Reviews
A noteworthy review of Rev Up Your Writing from School Library Journal on November 1, 2015
These slim volumes present solid information and sound advice offered in concise, clearly written sentences printed in a large font. Written in a friendly, encouraging tone, they make for engaging reading. Cheerful, colorful cartoons and photos add to the visual appeal. Each title contains… View →
A noteworthy review of Long and Short Vowels from School Library Journal on November 1, 2015
Large, bold black type makes these books easy on beginner readers’ eyes. The visuals are strong: brightly hued page borders, text set in stark relief on white against vivid background colors, and crisply reproduced, child-friendly photos depicting adorable animals and a cast of delightful… View →
A noteworthy review of Exploring Dinosaurs from School Library Journal on November 1, 2015
Species facts and paleontology blend effectively in this dinosaur set. Each title starts with a story about a dinosaur in action; these are not especially gripping, but some link neatly to actual fossil discoveries that readers learn about later. A fairly thorough treatment of physical… View →
A noteworthy review of Pet Care from Booklist on October 1, 2015
This cuddly entry in the Pet Care series will elicit plenty of happy squeaks with its high-quality photos of snuggling and nibbling hamsters. The basic needs and habits of these creatures are addressed, as are best practices for new hamster owners. Accessible, easy-to-read text describes… View →
A noteworthy review of Ancient Warriors from School Library Connection on October 1, 2015
Each book in this series details the history of an historical warrior group. Chapters address origins, weaponry, battle tactics, and major battles. All books include captioned illustrations along with a timeline. While the main narrative emphasizes the history of leaders and their warriors… View →
A noteworthy review of Long and Short Vowels from Booklist on October 1, 2015
Part of the Long and Short Vowels series, this teaches kids different words that produce this titular sound by integrating them into a single, simple sentence: for example, ‘I smile when I ride my bike.’ Implementing the philosophy that children learn better through pattern recognition than… View →
A noteworthy review of Native Nations of North America from Children's Bookwatch on October 1, 2015
Featuring reinforced library binding and full-color photography throughout, Native Nations of North America is an anthology designed to teach young readers in grades 3-6 about native peoples who live in different regions of the continent. Each book touches upon multiple major native nations… View →
A noteworthy review of Classic Stories from School Library Connection on September 1, 2015
These short stories from famous authors deal with positive role models and relationships. Two of the books, Raymond’s Run and Thank You, M’am, take place in the city, are realistic stories, and involve black main characters. The other two books involve fantasy. The Monster That Grew Small… View →
A noteworthy review of The Smart Kid's Guide to Everyday Life from School Library Connection on September 1, 2015
Each title in this series contains four chapters on the subject, with captioned color multicultural photographs spread throughout the book. The back of each book contains a list of Top Ten Things to Know. Some books feature an example to start the first chapter. This series is a good… View →
A noteworthy review of The Human Body from School Library Connection on September 1, 2015
This introductory series provides easy-to-understand information about body systems for young students. Each book details how the body system works in a familiar scenario. Short chapters and simple text allow students to access the information at a developmentally appropriate level. Text… View →
A noteworthy review of Life in Water Biomes from School Library Connection on September 1, 2015
This series on life in the water world is a great introduction to habitats which connects to the elementary science curriculum. Each book is laid out in a simple and clean fashion with uniquely beautiful and vividly colorful captioned photographs. Short chapters use easily accessible… View →
A noteworthy review of Science Around Us from School Library Connection on September 1, 2015
Each book in this series is a great introductory science text. Students are first presented with an introductory passage stimulating prior knowledge; the text is very accessible. Further information is presented simply and understandably for a wide range of young readers and will certainly… View →