The Skeletal System

Children's Literature

Ever wonder what is under your skin? Caroline Arnold has the answers in this title from the "Early Bird Body Systems" series. Bones serve many different functions, such as supporting the body and protecting organs as well as allowing us to turn cartwheels. Different bones come in many different shapes, from the irregular spine bone to the long straight leg bones. Parts of the bone serve different purposes, such as the periosteum, which helps bones grow and repair themselves. Bones change throughout a person's life: many parts that are made of cartilage at birth harden into bone as children grow up. The human skeleton is explained from top (the skull) to bottom (the feet). The various types of joints are illustrated with a picture of bone joints alongside mechanical joints. The function of ligaments and muscles with respect to bones is also described. Various study aids such as a diagram of the skeletal system, a "word detective" section, and a glossary help explain difficult terms. There is also a "Note to Adults" section that contains ideas for parents reading the book with their children. The numerous pictures of children doing different activities (all made possible by the skeletal system) and diagrams of bone structure aid understanding of this important body system. 2005, Lerner Publications, Ages 8 to 12.
—Amie Rose Rotruck

School Library Journal

Gr 3-4-Adequate introductions to three systems in the human body. The texts are succinct and include enough information to give very basic overviews. The illustrations are mostly decorative (children playing, drinking milk, holding a dog, doing cartwheels on a beach). The diagrams of skeletons, muscles, arteries, etc., are clear and easy to read. All three books include notes to adults about how to share these books with children. Additional purchases.-Christine A. Moesch, City of Tonawanda Public Library, NY Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.