Grades 5 and Up Reviews: December, 2005 continued 2

-- School Library Journal, 12/1/2005

Nonfiction Continued

MACDONALD, Fiona. Inside the Beagle with Charles Darwin. illus. by Mark Bergin. 48p. diags. maps. reprods. chron. glossary. index. Enchanted Lion. 2005. PLB $19.95. ISBN 1-59270-041-1. LC number unavailable.

Gr 4-6–Macdonald's informative text is complemented by many equally informative watercolor-and-ink illustrations. Readers will learn a great deal about life onboard the Beagle and its ports of call, as well as about Darwin's gathering of species, observations, and subsequent efforts to make scientific sense of both. The author also mentions the ship captain's violence with his crew and rather breezily describes his attempts to Christianize and educate four natives. Unfortunately, her writing is uneven: she does not include the ship's surgeon in the discussion of those onboard but refers to him as being jealous of Darwin on a later page, and she mentions Darwin's taking meals with the captain except when they "quarreled." Readers will wonder why they were quarreling. The text is choppy at times, with some lack of clarity. The small maps that show the route are helpful; for some reason, none include the Galapagos Islands. A time line of the voyage and another of Darwin's life and works enhance understanding. In spite of some weaknesses, this book will spark interest in the subject. Overall it is a good introduction to a famous voyage and the scientific theories coming from it.–Peg Glisson, Mendon Center Elementary School, Pittsford, NY

MCGLONE, Catherine. New York Times v. Sullivan and the Freedom of the Press Debate: Debating Supreme Court Decisions. 112p. (Debating Supreme Court Decisions Series). photos. reprods. further reading. glossary. index. notes. Web sites. CIP. Enslow. 2005. PLB $26.60. ISBN 0-7660-2357-5. LC 2004026781.

Gr 5-8–This title provides background information about and court proceedings of the famous libel case of the 1960s. Only four of the nine chapters deal directly with the case. "The 1960s and the Civil Rights Movement" offers necessary information regarding the racial divide in the nation, but mention of Elvis Presley, "the Twist," Barbie dolls, and the Nixon and Kennedy debate seems inappropriate in this context. Chapters two and three, "The Founding Fathers and the First Amendment" and "Freedom of the Press: History and Cases," provide a brief history lesson about free speech and the correlation between the First Amendment and the press. Chapter four, "The Road to the Supreme Court," uses the Montgomery, AL, police commissioner's case to explain the court system, but falls short in explaining the components of the arguments. "To win a case of libel, a plaintiff has to convince a jury of three elements," but the elements are not discussed until five pages later. "Moot Court: Your Turn to Debate" gives steps for participating in a mock judicial proceeding. The text is clear, but the organization of the book is difficult for readers with no prior knowledge of the justice system. Discussion questions, chapter notes, and an incomplete index are appended. This is an important case, but better information can be found in an encyclopedia.–Pat Scales, South Carolina Governor's School for the Arts and Humanities, Greenville

MILLER, Ron. Asteroids, Comets, and Meteors. 80p. ISBN 0-7613-2363-5. LC 2003010410.
––––. Mars. 96p. ISBN 0-7613-2362-7. LC 2003010139.
––––. Stars and Galaxies. 96p. ISBN 0-7613-3466-1. LC 2004030813.
ea vol: (Worlds Beyond Series). charts. diags. illus. photos. reprods. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. 21st Century Bks. 2005. PLB $27.93.

Gr 5-9–Like their predecessors, these entries in this valuable series combine clear, extended expositions with a vivid mix of colorful space photos, well-designed diagrams, and dramatic paintings of alien shores and skies. Asteroids begins with the Solar System's formation; goes on to describe how "Bode's Rule," a mathematical oddity involving the relative positions of some (but not all) of the planets, led to the discovery of the asteroid belt; and then takes readers through meteor showers and to "the tortured surface of a typical comet." Mars updates older titles with discussions of recent developments in the search for water and life on that dusty planet. Along with presenting pictures of the life cycles of both stars and the universe as a whole, Stars deals in unusual detail with galactic types and structures, capturing a sense of their immense scale with phrases like "only about 45,000 light years…." All three volumes end with speculative comments on future exploration or evolution, plus extensive lists of Web sites and recent books. Solid additions for serious students of "worlds beyond."–John Peters, New York Public Library

NADEN, Corinne J. & Rose Blue. Cornel West. ISBN 1-4109-1040-7. LC 2005005118.
––––. Henry Louis Gates Jr. map. ISBN 1-4109-1041-5. LC 2005004856.
––––. Toni Morrison. ISBN 1-4109-1043-1. LC 2005004825.
ea vol: 64p. (African-American Biographies Series). photos. reprods. chron. further reading. glossary. index. CIP. Raintree. 2005. PLB $32.86.

Gr 4-7–These biographies highlight individuals who are all authors, teachers, and public speakers. The writing is clear and accessible, and includes quote boxes that allow readers to hear the subject's own views on various topics. Morrison is the strongest of the three and follows the Nobel Prize winner from her childhood through to the present day. West includes fewer personal details and is, in fact, somewhat confusing as it mentions one marriage and then another nearly 20 years later without any bridging information. There is also a good deal of space given to people whom West admires rather than to his own work. Gates does a nice job of describing the Harvard professor's less popular decisions as well as his universally praised work in African-American studies. Unfortunately, all three titles are lacking bibliographies or source notes. However, plentiful black-and-white and full-color photographs, readable texts, and an inviting layout make these biographies acceptable choices for report writers and interested browsers.–Deanna Romriell, Salt Lake City Library, UT

NAFF, Clay Farris, ed. Evolution. 222p. (Exploring Science and Medical Discoveries Series). photos. reprods. chron. further reading. index. Web sites. CIP. Gale/Greenhaven. 2005. PLB $34.95. ISBN 0-7377-2823-X. LC 2004060590.

Gr 7 Up–Nineteen selections are arranged in roughly chronological order, beginning with ancient Greek philosophers whose ideas about nature hinted at evolutionary theories to come. The contributions made by Darwin's grandfather Erasmus Darwin; French biologist Lamarck; and Charles Darwin's contemporary, Alfred Russel Wallace, are described, often using the scientists' own words. An account of Darwin's experience aboard the Beagle leads to a selection from his famous publication in which he explains what has come to be known as the "survival of the fittest" process. William Jennings Bryan's objections to the teaching of evolution in public schools complete this section. The author then fleshes out evolutionary theory based on discoveries and research occurring in the last century and a half. Richard Leakey and Roger Lewin describe modern humans arising from primate origins. Two essays present creationist arguments against evolution, and two more rebut them. Finally, three selections present recent perspectives on the mechanisms of evolution, including the "Red Queen" theory, a feminist view of the important role of mothers in shaping evolution, and an evolutionary-based approach to medicine. All of the articles are substantial enough to give a clear picture of their main points. A lengthy index offers detailed access. This solid survey provides a good overview with manageable amounts of primary-source materials that would be dauntingly difficult to comprehend in their entirety.–Ann G. Brouse, Steele Memorial Library, Elmira, NY

PARKER, Steve. The Science of Air: Projects and Experiments with Air and Flight. ISBN 1-4034-7280-7. LC 2005006940.
––––. The Science of Sound: Projects and Experiments with Music and Sound Waves. reprods. ISBN 1-4034-7281-5. LC 2005006960.
––––. The Science of Water: Projects and Experiments with Water Science and Power. ISBN 1-4034-7282-3. LC 2005007027.
ea vol: 32p. (Tabletop Scientist Series). diags. illus. photos. chron. glossary. index. CIP. Heinemann Library. 2005. PLB $27.79.

Gr 4-7–These three oversize titles suggest fundamental experiments and projects using everyday materials. Each one begins with an introduction to the topic followed by two-page spreads of each scientific concept. The 12 experiments in each book have a materials list and step-by-step photo instructions. Boxed text explains the scientific ideas in each project and the processes that make it work, and offer ideas for further experimentation. The activities are followed by a history of the topic and a useful glossary. The first title introduces air movement, air pressure, wind resistance, lift, flight, and energy from the wind. The second book covers sound waves as they travel through air and underwater, high and low sounds, how we hear, the Doppler effect, soundproofing, and recorded sound. The third has experiments on the water cycle, water density, water as a solvent, surface tension, capillary action, buoyancy, water power, and water propulsion. The "Science Alive" series (Crabtree) covers each of the subjects in this series. However, the colorful illustrations, organization, and ease of use of Parker's titles make them excellent additions.–Ann Joslin, formerly at Erie County Public Library, PA

PARRY, Ann. Greenpeace. ISBN 0-7910-8815-4.
––––. Red Cross. ISBN 0-7910-8814-6.
ea vol: 32p. (Humanitarian Organizations Series). map. photos. reprods. chron. glossary. index. Chelsea House. 2005. PLB $20.95. LC number unavailable.

Gr 5-8–Each book discusses the history, founder(s), early work, and core values of the featured group. Vibrantly colored maps show where the organization is located throughout the world. Handy time lines are included. Both titles have "Concerns, campaigns, and classic actions" sections. In Greenpeace, actions include encouraging Americans to write to Martha Stewart to ask her to stop using PVC packaging. Then, four people involved in each association are introduced, putting a human face on the work it does. A section on how students can get involved is included. "Did you know?" boxes offer further, sometimes obscure facts. In Red Cross, for example, readers learn that Cambodian land mines injure 60 people every month. Color photographs are plentiful and add clarity. These titles are similar to those in the "World Watch" series (Raintree, 2004). Parry's books are sensible selections, especially for those libraries not already owning the Raintree books.–Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WI

RACZKA, Bob. Unlikely Pairs: Fun with Famous Works of Art. 32p. reprods. CIP. Millbrook. 2005. PLB $23.93. ISBN 0-7613-2936-6; pap. $9.95. ISBN 0-7613-2378-3. LC 2003014078.

Gr 4 Up–Raczka deserves an A+ for cleverness. He begins by explaining his premise: one work of art can take on new meaning when combined with another. Then, without further commentary, he couples famous pieces in a way that suggests a new, humorous scene. Rodin's The Thinker is juxtaposed with Klee's modernistic painting of a chessboard so that the statue looks as if it is contemplating the next move. Siméon-Chardin's picture of a boy blowing soap bubbles seems to be creating Kandinsky's Several Circles. Each selection takes up a page and is reproduced in crisp color. The book ends with a catalog that includes thumbnail illustrations and short paragraphs that go beyond artist and date to reveal interesting details about the works. More subtle than Jon Scieszka's Seen Art? (Viking 2005), this book is an amusing way to introduce children to famous works of art.–Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT

ROGASKY, Barbara, retel. Dybbuk: A Version. illus. by Leonard Everett Fisher. 64p. glossary. CIP. Holiday House. 2005. Tr $16.95. ISBN 0-8234-1616-X. LC 2004060624.

Gr 5 Up–This retelling of an early-20th-century play based on a Jewish legend is uneasily balanced between an evocation of European shtetl life and a ghost story. Leah and Konin were promised to one another by their fathers even before they were born. However, when Leah is old enough to be married, Sender, her father, wants her betrothed to a rich man. Konin, now a poor orphaned scholar, meets Leah and they fall instantly, irrevocably in love. Thwarted by Sender's greed, the young man studies the Kabbalah, searching for a way to obtain the necessary wealth. When he fails, he dies and comes back as a dybbuk–an unhappy spirit that possesses Leah's body and speaks through her lips. Though an exorcism is performed, she chooses to rejoin Konin and dies before she can marry the man her father has selected. Stories of the supernatural have undeniable appeal, but this one, with its archaic setting and strongly religious connections, seems too specialized for most collections. Rogasky's writing, which is full of inverted phrases (e.g., "Pious and sincere they were" or "Old it is, centuries old"), is distancing--even though she addresses readers directly at times ("Forgive me, Dear Reader. I cannot explain the meaning of all that happened…."). Fisher's dramatic black, white, and brown-toned illustrations add to the hard-edged, unyielding nature of the tragic tale.–Miriam Lang Budin, Chappaqua Public Library, NY

ROONEY, Frances. Extraordinary Women Explorers. 118p. (The Women's Hall of Fame Series). photos. reprods. further reading. Web sites. CIP. Second Story, dist. by Orca. 2005. pap. $7.95. ISBN 1-896764-98-3. LC C2005-900547-5.

Gr 4-7–Most of the dozen adventurous women described here had a few things in common: an insatiable curiosity, a need to challenge the mind and the body, and a desire to share with others what they learned. The entries are arranged chronologically, beginning with Sacagawea and concluding with Matty McNair and Denise Martin's 1997 British Women's Polar Relay to the North Pole. Other profiles include preacher and missionary Amanda Berry Smith, Canadian mountaineers Phyllis Munday and Sharon Wood, Inuit wilderness guide Ada Blackjack, French Buddhist traveler to India and Tibet Alexandra David-Néel, Near East enthusiast Freya Stark, and Irish bicycling explorer Dervla Murphy. Each account details some of the life-threatening dangers and extreme hardships these women endured to reach their goals. Remarkable photographs taken by American Edith S. Watson combine with the sensitive writings of her companion Victoria Hayward to record now-vanished ways of life and cultures of many Canadian peoples from the 1890s through the 1920s. Halftone photographs of the subjects, often in the field, and small sidebars of inspiring quotes or supplementary facts highlight the text. Rooney took much of her information from the women's own writings as evidenced by the list of resources appended. In size and scope, this work resembles many others on women explorers, discoverers, and inventors, but is certainly a valuable supplement to them rather than a duplicate.–Ann G. Brouse, Steele Memorial Library, Elmira, NY

ROSENBERG, Liz & Deena November, comps. I Just Hope It's Lethal: Poems of Sadness, Madness, and Joy. 190p. index. Houghton/Graphia. 2005. pap. $7.99. ISBN 0-618-56452-7. LC 2005004257.

Gr 9 Up–The poems in this diverse collection range from classic (Shakespeare, Lord Byron) to modern (by the compilers themselves). While some of selections might be too complex and antique for reluctant readers, most of the pieces are powerfully written and easy to understand. Sylvia Plath, Dorothy Parker, and Rumi are among the poets included. Two short introductions explain the inclusion of many of these selections and the significance of each of the book's five sections. A biography section gives interesting summaries of each poet's life. This efficiently organized, concise, and interesting collection is an excellent choice for libraries serving teens. However, as November states in her introduction, "This book is for everyone and anyone."–Jessi Platt, Auburn Public Library, AL

SHEINKIN, Steve. The American Revolution. illus. by author. 155p. (Storyteller's History Series). maps. index. Summer St. 2005. pap. $10.95. ISBN 0-9766367-0-0. LC 2005925977.

Gr 4-8–Sheinkin utilizes direct quotations and a lighthearted touch to bring our nation's history alive. The quotes, often displayed in cartoon word balloons, are woven neatly into a well-organized narrative. They range from the lofty phrases of Jefferson to such down-to-earth moments as Benjamin Franklin scolding roommate John Adams not to shut the window at night. Along with famous figures, readers hear from soldiers, farmers, and other lesser-known folk, though in most cases no sources are given. There's an irreverent tone to the text that makes all of these figures seem more human, though no less worthy of respect. John Adams, for instance, is described as a "well-known lawyer, Patriot, and grump." Major events are explained clearly, with well-chosen facts that draw readers' attention. A lively chapter on Paul Revere's ride, for instance, jumps deftly from Revere to the British and back while sprinkling quotes from at least nine different individuals. Add a few intriguing details, such as the petticoat that Revere borrowed to muffle the sound of oars, and the episode really comes to life. Wry chapter titles and cartoon figure sketches match the light tone of the text. Despite the levity, the magnitude of the Revolution comes through, and difficult questions are raised, such as the fact that many patriot leaders were also slave owners. Overall, this is a fine example of injecting humor into history, with strong appeal as an assignment resource or just a fun read.–Steven Engelfried, Beaverton City Library, OR

SONNEBORN, Liz. Forces in Nature: Understanding Gravitational, Electrical, and Magnetic Force. charts. reprods. ISBN 1-4042-0332-X. LC 2004011072.
VIEGAS, Jennifer. Kinetic and Potential Energy: Understanding Changes within Physical Systems. ISBN 1-4042-0333-8. LC 2004019126.
WILLETT, Edward. The Basics of Quantum Physics: Understanding the Photoelectric Effect and Line Spectra. reprods. ISBN 1-4042-0334-6. LC 2004013652.
ea vol: 48p. (The Library of Physics Series). diags. illus. photos. bibliog. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Rosen. 2005. PLB $25.25.

Gr 7 Up–Sonneborn covers gravitational force, electromagnetic force, electromagnetism at work, and strong and weak forces. The writing is clear and easy to read. A final chapter discusses the unification of forces. Viegas begins by explaining kinetic and potential energy and the history of their discoveries. Mechanical energy, momentum, and the laws of energy are also presented. Willett introduces readers to the nature of light and of the atom. The ultraviolet catastrophe, the photoelectric effect, and line spectra are also addressed. These titles provide basic introductions to their respective topics and are especially useful for reluctant readers or those new to the topics. The layouts are open and appealing and include well-captioned photographs and simple diagrams.–Maren Ostergard, Bellevue Regional Library, WA

STEWART, Gail B. Catastrophe in Southern Asia: The Tsunami of 2004. 112p. (Overview Series). diags. maps. photos. bibliog. further reading. index. notes. Web sites. CIP. Gale/Lucent. 2005. PLB $28.70. ISBN 1-59018-831-4. LC 2005006036.

Gr 5-8–Although several recent books on tsunamis include coverage of the December 2004 Indian Ocean disaster, this entire book focuses on it. Stewart includes accounts of the event itself and images of destruction, following up with the causes of tsunamis, inadequate warning systems, dealing with the casualties, continuing risks for survivors, response efforts, and rebuilding of the stricken areas. The book's real strength comes in its level of detail, as the author goes well beyond the obvious in exploring issues lacking or glossed over in most other accounts. For example, she discusses the need for special religious accommodations to allow for mass burials and cremations necessary for dealing with the number of dead and follows that with the effect on survivors' need to say good-bye to their loved ones through funerals and other ceremonies. Stewart also includes information on many survivors' psychological problems, such as fear of ghosts; the reasons for indigenous people's and animals' success in escaping the tsunami; the role of tourists in reporting the event immediately; and the effects of civil war in Sri Lanka and Indonesia on relief efforts. Compelling writing is enhanced with clear, informative, and often dramatic black-and-white photos. Well documented and indexed, this title is the best of the recent crop of tsunami books.–Jeffrey A. French, Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, Willowick, OH

STEWART, Gail B. The French Revolution. 48p. (People at the Center of Series). map. reprods. chron. further reading. index. Web sites. CIP. Gale/Blackbirch. 2005. PLB $23.70. ISBN 1-56711-919-0. LC 2005001875.

Gr 7-10–Stewart chronicles the events of the French Revolution through short biographies of 15 individuals prominent in that struggle. Each person garners a full-page color portrait, and there are many additional reproductions. The encyclopedia-type entries are basic but limited; Stewart fails to make use of the abundance of intriguing, insightful quotes by and about these individuals, and aside from birth and death dates and education, covers only material pertaining to the Revolution. The map doesn't show any French cities or regions (not even Paris!); there is no glossary; and accent marks on names are omitted. There are also several errors. Due to the narrow focus, this title cannot replace standard biographies or historical studies. Sean Connolly's The French Revolution (Heinemann Library, 2003) references many of the people highlighted here and is more thorough.–Ann W. Moore, Schenectady County Public Library, NY

SULLIVAN, George. Journalists at Risk: Reporting America's Wars. 128p. (People's History Series). photos. reprods. bibliog. further reading. index. notes. Web sites. CIP. 21st Century Bks. 2005. PLB $26.60. ISBN 0-7613-2745-2. LC 2003015855.

Gr 6-9–A thorough history of the role that the press plays in wartime, centering mostly on Pearl Harbor, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, and the current war on terrorism. Sullivan begins with an overview of how reporters have actually covered battles, such as the handwritten reports from the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812, which were carried by hand or on horseback. Most of the book, however, deals with World War II and after. Sepia photos of Edward R. Murrow, Ernie Pyle, Marguerite Higgins, and others are scattered throughout. A chapter on Iraq describes the role of embedded journalists. Twenty-three reporters, including several women, are profiled, with a look at their careers and comments from them. An excellent, up-to-date resource.–Linda Beck, Indian Valley Public Library, Telford, PA

SUMMERS, Barbara, ed. Open the Unusual Door: True Life Stories of Challenge, Adventure, and Success by Black Americans. illus. by Gina Triplett. 206p. CIP. Houghton/Graphia. 2005. pap. $7.99. ISBN 0-618-58531-1. LC 2004028230.

Gr 7 Up–A wonderful cross section of excerpts from published autobiographies. The 16 stories tell of challenges met and opportunities recognized and realized. Colin Powell's recollection of his introduction to the military life at City College in New York City stands alongside Russell Simmons's retelling of the turning point in his life when, at 16 years of age, he shot at and missed a fellow drug dealer. Peter Westbrook, the world-champion fencer, talks about his Japanese-immigrant mother bribing him to take fencing lessons to keep him off the Newark streets. Whoopi Goldberg discusses being on welfare and using that experience as a stepping-stone to bigger and better things. Each selection deals with that point in the life of the subject when the opportunity to make a life change offered itself. This little gem of a book should be a first purchase for public and school libraries.–Carol Jones Collins, Columbia High School, Maplewood, NJ

TAMBLYN, Amber. Free Stallion: Poems. 79p. CIP. S & S. 2005. Tr $14.95. ISBN 1-4169-0259-7. LC 2004029152.

Gr 10 Up–Tamblyn is an emerging writer with passion and commitment. Free Stallion is a compilation of poetry that amounts to a portrait of the artist as a teenager, from the very early years through post adolescence. Many of the selections are appropriately self-absorbed but move beyond journalistic catharsis to real insight and stunning language for one so young. In "Dig," Tamblyn wants to distance herself with language that examines and classifies: "Hollywood's got a face./Trophy wives with stitched-up sideburns/look like 3rd degree burn victims." Gutsy, she speaks frankly of sexuality. In "Vibration" she explores the limits of enjambment: "Drop your weapons–/pick up my hip attachment./Screw it,/on./I'm suing for a-sexual harassment." In "Moths" she writes with the same desire to push language a little further off-kilter: "…I am a derelict without furniture or life signs,/painting your posture from distance that/can fit inside the palm of your land." And she has economical humor: "I want to sneak out/in the night,/do stupid things with nature/in the dark,/regret them/in the light." Public libraries will want this book for the permission the writing gives to use language in the expression of strong emotion, and as a unique record of one artist's early promise of crafting an art for life or vice versa.–Teresa Pfeifer, Alfred Zanetti Montessori Magnet School, Springfield, MA

TANAKA, Shelley. Mummies: The Newest, Coolest, and Creepiest from around the World. 48p. maps. photos. reprods. bibliog. chron. further reading. glossary. index. CIP. Abrams. Dec. 2005. RTE $16.95. ISBN 0-8109-5797-3. LC 2005000984.

Gr 3-7–Richly colored photographs, many of them large and more than a little grisly, characterize this wide-ranging look at an always-popular topic. After a brief discussion of mummification and the sorts of places in which mummified bodies have been found, Tanaka organizes her text by continent. Simple outlined and colored maps display the countries featured, supplementing the author's descriptions of the local conditions–from the frozen heights of the Andes to the Arctic or near-Arctic steppes to the harsh Egyptian and Chinese deserts. The main text for each mummy or cache of mummies is generally a few paragraphs, often supported by a shorter text, both of which are illustrated by photographs or reproductions. The account of the medieval graveyard at Zeleniy Yar in Siberia, for example, is accompanied by a sidebar about migratory invaders such as the Scythians from central Asia. Tanaka surveys the varying ways in which people prepared the bodies of their loved ones for survival and how scientists have dealt with them after discovery. She includes the 18th-century, skinless mummies that artist Honoré Fragonard preserved using wax and alcohol, and the more recent examples of plastinated bodies and the publicly displayed remains of Mao Zedong and Vladimir Lenin. A short bibliography and an extensive index are included. An impressive addition to shelves that can always use another title.–Coop Renner, Hillside Elementary, El Paso, TX

TELGEN, Diane. Brown v. Board of Education. 246p. (Defining Moments Series). photos. reprods. bibliog. chron. further reading. glossary. index. notes. Web sites. CIP. Omnigraphics. 2005. PLB $38. ISBN 0-7808-0775-8. LC 2005008887.

Gr 8 Up–There are many books that cover this landmark decision but several interesting points set this one apart from the crowd. It opens with an "Important People, Places, and Terms" section and a detailed chronology that takes readers from an 1849 school-segregation case to the 2003 University of Michigan rulings on student diversity. The book includes a narrative overview, biographies of individuals involved, and primary sources. This latter, impressive section gives this treatment of Brown v. Board of Education depth and promotes a greater empathy from readers. Numerous sidebars provide background information such as describing how the civil court system works or the founding of the NAACP. Archival photos and shaded boxes help to break up the more tedious legal details of the text. Telgen has done a fine job of making this topic accessible to and engaging for today's students. Look no further to find an all-in-one source for class assignments.–Lori Matthews, Loyola School, New York City

TENNYSON, Alfred Lord. The Lady of Shalott. illus. by Geneviève Côté. unpaged. (Visions in Poetry Series). CIP. Kids Can/KCP Poetry. 2005. Tr $16.95. ISBN 1-55337-874-1. LC C2004-907371-0.

Gr 7 Up–This lyrical poem, written nearly 200 years ago, has been given new life through Côté's intelligent artistry. Tennyson's strict stanzas move back and forth in dialogue with the playful, stylized, mixed-media illustrations. The poem's symbolism has been interpreted variously as a work about the isolation of the artist, the inevitability of death, and unrequited love. The art offers room for readers to wander and wonder within the realm of suggestion. Côté's illustrations allow the poem to speak its full range; however, the theme of love is strongly suggested by the depiction of a couple on the opening page glancing over the water to the island where the Lady of Shalott resides alone. Admirably, the art does not depict the Lady of Shalott as a tragic figure; after she declares that she is '"half sick of shadows,"' she takes flight from the world of mirrored images as if a butterfly from a chrysalis. The artist's reapers are sinister and humorous; their dark glasses situate them in the modern era. There are industrialized urban centers, bridges, and automobiles. Fans will be born of both Tennyson and Côté. Begin the enchantment early: introduce this volume to students, middle school and up.–Teresa Pfeifer, Alfred Zanetti Montessori Magnet School, Springfield, MA

TORRES, John Albert. Disaster in the Indian Ocean, Tsunami 2004. 48p. (Monumental Milestones Series). diags. map. photos. chron. further reading. glossary. index. notes. CIP. Mitchell Lane. 2005. PLB $19.95. ISBN 1-58415-344-X. LC 2005004245.

Gr 5-8–The strength of this work is the inclusion of survivors' stories based on personal interviews during the author's visit to Indonesia in January 2005. The accounts include a British girl who recognized the coming tsunami from her studies and warned her family; an Indonesian woman who lost her baby; a vacationing nurse who helped secure vaccinations and other medical supplies to show her appreciation for the people who saved her son from the water; and a woman who lost a total of 40 relatives, including 4 of her 6 children and her husband. "FYInfo" pages explain the factual side of the tsunami, U.S.-Muslim relations, the threat posed by the area's separatist movements, the delivery of water purifiers, and the risk of tsunamis in the United States. Color photos and graphics are often small. Still, the book excels for its depiction of the personal impact of the destruction, supplementing Gail B. Stewart's Catastrophe in Southern Asia: The Tsunami of 2004 (Gale, 2005), which is more thorough but less personal.–Jeffrey A. French, Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, Willowick, OH

WHITING, Jim. Ernest Hemingway. 48p. (Classic Storytellers Series). photos. reprods. chron. further reading. glossary. index. notes. Web sites. CIP. Mitchell Lane. 2005. PLB $19.95. ISBN 1-58415-376-8. LC 2004030261.

Gr 6-8–A brief, accessible introduction to this classic writer. Whiting balances the extremes in Hemingway's life, from his literary successes to his risky stunts, drinking, and bullying. Since his life reads like a story, even those who aren't familiar with his works will be drawn into this account. The book's design is attractive, with good use of color and photos. Full-page sidebars and a time line are included.–Kristen Oravec, Cuyahoga County Public Library, Strongsville, OH

WHITING, Jim. The Life and Times of Nero. diag. ISBN 1-58415-349-0. LC 2004024603.
––––. The Life and Times of Rameses the Great. ISBN 1-58415-341-5. LC 2004024605.
ea vol: 48p. (Biography from Ancient Civilizations Series). map. photos. reprods. bibliog. chron. further reading. glossary. index. notes. Web sites. CIP. Mitchell Lane. 2005. PLB $19.95.

Gr 5-8–Brief biographies of two notable rulers from antiquity. In Nero's case, the information is drawn from existing, if biased, works from the period. On the other hand, what we know about Rameses is almost entirely reconstructed from surviving Egyptian wall carvings and paintings, with their undeniably propagandist purposes. In both books, Whiting aims to strike a balance, pointing out both successes and failures and strengths and weaknesses. The stability of Nero's reign during the years he was most influenced by older advisers and his decisive actions during the great fire of Rome lie alongside his apparent flaws: his desire to take part in artistic and athletic competitions and his penchant for having inconvenient people murdered. Rameses is significantly more laudatory, but also notes a prominent example of "spinning" an event: his involvement in the Battle of Kadesh, officially recorded as a great victory, cannot have been so, as it obviously left his opponents in control of important territory. The scene-setting is a little strained: a recounting of Howard Carter's search for and discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb has little enough to do with Rameses, except for the link Whiting uses–the fame of their mummies. The author clearly knows how to use hooks to keep readers involved–bloody gladiatorial games, potentially dangerous chariot races, the "mummy's curse"–and his breezy writing style is generally appealing. His modern terminology can seem silly at times; by the same token, his quotations from other writers might have been more judiciously selected. Color photographs are generally clear and attractive, though often small. These are not essential purchases, but they are more than acceptable for libraries needing to expand their biography collections.–Coop Renner, Hillside Elementary, El Paso, TX

WILLIAMS, Marcia. Hooray for Inventors! illus. by author. 37p. index. CIP. Candlewick. 2005. RTE $16.99. ISBN 0-7636-2760-7. LC 2005046915.

Gr 3-6–This oversize, entertaining book provides the stories behind some of the world's greater and lesser inventions. Beginning with a dedication to Leonardo da Vinci, it includes Johannes Gutenberg and the printing press; James Watt and the steam condenser; the Wright brothers; Guglielmo Marconi and the radio; and John Logie Baird and the television. In addition, there are chapters on useful inventions like toilet paper and postage stamps as well as one on the women responsible for coffee filters, teddy bears, and windshield wipers. Another chapter covers the author's favorite inventions, such as hula hoops, Legos, pencils, and the sandwich. Using a comic-book format, Williams reveals how the inventors got their ideas and sponsors as well as their obstacles and failed attempts. Readers may find some of the information surprising; for instance, in 2002 the U.S. Congress proclaimed Antonio Meucci the true inventor of the telephone. Williams also emphasizes how many inventions build on earlier ones. "Without the radio, no TV. Without the TV, no video. Without the video, no DVD." The pen-and-ink and watercolor cartoons are crammed full of clever and humorous details. Animals appear on the borders, offering droll asides and assorted trivia. While the overall effect is appealing, the pages are already quite busy without them. Still, children will enjoy the format and learn some valuable lessons about the history and spirit of invention.–Barbara Auerbach, New York City Public Schools

WINKLER, Kathleen. Bullying: How to Deal with Taunting, Teasing, and Tormenting. 104p. (Issues in Focus Today Series). photos. further reading. glossary. index. notes. Web sites. CIP. Enslow. 2005. Tr $31.93. ISBN 0-7660-2355-9. LC 2004026783.

Gr 6-10–Winkler examines the impact of bullying on both the victim and the victimizer. In straightforward and clear language, she uses conversations with teens, quotes from magazine and newspaper articles, interviews with professional therapists and school officials, plus excerpts from titles such as Rachel Simmons's Odd Girl Out: The Hidden Culture of Aggression in Girls (Harcourt, 2002) to provide a readable discussion of what bullying is, why bullies do what they do, and why victims "take it." The author devotes a separate chapter to the subject of girls who bully, a situation that researchers call "relational aggression," and the resulting psychological damage that is not so easy to see. Posed, color photographs illustrate various scenarios, and multiple sidebars provide additional information. This is a useful resource, and even libraries that already own Elaine Slavens's Bullying: Deal with It Before Push Comes to Shove (Lorimer, 2003) or Trevor Romain's Bullies Are a Pain in the Brain (Free Spirit, 1997) will want to include it as it addresses an older audience.–Jennifer Ralston, Harford County Public Library, Belcamp, MD

YORINKS, Adrienne. Quilt of States: Piecing Together America. ed. & comp. by Jeanette Larson. illus. by author. 122p. index. CIP. National Geographic. 2005. Tr $19.95. ISBN 0-7922-7286-2; PLB $29.90. ISBN 0-7922-7285-4. LC 2004017796.

Gr 3-8–The United States is stitched together chronologically in this stunning book that features a quilted spread for each state. Yorinks enlisted a librarian from each state to contribute a short entry to point up a few significant facts that add to the tapestry of the emerging nation. Readers will learn, for example, that in 1732, James Oglethorpe wanted to establish a refuge for debtors and a slave-free state, but despite his best intentions, Georgia soon began using slave labor. Also, "President Abraham Lincoln wanted Nevada to become a state for two reasons–most residents favored the Union and opposed slavery, and Nevada's silver could help pay for war expenses." "A Historical Introduction" and "A Note from the Author/Illustrator" explain the artist's process in selecting contributors to the book and in choosing appropriate fabrics for each state. An appendix of "State Facts" includes the date each entered the Union along with state symbols, a fun fact, and its claim to fame. The quilted representations are not only artistically intricate and beautiful, but also informative. A handsome book to linger over and learn from.–Lee Bock, Glenbrook Elementary School, Pulaski, WI