Children's Literature
- Jeanne K. Pettenati J.D.
Getting children to think about shapes in nature becomes an engaging endeavor with this fun filled science picture book. In addition to colorful illustrations and simple, direct text, children are provided with step by step activities they can do at home to learn basic scientific principles about shapes and strength (for example, eggs, fibers, and bridges), shapes in nature (spider webs, crystals, and stalactites), and filling shapes (cement, plaster, and gypsum), among others. Young scientists also learn about tessellated shapes, such as beehive honeycombs. The child friendly book design contains a scientific concept/experiment on each page spread. This title, which is one in the publisher's "Fun Science Projects" series, is a great choice for home and school libraries. It contains many excellent ideas for elementary school science projects and at-home rainy day activities. A glossary and a "Fantastic Shapes Facts" section are found at the back of the book. Reviewer: Jeanne K. Pettenati, J.D.
School Library Journal
Gr 3-5-Entertaining and instructional series entries. Double-page experiments consist of illustrated step-by-step directions with proper safety cautions, explanations of how or why they work, and suggestions for further exploration. Making Shapes uses shape making and shifting to illustrate concepts from different branches of science. Pushing and Pulling introduces gravity, weight, friction, hydraulic forces, fluid drag, and pulleys. Understanding Electricity uses a 6-volt battery and 6-volt lightbulb along with other simple household products to explain resistance and electroplating as well as the parts of an electric circuit itself. There are also projects showing the effects of static electricity and how batteries work. All three books have full-color photographs and cartoon drawings that are appealing and informative. Youngsters will pursue these titles for fun as well as for assignments.-Margaret M. Hagel, Norfolk Public Library System, VA
School Library Journal
Gr 2-5–This colorful series will appeal to young scientists. The 12 experiments per title demonstrate a variety of basic science principles and include a short description of the principle, illustrated directions, a section explaining “Why It Works,” and ideas for further exploration. The older children in the grade range could try many experiments on their own. Experiments in which adult help is required are clearly marked. Unfortunately, there are no materials lists, and some of the directions, for example Sound’s “Add a little paper to the inner box,” are imprecise.
