The Foods We Eat

Children's Literature - Meredith Kiger

One of twelve in the "Science Behind" series, this title explores questions about foods we eat. Using an interesting, mixed layout and easy to read text, the book, aimed at upper elementary and middle school students, introduces the concept of "exploring the world of food through science" and then answers thirteen questions about foods. How bees make honey, the difference between fruits and vegetables, brown bread versus white bread, and so on, are questions answered using color photos, maps, and boxed items of related interest. Boxed "Word Watch" defines new vocabulary included in each chapter and "Web Watch" provides further sources of information about the particular subject being explored. The thirteen questions selected are ones that will interest students and the well researched text provides just the right amount of information using a variety of methods. Focusing on food and its importance to our health could not be more important as obesity and resulting health issues continue to rise in this country. Providing the science behind foods gives students information about "why" it is important to eat certain foods and promotes the usefulness of science, as well. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger, Ph.D.