It Happens in Minutes

by Kim Thompson

How do you explain a measurement of time like a minute? This book clearly explains the concept using examples of every day activities with the equivalent time frame (in minutes). For example, a green light usually lasts one minute and a microwave popcorn bag pops in three to four minutes. Most examples are familiar to most readers, which are effective in showing the amount of time for each.

Typical nonfiction features are present – table of contents, index, glossary and bolded text for unfamiliar words. Further exploration of the topic is suggested with websites and books listed. Photos are clear and there is a very nice graphic of the different times we use, from one second to one year.

My only criticism is that an analog clock is portrayed on the pages and that will take some extra explanation from an adult. While the ability to read time in analog is a great skill, I’m not sure analog clocks are widely used. There is a page with a labeled clock face. There might need to be more explanation.

All in all, this is a nice addition to your collection, along with the other books in the series. Recommended.

This entry was posted in Reviewer's Library Type, Elementary Library, Recommendation, Recommend and tagged , , , by Candy Ranney. Bookmark the permalink.

About Candy Ranney

Candy is an elementary school librarian in Shelton, WA at the school where she was a student (so many years ago!). Her library is unique in that she brings her background and love of biology to her students in many ways. Not only does she have an awesome selection of science books; she also has a beaver, bobcat and mink sitting on her shelves and a variety of jarred specimens for her students to study. When she's not in the library, she is taking care of her baby trees on her tree farm and hanging out with her family and many pets. * 2025 WA Library Association School Librarian of the Year