackie Robinson: Gran Pionero del Beisbol (Baseball’s Great Pioneer)

This graphic novel, written in Spanish, is a biography of the life of Jackie Robinson.  Always athletic, Jackie’s journey led him from being a juvenile delinquent, to sports in college, to playing on a small football team in Honolulu.  The highlights of Robinson’s rise through the minor and major leagues are well told and colorfully illustrated.  Readers will be attracted to this book about an amazing man – it’s about baseball and it’s in the popular comic book format.  The story is published in both Spanish and English.  A glossary, index, other books to read, and a facthound internet site are listed in the back.  The additional resources are not written in Spanish.  Recommended for elementary libraries.

My Horse, My Friend: Hands on Touch Training for Kids

Bibi Degn describes how to establish a respectful relationship with one’s horse using the TTouch way developed by Linda Tellington-Jones.  The touch was developed to create a safe and meaningful friendship for both the horse and the rider.  Degn relates the information with the help of her children, Joran, an Arabian gelding, and Angie, the “guardian angel” of animals.  Photographs by Horst Streitferdt clearly illustrate touches, use of equipment, and training procedures.  Pages tell of many aspects of horsemanship before and after riding – greeting, leading, grooming, mounting (both bareback and with a saddle), learning to “read” a horse’s mood, and using some equipment (halters, ropes).

Learning to Care for Reptiles and Amphibians

When people are thinking about pets to own, there are many things to consider.  The differences between reptiles and amphibians and how they have evolved from ancient times are presented first.  General facts are given about snakes, lizards, turtles and tortoises, frogs and toads, salamanders and newts, to help prospective buyers to make an informed decision.  Questions to think about (time, space, feeding, handling) and daily care to keep a pet healthy are presented for consideration before one buys a pet.  Some potential problems and challenges are listed.  Because many animals can live 10 to 50+ years, owning a pet can be a huge commitment.  Regular vet visits are encouraged as well.  Included in the back is a glossary, index, three books for further reading are written at a similar reading level, and three internet sites, one from the American Humane Association and two from National Geographic.  This book is an excellent resource and would be a good addition to an elementary library.

Top 25 Football Skills, Tips, and Tricks

For those who already enjoy football and for those just learning the game, this book is for you.  Skills for each aspect of the sport are detailed.  Almost every sentence tells how to do or how to improve plays in the game.  Colorful photographs feature individual moves or positions and many are labeled to point out specifics.  Football requires players to be in top physical condition.  Many tips are included for strength and agility training.  Tips and tricks from professional ball players provide additional hints on how to improve one’s skills.  Boxed insets offer even more information.  This book is jam-packed with useful facts, hints, and history of the game.  Books for further reading are written at a similar level.  FYI: one book, “Touchdown: The Power and Precision of Football’s Perfect Play”, is written by Mark Stewart, not Mike.  Internet addresses provide instructive information and videos.  Also included are a glossary and an index.  This book is highly recommended for libraries and personal collections.

Top 25 Baseball Skills, Tips and Tricks

For those who already enjoy baseball and for those just learning the game, this book is a must-read.  Skills for each aspect of the sport are detailed.  Almost every sentence tells how to do or how to improve plays in the game.  Colorful photographs feature individual moves or positions and many are labeled to point out specifics.  Tips and tricks from professional ball players provide additional hints on how to improve one’s skills.  Boxed insets offer even more information.  This book is jam-packed with useful facts, hints, and history of the game.  Books for further reading are written at a similar level.  Internet addresses provide instructive information and videos.  Also included are a glossary and an index.  This book is highly recommended for libraries and personal collections.

The Czech Republic

For those wanting to learn basic information about the Czech Republic, this book contain facts about the geography, wildlife, and people.  The Czech Republic has only been an official country since 1993, but history of the area goes back to the 1400s.  There are many interesting photographs accompanying the text.  Pronunciation of a few basic words are found on one page, yet pronunciation clues for the Czech terms of landmarks or traditional foods are not included.  The information in this book is current and accurate and provides good information for written reports.  A student would have difficulty speaking knowledgeably not knowing how to pronounce particular words.  Almost every page contains a “Did You Know” fact.  The layout is pleasing and colorful.  This book contains enough statistics to encourage questions and additional research.  Good introduction to an interesting country.

The Civil War: Leaders and Generals

Eight influential people are showcased in this Civil War book.  Brief snapshots of Abraham Lincoln, Jefferson Davis, General  Robert E. Lee, General Ulysses S. Grant, General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson, General George McClellan, Harriet Tubman, and Frederick Douglass tell of their views and decisions at this pivotal time in history.  Colorful photographs and artwork portray each person or event involving the person.  Glossary and index are included.  This is a good beginning resource for those wanting to know more about people who had significant impact during the time of the Civil War.

Wodney Wat’s Wobot

Cute little WodneyWat has trouble saying words with Rs.  On his birthday, he received a robot that repeats what he whispers – and corrects his pronunciation!  One day, obnoxious Camilla Capybara, the World’s Meanest Rodent, returned to school with her loud, bullying ways.  When Wodney’s robot malfunctions with growls, Camilla becomes frightened. Ironically, Camilla is the one to fix the robot.  When she announces she’s decided to stay, Wodney whispers one last command which scares Camilla off once again.  Lynn Munsinger’s delightful illustrations humorously show how the quiet, little underdog can win the day.  This is a fun story on its own, yet also provides many “teachable moments”.

Bike Mechanic

All bike riders will find this book a treasure.  Beginning with a description of types of bikes and basic tools needed for most repairs, this book is jam-packed with information for maintaining or modifying almost anything on a bike.  There are step-by-step instructions along with accompanying photographs.  Frequent insets provide additional information of tools needed or explanations of technical terms.  FYI ovals include general tidbits of useful facts or history of biking.  Knowing how to repair or adjust one’s bike inspires confidence for successful riding.  A troubleshooting section gives clues where to look for solving a problem.  The glossary includes terms highlighted within the text.  A timeline and index are also included.  Titles of other books for maintaining or riding are in the back of the book along with a facthound internet site that also provides online how-to videos on maintenance and repair.  This is an awesome resource for all bike riders.