Editorials
School Library Journal
Gr 4-7- Intended for struggling readers, these hi/lo books take on popular topics-one in science and the other in social studies. Together, they cover the basics of mummies, tombs, and life in ancient Egypt. Gazette mimics a newspaper's layout with each "article" written by a different reporter. Although clearly written, the articles don't transition smoothly from one to the next, which may confuse readers. The traditional layout of Tombs is more successful. In both volumes, the color photographs and drawings greatly enhance the oversimplified texts. Sidebars throughout provide information such as "Shockers" and "Quick Recaps." However, "The Heads-Up on Expert Reading" boxes ("Many words in the English language can be used as both nouns and verbs. Some examples from this page are: ...,") are more helpful to teachers, and may be demeaning and distracting to students. Although these books may be valuable for those reading below grade level, Zahi Hawass's Curse of the Pharoahs (2004) and Tutankhamun (2005, both National Geographic) offer more detailed and engrossing texts and photographs.-Stephanie Farnlacher, Trace Crossings Elementary School, Hoover, AL