Science & math.(Bibliography).

Recognizing recent fossil discoveries and the continually evolving nature of knowledge available on dinosaur life, Arnold explores ichthyosaurs, plesiosaurs, and mosasaurs, sea creatures that lived from 240 to 265 million years ago. Oversized spreads featuring action-packed, watercolor illustrations accompany a matter-of-fact, information-filled text. [B]

BISHOP, Nic. Nic Bishop Spiders. photos. by author. 48p. glossary, index. CIR Scholastic. 2007. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0439-87756-5. LC 2006047179.

Gr 3-5-Bishop's lively text provides an informative introduction to arachnids, but it's the stunning, close-up photos of these creatures in action that are the real draw. Readers will be mesmerized by crystal-clear images of a fishing spider clutching a downed dragonfly, a tarantula rearing up--fangs displayed--to frighten an enemy, and a jumping spider's astonishing leap across a four-page foldout. [B]

BONNER, Hannah. When Fish Got Feet, Sharks Got Teeth, and Bugs Began to Swarm: A Cartoon Prehistory of Life Long before Dinosaurs, illus. by author. 44p. charts. Nags. maps. appendix, bibliog. chron, glossary, index. Web sites. CIR National Geographic. 2007. Tr $16.95. ISBN 978-1-4263-00783; FLB $25.90. ISBN 978-1-4263-0079-0. LC 2006020768.

Gr 3-6--With funny cartoon quips and a blithe tone, Bonnet introduces Earth's inhabitants during the Silurian and Devonian periods, describing the development of plants, insects, and water creatures and explaining how fish evolved into four-legged animals--tetrapods--that became "the ancestors of all living vertebrates except for sharks and their kin." The information is abundant and crystal clear, and the illustrations are both entertaining and enlightening. [B]

CARSON, Mary Kay. Emi and the Rhino Scientist. photos. by Tom Uhlman. 57p. (Scientists in the Field). charts, maps. photos. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Houghton. 2007. RTE $18. ISBN 978-0-618-64639-5. LC 2006034517.

Gr 5-8--This striking photo-essay introduces Terri Roth, an endangered species reproduction expert at the Cincinnati Zoo, and her efforts to help a Sumatran rhino conceive and deliver the first calf born in captivity since 1889. Clear photos and lively text provide an intriguing look at these nearly extinct mammals, while explaining how science is used to breed captive animals and glean knowledge that will aid their wild relatives. [B]

COLLARD, Sneed B., III. Pocket Babies and Other Amazing Marsupials. 72p. charts. maps. photos. bibliog. further reading, glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Darby Creek, dist. by Lemer. 2007. Tr $18.95. ISBN 9781-58196-046-4. LC number unavailable.

Gr 3-7--Koalas, opossums, kangaroos, and the lesser-known bandicoots, numbats, and quolls are photographed close-up in their native habitats. Details about their evolution, behaviors, diets, and reproductive pouches are offered in a conversational text featuring humorous asides. A glossary, a list of Web sites, and maps and charts make this a valuable report tool. [B]

DAVID, Laurie & Cambria Gordon. The Down-to-Earth Guide to Global Warming. 112p. illus. photos. reprods. bibliog. further reading. glossary. index, notes. Web sites. CIR Scholastic/Orchard. 2007. pap. $15.99. ISBN 978-0-439-02494-5. LC 2006035705.

Gr 4-6--Packed with colorful graphics, catchy subtitles, and easy-to-understand examples, this chatty book covers the basics of global warming, explaining scientific concepts and discussing its effects on weather patterns and plant and animal extinctions. The final section offers hope for the future by providing suggestions for effecting change on both an individual and international level. [B]

FRADIN, Judy & Dennis Fradin. Volcanoes. 48p. (Witness to Disaster Series). diags. illus. photos. reprods. bibliog. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. National Geographic. 2007. Tr $16.95. ISBN 9780-7922-5376-1; PLB $26.90. ISBN 978-0-7922-5377-8. LC number unavailable.

Gr 4-7--This engrossing overview brims with spectacular photos and riveting quotes from scientists, photographers, and ordinary people who have experienced the drama and danger of eruptions. Lively chapters cover the basics, including famous blowups, how volcanoes shape and benefit our planet, and predicting future activity. [B]

HIRSCHI, Ron. Lions, Tigers, and Bears: Why Are Big Predators So Rare? photos, by Thomas D. Mangelsen. 40p. index. Web sites. CIR Boyds Mills. 2007. RTE $16.95. ISBN 978-1-59078-435-8. LC 2006037956.

Gr 3-5--Brief chapters on seven endangered predators, including the cougar, polar bear, lion, cheetah, tiger, grizzly bear, and killer whale, focus on the threats to their habitats and possible solutions. The compelling text and arresting full-color photographs make it difficult to imagine a world without these magnificent creatures. [B]

INVENTORS AND INVENTIONS. 5 vols. 1600p. charts. diags. illus. maps. photos. reprods. chron. further reading, glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Marshall Cavendish/ Benchmark. 2007. Tr $399.95. ISBN 9780-7614-7761-7. LC 2007060868.

Gr 5 Up--Twenty-one overviews ("Accidents and Mistakes," "Young Inventors") add depth to the 172 alphabetically arranged articles in this well-illustrated set. Coverage ranges from the ancient to the modern, and includes lesser-known inventions and many by women. A thematic table of contents and indexes (name, invention, and comprehensive) aid access. [B]

KAJANDER, Ann. Big Ideas for Growing Mathematicians: Exploring Elementary Math with 20 Ready-to-Go Activities. 109p. charts, diags, illus, photos, glossary, index. CIP. Zephyr. 2007. pap. $19.95. ISBN 978-1-56976-212-7. LC 2006100397.

Gr 4-8--From building four-dimensional models to creating a geometric hexaflexigon (kaleidocycle), this book presents intriguing hands-on projects that demonstrate basic mathematical concepts. In addition to clear step-by-step instructions and activity sheets directed toward students, Kajander provides helpful teaching materials, such as explanations of mathematical ideas, definitions of relevant terms, and extension activities. [B]

MARKLE, Sandra. Tough, Toothy Baby Sharks. photos, by author. 32p. map. glossary. index. CIP. Walker. 2007. Tr $16.95. ISBN 978-0-8027-9593-9; RTE $17.85. ISBN 9780-8027-9594-6. LC 2006101178.

Gr 2-5--Markle trawls the mysterious depths of shark life, describing how various species reproduce, the many different ways that pups are born, and how juveniles survive until adulthood. The enthralling text is matched with clear, colorful underwater photographs that depict awe-inspiring sights, such as a Draftboard Swell Shark emerging from its egg case. [B]

NICKLIN, Flip & Linda Nicklin. Face to Face with Dolphins. photos, by Flip Nicklin. ISBN 978-1-4263-0141-4. LC 2006036273.

ROSING, Norbert, with Elizabeth Carney. Face to Face with Polar Bears. photos, by Norbert Rosing. ISBN 978-1-4263-01391. LC 2006032847.

ea vol: 32p. (Face to Face with Animals Series), illus, map. further reading, glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. National Geographic. 2007. Tr $16.95.

Gr 3-6--Packed with full-color photographs, these eye-catching introductions to two popular mammals are narrated by wildlife photographers who intersperse information about animal behaviors, physical characteristics, and habitats with exciting firsthand adventures. Sidebars and notes offer suggestions for additional study and activities. [B]

RUSCH, Elizabeth. Will It Blow?: Become a Volcano Detective at Mount St. Helens. illus, by K. E. Lewis. 46p. Nags. maps. photos, further reading, glossary. Web sites. Sasquatch. 2007. Tr $18.95. ISBN 157061-510-1; pap. $13.95. ISBN 1-57061509-8. LC number unavailable.

Gr 4-6--Students can become volcanologists using this fact-filled series of mysteries and volcano-related experiments. Rusch describes the physical phenomena that preceded the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, and asks readers to use that knowledge to predict whether conditions on the mountain at other times resulted in an eruption or not. The unusual perspective and exciting photographs and cartoon illustrations enliven the plentiful scientific explanations. [B]

SCOTT, Elaine. When Is a Planet Not a Planet?: The Story of Pluto. 44p. diags. illus, photos, reprods, further reading. glossary, index. Web sites. CIP. Clarion. 2007. RTE $17. ISBN 978-0-618-898329. LC 2006100684.

Gr 3-6--Handling complicated concepts with ease, Scott traces the history of astronomy, describes how scientists test hypotheses and build on past discoveries, and discusses current-day theories and the reasons behind Pluto's reclassification as a "dwarf planet." Stellar images--a mix of dramatic photographs, artists' conceptions, and reproductions--further clarify the text and grab browsers' eyes. A not-to-miss resource. [B]

SINGER, Marilyn. Venom. 96p. diags. photos, bibliog, glossary, index. Web sites. Darby Creek, dist. by Lerner. 2007. Tr $19.95. ISBN 978-1-58196-043-3. LC number unavailable.

Gr 4-8--Short, conversational segments with tongue-in-cheek headings such as "Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary, How Does Your Garden Sting?" introduce poisonous creatures from around the globe, including snakes, ants, spiders, birds, jellyfish, and more. Color photos, playful sidebars, and an impressive Webliography serve browsers and researchers alike. [B]

SIY, Alexandra. Sneeze! photos, by Dennis Kunkel. 45p. glossary. Web sites. CIP. Charlesbridge. 2007. RTE $16.95. ISBN 978-1-57091-653-3; pap. $6.95. ISBN 9781-57091-654-0. LC 2005027567.

Gr 4-6--The reasons for and the anatomy of a sneeze are discussed in this accessible book that brings science into the context of everyday life. Super-magnified color photos of dust mites, cat hair, mildew, and sneeze-inducing agents contrast with the black-and-white photos of children at home and play, which feature captions with simple explanations about bodily reactions to the irritants. A terrific introduction to practical biology. [B]

TATTERSALL, Ian & Rob DeSalle. Bones, Brains and DNA: The Human Genome and Human Evolution. illus, by Patrick J. Wynne. 48p. diags, maps. photos, reprods. glossary. Bunker Hill. 2007. Tr $16.95. ISBN 1-59373-056-X. LC 2006931578.

Gr 5-8--Sophisticated concepts are explained as two cartoon mice deliver a current and thorough overview of the science and study of human evolution. Incorporating information from the New Hall of Human Origins exhibit at New York's American Museum of Natural History, this lively, kid-friendly volume features maps, diagrams, photos, and colorful artwork. [B]

VAN VLEET, Carmella. Amazing Ben Franklin Inventions You Can Build Yourself. 120p. illus, photos, reprods. further reading, glossary, index. Web sites. Nomad. 2007. pap. $14.95. ISBN 978-09771294-7-8. LC number unavailable.

Gr 4-8--Hands-on activities with directions for mimicking some of the inventor's many designs and ideas, including swim paddles and a kite, are combined with biographical tidbits, quotes, historical background, and black-and-white drawings to introduce the breadth of Franklin's role in American history. [B]

WARHOL, Tom. Chaparral and Scrub. ISBN 978-0-7614-2195-5. LC 2006015824.

--. Desert. ISBN 978-0-7614-2194-8. LC 2006015823.

--. Tundra. ISBN 978-0-7614-2193-1. LC 2006015822.

ea vol: 80p. (Earth's Biomes Series). maps. photos, bibliog, further reading, glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Marshall Cavendish/ Benchmark. 2006. PLB $32.79.

Gr 5-8--Full-color photos and informative text provide in-depth coverage of three biomes, describing each habitat's essential characteristics, adaptations made by resident flora and fauna (including humans), specific examples of these regions across the globe, and environmental concerns. These excellent resources will be helpful for detailed studies of ecological communities. [B]

WILSON, Hannah. Life-Size Reptiles. 48p. illus, index. Sterling. 2007. PLB $9.95. ISBN 978-1-4027-4542-3. LC number unavailable.

Gr 3-5--Plenty of full-color drawings against bright white backgrounds, several foldout pages with life-sized representations, and engaging chunks of text with bold headings make this oversized introduction to lizards, snakes, crocodiles, tortoises, and turtles absolutely irresistible. [B]

Everyday Simple Machines. video or DVD. 14 min. (closed captioned), with tchr's, guide, reproducible masters. Visual Learning Co. (visuallearningco.com). 2007. video: ISBN 978-159234-166-5, DVD: ISBN 978159234-167-2. $79.95.

Gr 3-5--The six major types of simple machines and their uses in daily activities are explained and demonstrated. Important concepts are defined at the beginning of the film and their applications are shown throughout the program. It ends with a summary and a five-question fill-in-the-blank quiz. [V] [D]

Natural Resources (Series). 4 videos or 1 DVD. 80 min. (closed captioned), with tchr's, guide, blacldine masters. Visual Learning Co. (visualleamingco.com). 2007. video: ISBN 1-978-59234-168-9, DVD: ISBN 1-978-59234-173-3. $299 ser., $89 ea. Includes: Earth's Natural Resources (ISBN 1-978-59234-169-6); Energy Resources (ISBN 1-978-59234-171-9); Everyday Natural Resources (ISBN 1-97859234-170-2); Sustainability of Natural Resources (ISBN 1-978-59234-172-6).

Gr 3-6--Each title in this informative series begins with a general explanation of the subject accompanied by live-action film or photos and concludes with a 10-question quiz. A conservation theme is woven throughout each program with topics covering energy sources, recycling, the protection of resources, the benefits of renewable fuels, and the consequences of overconsumption. [V] [D]

Planet Earth (Series). 14 videos or 14 DVDs. 42 min. ea. with tchr's, guides. Discovery Education (discoveryeducation.com). 2007. $650 ser., $49 ea. Includes: Caves (ISBN 160288-248-7/ISBN 1-60288-262-2); Deep Ocean (ISBN 1-60288-249-5/ISBN 1-60288263-0); Deserts (ISBN 1-60288-250-9/ISBN 1-60288-264-9); Fresh Water (ISBN 1-60288251-7/ISBN 1-60288-265-7); Great Plains (ISBN 1-60288-252-5/ISBN 1-60288-2665); Ice Worlds (ISBN 1-60288-253-3/ISBN 160288-267-3); Jungles (ISBN 1-60288-254 1/ISBN 1-60288-268-1); Mountains (ISBN 1-60288-255-X/ISBN 1-60288-269-X); Pole to Pole (ISBN 1-60288-256-8/ISBN 1-60288270-3); Seasonal Forests (ISBN 1-60288-2576/ISBN 1-60288-271-1); Shallow Seas (ISBN 1-60288-258-4/ISBN 1-60288-272-X); The Future: Saving Species (ISBN 1-60288-2592/ISBN 1-60288-273-8); The Future: Into the Wilderness (ISBN 1-60288-260-6/ISBN 160288-274-6); Living Together (ISBN 160288-261-4/ISBN 1-60288-275-4).

Gr 5 Up--Narrated by actress Sigourney Weaver, this documentary series offers an exquisite visual tour of the Earth, exploring its flora and fauna, as well as geographic points of interest on every continent. Each episode showcases a particular biome and highlights several interesting forms of life, exploring such topics as mating, food chains, and adaptation. [V] [D]

The Way Cool Game of Science: Matter. DVD. (closed captioned). Disney Educational Prods. (disney.go.corn). 2007. ISBN 159753-150-2. $49.95.

Gr 4-8--This fun science review game can be played on a DVD player or on a computer with a DVD drive. Two teams or two players alternate answering the questions--all related to the topic of matter and taken from original Bill Nye programs on atoms, chemical reactions, measurement, and phases of matter--in categories such as "Lab Vocab," "Fact or Fiction," and "Scientists at Work." Both correct and incorrect answers are followed by a clip from the Nye film that demonstrates or reinforces the concept. [D]

Weather Around Us. video or DVD. 14 min. with tchr's, guide, blackline masters. Visual Learning Co. (visualleamingco.com). 2007. video: ISBN 978-1-59234-174-0, DVD: 9781-59234-175-7. $79.95.

Gr 3-5--The narrator poses a series of questions about fundamental weather concepts that are discussed during the film. Key terms are explained and printed on-screen. The four factors that interact to influence weather (heat energy, air pressure, wind, and moisture) are introduced and the formation of clouds and types of precipitation are briefly discussed. The "You Observe!," "You Decide!," and ''You Predict!" sections provide opportunities for student interaction. [V] [D]

Weather on the Move. video or DVD. 14 min. (closed captioned) with tchr's, guide. Visual Learning Co. (visualleamingco.com). 2007. video: ISBN 978-1-59234-176-4, DVD: ISBN 978-1-59234-177-1. $79.95.

Gr 3-5--Set to a soft jazz background, a voiceover narration explains live-action footage from sources such as NASA and the National Weather Service. Various weather formations are described and weather terminology is defined. Up-to-date information is presented about specific storms such as Hurricane Katrina, while live footage shows the devastation caused by such phenomena. Graphics help to explain the concepts. [V] [D]

Crazy Machines 1.5: More Gizmos, Gadgets and Whatchemacallits. CD-ROM. Systems: Win 98 & later. Viva Media (viva-media. corn). 2006. ISBN 1-933408-30-7. $19.99.

Gr 4 Up--Students are challenged to use bellows, boards, blimps, batteries, and balls to move boxes, pour tea, and pop balloons. The game starts with "Inventor's Training Camp," 100 warm-up brainteasers to prepare players for part two, "New from the Lab." In both sections, a professor challenges players to construct machines that will accomplish simple tasks, using wild and offbeat pieces like gramophones, robots, and toasters. The tasks get progressively more difficult, but the concepts build upon one another, as players learn physics and engineering principles. [CD]

InventNow.org. inventnow.org/. United States Patent and Trademark Office and the National Inventors HallofFame Foundation, Inc. (Accessed 1/17/08).

Gr 3-8--Each of the play zones--environment, entertainment, design, investigation, space, and sports-at this young inventor's paradise features links to online activities that explore those topics. Open calls for inventions, a gallery of peer ideas, an events calendar, and a message board give the site a community feel. Registration (parental permission is required) allows students to track their progress. [W]

Women's Adventures in Science. www.iwaswondering.org. The National Academy of Sciences. (Accessed 1/2/08).

Gr 3-8--Lia is a hip cartoon guide who shows girls that it's cool to love science. Ten modern-day female scientists in various fields and the work they've accomplished are profiled through illustrated stories, lab activities, and scrapbooks. Fun graphics, an interactive time line of women's contributions to science from 1903 to 2004, and games add to the fun. [W]

[B]: Books, [V]: Video, [D]: DVD, [A]: Audio, [CD]: CD-ROM, [W]: Web Site

Source Citation:"Science & math.(Bibliography)." School Library Journal 54.4 (April 2008): S42(5). General OneFile. Gale. Alachua County Library District. 28 Sept. 2009
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