Grades 5 & Up

Gr 5-9–The book’s creators add their talents to Poe’s to create a brief biography that captures not only the facts of the poet’s troubled life, but also the haunting magic of his words. Each portion of the straightforward, chronological account is followed by a selection that seems a meta-commentary on the events just told–for example, the discussion of Poe’s attending an English boarding school as a young orphan is paired with, “In spring of youth it was my lot/To haunt of the wide world a spot/The which I could not love the less–/So lovely was the loneliness....” The tone set by the bleak facts and the eerie words is perfectly underscored by Kelley’s somber paintings and Mucci’s atmospheric photographs. Readers who want a more extensive biography should consult Milton Meltzer’s masterful Edgar Allan Poe (21st Century Bks, 2003), but this book is a wonderful introduction to a brief, but influential, life.–Kathleen Whalin, York Public Library, ME

Gr 5 Up–Judith Goldhaber sets 100 stories from Aesop, many familiar and others less known, into sonnet form with mixed results. Some flow easily for reading aloud, some are awkward in the rhythm and rhyme scheme, a few are quite elegant, and many incorporate contemporary colloquial terms for a humorous tone. The Ass implores the Mule, “'Brother! Please help me with this heavy weight.’/'Forget it,’ said the Mule, 'your bro I ain’t.’” In contrast, a majestic tone frames the encounter between Zeus and a grieving Lark. As in many Aesop renderings, some tales end with a pointed lesson, and others are more subtle or understated in conveying the moral. Gerson Goldhaber’s simple colorful paintings are naive, fresh, and often funny. The language and sonnet construct will sometimes elude children, but the compendium is substantial and attractive and may be useful in some literature classes and in library collections where folk materials are of interest.–Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 4-6–A book to inspire youngsters to start making fun creations and artworks using standard art supplies, recycled household items, and natural objects. The author presents new variations of popular and nostalgic activities using egg cartons, leaves, rocks, and crayons, as well as other common materials. Youngsters can take delight in creating birdhouses, tie-dyed socks, personalized wrapping paper, and party favors. Each of the activities is presented on one page with simple step-by-step instructions; illustrations are decorative rather than informative. These activities were compiled from the author’s titles in the “52 Decks” series (Chronicle), so libraries that have those books might consider this one an additional purchase.–Caroline Geck, Kean University, Union, NJ

Gr 5-9–“Dedicated to the children of the 2004 tsunami, those who survived and those who did not,” this compelling collection of short stories sweeps its way into readers’ hearts. A foreword by Michael Morpurgo sets the stage; out of feelings of guilt and powerlessness, he explains, Goyal inspired 16 bestselling UK authors to write stories that were based on the experiences of children who survived. His introduction provides background information about the unfathomable strength and effect of the wave and the countries affected: India, Somalia, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Thailand. While each story reveals what people might truly have felt during those fateful moments, taken together they are also lessons for life--on days less dramatic. “Fire Stones” by Eoin Colfer is particularly noteworthy.–Alexa Sandmann, Kent State University, OH

Gr 9 Up–This is a wonderful primer for someone new to the genre or who is starting a graphic-novel collection. Gravett does an excellent job of acknowledging that there are things to “hate” about comics and he confronts them head on, with explanations and suggestions for future reading. Next he offers a “classics” list of 30 of his favorite titles. Most of them are well known and are considered must-haves in any collection, such as Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons’s Watchmen (DC Comics, 1995), Art Spiegelman’s Maus (Knopf, 1993), and Neil Gaiman’s “The Sandman” series (DC Comics). The rest of the book examines those titles and others like them, showing sample pages with directions on how to read them and pointing out themes, keywords, and special features. This oversize volume has glossy, full-color pages and an easy-to-read text. Some of the sexier examples of graphic novels are included, such as Robert Crumb’s My Troubles with Women (Last Gasp, 1991). A useful, informative book for anyone who wants to become better versed in the genre.–Melissa T. Jenvey, New York Public Library

Gr 8 Up–An adaptation of the author’s adult book with the same title (Dell, 2002). The first part of the book gives an overview of Haney’s military career and his association with the force and describes the red tape and planning that was required of those who wished to create a new, secret military unit that officially did not exist. It also includes a description of the physical challenges required of those who were chosen to participate in what was a preliminary round of qualification tests. Those who were successful in all the tests were then eligible to participate in the actual selection process. The second half of the text shows the sometimes brutal challenges the successful candidates were required to complete and details some of the actual training sessions. The narration concludes with the unit being sent on a “dry run” scenario in order to practice newly acquired skills. Black-and-white photos and documents are included in a centerfold. The reading level is not extremely high, but the subject is more likely to be of interest to older readers. This is an excellent choice for students with military interests.–Eldon Younce, Harper Elementary School, KS

Gr 4-7–This title opens with an introduction to science-fair projects, followed by sections devoted to project ideas in biology, physical science, and chemistry. Most of the experiments call for common household items. The simple, easy-to-follow directions are geared toward beginners. The layout is open, colorful, and appealing, with photographs of students and materials on every spread and boxed areas that highlight specific topics or ideas. Readers are encouraged to follow safety procedures, including wearing closed-toe shoes and goggles when necessary. The conversational text discusses how to pick a topic and offers a hands-on approach to planning the project, including an eight-week schedule checklist. Libraries would be well served by this title.–Maren Ostergard, Bellevue Regional Library, WA

Gr 4-8–Decades after his death, Hughes remains an incredibly popular literary figure and the subject of any number of biographies, including one by Laurie F. Leach (Greenwood, 2004) and another by Jack Rummel (Chelsea House, 2005). This treatment adds nothing new but does emphasize his peripatetic lifestyle and his travels throughout the world. The writing is clear. The cover is quite attractive, showing a portrait of a young Hughes, and the illustrations and maps are informative. The text is enhanced with information boxes that further explain topics introduced in the text. As an introductory text, this biography serves its purpose and should make a good addition to any collection. Still, it fails to capture the real importance of Hughes as a playwright, poet, and novelist, and leaves out many of his significant relationships and his activism.–Carol Jones Collins, Columbia High School, Maplewood, NJ

Gr 9 Up–This admirable offering includes a lively discussion of the history of the movement, the personalities involved, and the strategies used to finally obtain the vote. It opens with a list of “Important People, Places and Terms” and a chronology with page references, followed by a narrative overview, biographical sketches, and primary documents. There are some exceptional inclusions such as excerpts from Francis Parkman’s booklet Some of the Reasons against Woman Suffrage and Rose Winslow’s notes, spirited out of prison during her 1917 hunger strike. A feature that sets this book apart is a chapter on “The Legacy of Women’s Suffrage,” which examines the effects of the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment on society as a whole and particularly on women’s rights and the women’s liberation movement of the 1960s and 1970s. This material, however, has been expertly covered over the last several years with titles such as Elizabeth Frost-Knappman and Kathryn Cullen DuPont’s Women’s Suffrage in America (Facts On File, 2005), Doris Weatherford’s A History of the American Suffragist Movement (ABC-CLIO, 1998), and, for reference collections, Robert Cooney’s Winning the Vote: The Triumph of the American Woman Suffrage Movement (American Graphic, 2005).–Joanne K. Cecere, Monroe-Woodbury High School, Central Valley, NY

Gr 5-8–Stunning archival photographs from the early 20th century help tell the inspiring story of the African-American polar explorer. They document the excursions of Robert E. Peary and include some of the first images captured of the Inuit people and of the North Pole. Henson was hired as Peary’s manservant, though proved himself a loyal friend and worthy trailblazer in the fierce, frozen conditions at the top of the world. Henson’s story is told in informative, descriptive prose based on research from ample resources. Surviving family members help personalize this ennobling biography of a deserving innovator and the only person to be awarded National Geographic Society’s Hubbard Medal posthumously. The story demonstrates that fortitude, strength, and loyalty are not determined by the color of one’s skin, but “by the determination of one’s spirit.”–Jodi Kearns, University of Akron, OH

Gr 5-8–Each book follows a chronological arrangement, introducing one person per page with a black-and-white photo or reproduction. No criteria for inclusion are given. Native Americans begins with Dekanawida (c. 1550-c. 1600), founder of the Iroquois Confederacy, and ends with Sherman Alexie, poet and writer. Hispanic Americans begins with Juan Ponce de León and includes Xavier Cugat, Carmen Miranda, and Geraldo Rivera. Each article lists pertinent birth information and details the specific event(s) that “changed American history”; some of them seem a bit of a stretch. Entries are succinct; however, a few illustrations are confusing. In Native American, the biographical sketch of Cochise is illustrated with a photo of his son; Datsolalee, with a picture of a willow basket; and Handsome Lake, with a photo of Red Jacket, a chief who opposed him. While in some of these cases the illustration has something to do with the actual article rather than specifically with the person being detailed, this may cause some confusion for readers.–G. Alyssa Parkinson, Highland Township Library, MI

Gr 5-9–Keable opens with a discussion of the types of props used in the book, most of which are readily available in the home. Next comes an overview and history of the different types of magic with mention of the most famous practitioners. Reproductions of playbills, archival photographs, and newspaper articles enhance the historical information. The second half of the book, a “how to” section, offers clear, step-by-step explanations and close-up photos depicting young adults demonstrating 40 tricks. “Secret view” photos show what the audience can’t see. The author encourages lots of practice and offers extra tips on the presentation or specifics on props for each trick in highlighted asides. A good choice for beginning magicians.–Cynde Suite, Bartow County Library System, Adairsville, GA

Gr 3-8–What plants need, how to handle them, and zoning and climate are all covered in this attractive book. Projects include seeding and starting greenhouses, garden bowls, a vegetable hanging basket, a Father’s Day fountain, butterfly gardens, salad bowls, amaryllis pots, Halloween hats, succulent gardens, and more. Brief background information is provided for some projects, such as what specific plants attract butterflies, the color wheel, and annuals for planters. “Cool Facts,” such as why marigolds are planted with basil and tomatoes and information on worms and the Venus flytrap, are included. Each project lists materials needed and gives step-by-step directions accompanied by a few photos. Adult help will be needed in some cases, and the use of safety gloves and goggles is mentioned where appropriate. Recommended supplies are easily obtainable from garden centers and through online purchasing. The author brings both enthusiasm and expertise to this book. The few typos found shouldn’t cause too much confusion. There is no index. Color photos of child models, varied typeface, and creative kid-friendly pages all add up to a fine horticultural treat that will thrive in most collections.–Augusta R. Malvagno, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 5-7–Krull fulfills the promise of the outstanding previous volume in this series, Leonardo da Vinci (Viking, 2005) with this follow-up. Writing in a style aptly described in the blurb as “juicily anecdotal” (a tone reflected in Kulikov’s witty illustrations), she offers a multifaceted portrait of a genius who was “both brilliant and several slices short of a loaf,” capable of revolutionary insights into science but also rude, jealous, and secretive. Along with presenting lucid, animated descriptions of Newton’s major achievements, from calculus and the laws of motion to the reflecting telescope (a “cool new toy” that earned him instant election to the Royal Society), the author carefully takes on such speculative topics as his religious beliefs, his homosexuality, and the possibility that his emotional imbalance was a result of poisoning caused by his obsessive alchemical experiments. Though Krull gives Newton more credit than he probably deserves for validating the scientific method, in general her assessment of his stellar position in the history of science is right on target.–John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 4-7–The physical and behavioral qualities of these creatures are examined along with their habitats, natural histories, and struggles for survival. Each animal’s life is discussed from birth and growth to maturity and death. Statistics and information are provided on the challenges they face as humankind’s incursion into their living spaces and resources becomes more pronounced. Lockwood’s dynamic and engaging style and intriguing insight in Baboons make that book shine. All of the books include “Would You Believe?” boxes and clear, bright photographs, many of them close-ups. However, a number in Tigers are sensational or cute rather than informative. In addition, the population map in each volume is somewhat difficult to read. Nonetheless, these titles will give children solid information for reports.–Nancy Call, Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Aptos, CA

Gr 4-6–This solid, informative biography begins with the brothers’ childhoods and acquaints readers with the main facts of their lives, putting them in a historical context, e.g., the Napoleonic wars. The presentation is good, with large type, clear section and chapter headings, good chronological organization, and full-color reproductions and photographs. The author emphasizes the extent of the Grimms’ scholarly research and includes some interesting facts such as that the fur slipper in the French version of “Cinderella” was changed to glass in the German version. A simple map shows the towns where the brothers went to obtain stories both from earlier writings and from firsthand sources. The two Web sites provide readings of some of the tales, as well as some fun, interactive activities. For libraries that can use more than one biography on the storytellers, this is worth purchasing. Otherwise, stick with Donald R. Hettinga’s The Brothers Grimm (Clarion, 2001), which is more fun to read and has more complete information.–Kirsten Cutler, Sonoma Library, CA

Gr 7 Up–This book opens with an explanation of Democritus’s concept of the atom (465 B.C.). Next, three full-color photo-essays cover the scientists connected to the study of the elements throughout history and the “Anatomy of an Atom,” radiation, and the elements found in the human body and around the home. The latter half of the volume is devoted to the individual elements from hydrogen to ununquadium, in order of their atomic number. For each, the individuals associated with its discovery, the date of discovery, the origin of the name, atomic weight, melting point, and a photograph, when applicable, are provided. A few paragraphs describing the elements’ uses are also included. Captioned black-and-white and color photographs and illustrations break up the text, and boxed areas highlight specific topics or individuals, such as Marie and Pierre Curie. The future of the periodic table and the quest to discover new elements are mentioned throughout. A useful overview.–Maren Ostergard, Bellevue Regional Library, WA

Gr 3-6–Familiar elements of a child’s world are explored in these sensitive, free-form verses. The 24 original poems capture an imaginative view of commonplace things and happenings, such as “Wherever you are/is somewhere sour or sweet–/a lemon heaven/full of juice to squeeze.” The emergence of spring crocuses, a sandy beach, a honeysuckle vine, a full moon, swinging high on a swing, and riding in the backseat of a car take on new dimensions as the poet’s imagination enlarges the ordinary, creating new visions and possibilities. Artistic, full-page color photos add to the attractiveness of the book.–Sally R. Dow, Ossining Public Library, NY

Gr 10 Up–Following an essay by Galen, an ancient Greek physician, the first two sections of this book discuss the means developed to look inside the human body to diagnose illness and advance medical science. The selections focus on the stethoscope, X-rays, MRI technology, and PET scans. In the third section, issues in medical imaging are explored, such as whether mammography is a reliable form of diagnosis, whether body scans are worth the radiation risks, and the impact of rising costs on the industry. The book concludes with a discussion of the future of these technologies and medicine. The style and vocabulary of the essays are difficult. Serious researchers such as advanced-placement science students will find this title useful and informative, and the pro/con section will prove particularly helpful for debates and persuasive papers.–Lynn Evarts, Sauk Prairie High School, Prairie du Sac, WI

Gr 5 Up–An unusually varied and useful collection of 44 folktales ranging from legends involving the ethical dilemmas of King Solomon to stories of the Prophet Elijah to wisdom tales of ancient rabbis to universal stories given a Jewish slant and selections from near-modern times. The inspiration for Oberman’s retellings stems from many cultures and continents, yet his direct, relatively unadorned language manages to convey the time and atmosphere of each setting. Sometimes reverent, sometimes jocular, each of the stories has something to teach. Oberman appends explanatory notes and source information to each folktale. Penninah Schram, who completed the editing after Oberman’s death, has augmented the commentaries. Scholars will appreciate the notes indicating folkloric motifs and variants as well as the full bibliography. This is a gold mine for storytellers and educators alike.–Miriam Lang Budin, Chappaqua Public Library, NY

Gr 6-10–The name Attila the Hun conjures up an image of a savage, ruthless, and bloodthirsty man. In this biography, readers will learn that this impression may not be completely true. Although Attila experienced a harsh childhood filled with training as a warrior, he also learned Greek and Latin as a hostage in Ravenna at the age of 11 or 12. He learned, as well, about the weaknesses of Roman society, which benefited him later. After the death of his brother, in A.D. 445 Attila became the sole leader of the Huns and conquered most of Europe. He attempted to conquer the Western Roman Empire, but failed. However, he is seen as instrumental in its eventual fall. The author notes that some modern Hungarians consider Attila a hero and an enlightened leader. Sidebars provide additional interesting information. Average-quality, captioned black-and-white reproductions, photographs, and maps are included. Quotes from both primary and secondary sources and a balanced approach make this a valuable resource.–Lana Miles, Duchesne Academy, Houston, TX

Gr 6 Up–Through letters and recollections, Oppenheim relates the story of a group of young people who were interned during World War II. Breed had come to know many Japanese Americans through her work as the children’s librarian at the San Diego Public Library. When the young people were sent to camps in 1942, she began sending letters and care packages of books, candy, and other treats to “her children.” She also wrote articles for Library Journal and The Horn Book that articulated their plight. In return, the recipients expressed their gratitude in letters. While their lives were marked by deprivation and uncertainty, their letters reveal an unquenchable optimism. Their story, along with that of Miss Breed, is both remarkable and inspiring, and Oppenheim has done a fine job of assembling these poignant eyewitness accounts. Unfortunately, she muddles her assessment, ladling on a variety of unnecessary details and her own anecdotal experiences. There’s a lack of clarity and focus, and though this is a welcome addition to this topic, its appeal will be limited to those familiar with it. Readers seeking a concise, overall perspective would fare better with Michael L. Cooper’s Fighting for Honor: Japanese Americans and World War II (2000) and Remembering Manzanar: Life In a Japanese Relocation Camp (2002, both Clarion).–Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA

Gr 5 Up–Philip has retold four fairy tales and three short parables attributed to Rabbi Nahman of Bratslav, a noted Hasidic Jewish scholar and teacher in the early 19th century. The stories, most of which contain elements of universal fairy tales, were told to his disciples, and most have references to the coming of the messiah and the redemption of the world. Stylized gouache paintings range in size from smaller vignettes to full page. The larger illustrations have a layered look that appears to result from the use of color upon color combined with areas of stamped design. Contrasting colors and floating or juxtaposed segments evoke images of Chagall paintings. Notes on each tale cover its origin, allegorical representations, and variations in detail. More compelling versions of two of these tales can be found in Howard Schwartz’s Elijah’s Violin and Other Jewish Fairy Tales (Oxford Univ., 1994) and in Uri Shulevitz’s The Treasure (Farrar, 1979). Synagogue and Jewish day school libraries may want to have Philip’s collection on hand.–Susan Scheps, Shaker Heights Public Library, OH

Gr 7 Up–This unique “double-sided flip book” contains the graphic novel The Resonator on one side and a description of the technical construction of it on the other side. The Resonator itself is definitely worth the price of the book. It begins with an intriguing concept–in the future, humans lose the ability to sleep. It then follows the story of Bronsen, a man who uses an illegal resonator (a highly evolved cat) to help him sleep (and dream) for the first time as an adult. Their minds connect in an unusual way, and this connection has repercussions that will have an impact on humanity as a whole. In “The Making of a Graphic Novel,” Rollins takes readers through every step of the process and explains his fictional and real-life inspirations for the story. Readers also learn about the inspirations for his visual designs, which included Sears catalog models from the 1940s, the Kowloon Walled City near Hong Kong, and even a Victorian train station. Rollins provides amazingly detailed information about the supplies he uses for penciling, lettering, and inking his work. This is a valuable book for readers who love graphic novels, and even more valuable for tomorrow’s graphic novelists.–Andrea Lipinski, New York Public Library

Gr 6 Up–The first title covers normal processes, such as REM sleep, as well as developmental disorders and other abnormalities, such as snoring, sleepwalking, and night terrors. Different perspectives about the meaning of dreams are also included, ranging from the theories of Freud and Jung to current research. Color photos, numerous sidebars, and a variety of quotations from history and literature are included. Spinal Cord is one of the few sources on this important topic for this audience. Subjects such as the role of the central nervous system and the functioning of spinal reflexes are discussed, along with abnormalities like pain and paralysis. The chapters in both books follow a uniform format and are divided into many sections to aid comprehension. Keywords for effectively searching the Internet are also supplied. Solid additions for report writing and inquiry.–Caroline Geck, Kean University, Union, NJ

Gr 4-8–Those who are passionate about this art form and dream of becoming a professional dancer will find inspiration and sagacity on each page of this unique guide. The words of counsel proffered by the author, who was a principal dancer for the New York City Ballet and is a teacher at the School of American Ballet, are engaging, imaginative, and right on target. Whether advising a dancer to strike like a cobra in order to move with speed, aim, and purpose or to step lightly “like a mother bird landing on her eggs,” the imagery captures the point being made. Practical tips such as essentials that need to be in your bag and behavioral advice such as being grateful for criticism are nicely woven into the book. The photographs, mainly of female dancers, are clear and colorful. These words of wisdom will keep dancers on their toes and stretching their minds and hearts.–Carol Schene, Taunton Public Schools, MA

Gr 5-10–Ten well-planned major robberies reveal the ingenuity of the criminal mind. The devious men in these fascinating accounts are no ordinary thieves. Dan Cooper parachuted from a Boeing 727 in mid flight at night with $200,000 of extorted cash. A small band of Italians spirited the world-famous portrait of Mona Lisa from the Louvre in Paris. The meticulous technique of American bank robber Willie Sutton was so well known that he was blamed for crimes committed by numerous copycats long after he had given up the business. These are just a few of the bold endeavors described in intricate detail. There are seven additional stories in the introductory chapter. Among these briefer accounts is the unusual action of a Parisian actor and civil servant who “stole” the files against his friends during the French Revolution by eating them, thus saving many condemned people from execution. Realistic dialogue and step-by-step descriptions make this work suspenseful and exciting. The subtle conclusions to be drawn from all of the stories are that few thieves go uncaught or really get to enjoy their spoils. Donald Sobol’s Encyclopedia Brown’s Book of Wacky Crimes (Random, 1984) and Encyclopedia Brown’s Strange but True Crimes (Scholastic, 1992) are both loaded with lightly told, very brief criminal adventures spiced with humorous cartoons. Anita Gustafson’s Guilty or Innocent? (Holt, 1985) describes the deeds of 10 murderers. For true, rousing adventurers, each with one or more sources listed in the bibliography, Schroeder’s compilation can’t be beat.–Ann G. Brouse, Steele Memorial Library, Elmira, NY

Gr 3-6–Large, colorful photographs enhance each text while side boxes hold interesting, complementary facts. For example, readers are informed that visitors to the Taj Mahal must remove their shoes before entering the burial chamber, in keeping with Muslim religious etiquette. There are some flaws, especially in Stonehenge. To state that “Long ago, people believed that giants and magic played a part in the structure’s creation” is speculative. Also, such sentences as “Over the years, religious fanatics, believing Stonehenge was a place for devil worship, have tried to destroy it” appear without sources to indicate where Shofner got her information. And a box in Taj Mahal states that “Mogul emperors delighted in watching convicted criminals writhe to their death from the bite of a poisonous snake....” A “Quick Facts” page in each book lists such details as the composition of the structure and how many visitors it receives per year. Nancy Stone Bernard and Caroline Malone’s Stonehenge (Oxford Univ., 2002) is equally suitable for this age group, as is Linda Tagliaferro’s Taj Mahal (Bearport, 2005), although the latter title is less detailed than Shofner’s. Acceptable where there is a need.–Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WI

Gr 8 Up–This is not just another revision of the Silversteins’ Cancer: Can It Be Stopped? (HarperCollins, 1987). It is a study of the most recent clinical trials and the newest developments and ongoing research in the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. Each chapter begins with a case study about a patient and then proceeds into the chapter topic. The use of marijuana and the debate about legalizing it for medicinal purposes is discussed, as is the use of thalidomide. Data and acronyms abound, although the statistics have to be taken at face value as there are no source notes. Black-and-white photographs, with an occasional table of facts, are included. Some photographs are very similar to those in the earlier book. An extensive glossary, a list of resources and organizations, and a good index are included. The writing is more sophisticated than in the previous edition and it’s dry, but it will interest readers who want to learn everything they can about the current medical state of cancer research, diagnosis, and treatment. Kirsten Lamb’s Cancer (Raintree, 2002) is for less-capable readers but has full-color illustrations, numerous text boxes, bulleted lists, and graphs and charts.–Marilyn Fairbanks, Azure IRC, Brockton High School, MA

Gr 5-10–Sullivan pays tribute to several of the architectural masterpieces that have enabled Americans to travel better, faster, and farther. Concentrating on bridges, tunnels, dams, and skyscrapers, he begins his overview in the 18th century with the Erie Canal and ends with construction of City Tunnel No. 3 in New York, started in 1970 and expected to be finished in 2020. Projects are grouped by period and each section is introduced with a discussion of the culture of the time and issues of interest. The author pays homage to the people who designed, built, and completed each engineering marvel, including the Transcontinental Railroad, Hoover Dam, Golden Gate Bridge, Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Arch, Cascade Tunnel, and the Sears Tower. Photographs, artist renderings, and a few highlighted facts (location, cost, size, etc.) accompany each discussion. Illustrated spreads requiring readers to hold the book vertically emphasize the size of these wonders. Students will enjoy both the pictures and Sullivan’s anecdotal accounts. The author’s excitement about these building projects and creative design is sure to be contagious. A masterful job.–Delia Carruthers, Sunset Ridge Middle School, West Jordan, UT

Gr 3-6–Szpirglas looks at several bizarre and absurd inventions and behaviors over the course of human history. Silly fads (remember pet rocks?), urban legends, hoaxes (“War of the Worlds” broadcast from 1938), strange museums, and offbeat festivals (England’s World Worm Charming Championships) are all celebrated. Puns and lively wordplay are sprinkled throughout, which adds to the book’s quirkiness. Each short entry contains enough information to pique readers’ interest. The off-the-wall humor is reinforced by cartoon illustrations that are reminiscent of 1950s comic books. Children who read this book will look at history and science with new enthusiasm and curiosity, and teachers will be able to demonstrate that history is not as boring as some may think.–Wendy Woodfill, Hennepin County Library, Minnetonka, MN

Gr 7 Up–The introduction focuses on the question posed by free-speech advocates and the government regarding the Patriot Act: how do we balance security and liberty? The first chapter discusses how the act was negotiated and how it became law. Money laundering and computer crime, and border protection and victims’ funds are highlighted as the most important provisions of the act. Following chapters raise issues related to government wiretapping, Internet surveillance, and secret searches, and discuss “snooping through library records,” government limitations on rights of immigrants, and detention of noncitizens. “The Changing Role of the FBI” defines enhanced efforts to counter terrorism since 9/11, and “The Ongoing Debate” discusses the renewal of the act and the concerns of civil-liberties activists. The organization of the text is logical, with bulleted subtopics and occasional boxed information. The material is clear and unbiased. Black-and-white captioned photos are dull, but do not distract from the text. A good book for students who need a concise overview of this complicated act and its impact on American citizens.–Pat Scales, South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities, Greenville

Gr 4 Up–This book features eye-catching views of the human body. The computer-generated, three-dimensional images were created by scanning successive horizontal slices of a specially treated human cadaver. For instance, an image of a skeleton is shown next to a skeleton with some of its muscles, which is next to a skeleton with blood vessels. Throughout the four sections, acetate overlays highlight specific systems. The images are clearly labeled and annotated. In addition, each spread has a few paragraphs of information and a “Did You Know?” box. (One of them tells why hearts are used on Valentine cards.) The text should be accessible to readers with no background. The accompanying CD allows users to examine interactive, 360-degree animations of the images. Suitable as a ready-reference source as well as for casual browsers, this informative title does a magnificent job of showing just how complicated and elaborate the human body is.–Maren Ostergard, Bellevue Regional Library, WA

Gr 6-9–This biography contains a wealth of detail not only regarding the Egyptian queen and her Roman lovers, but also about her land and times. Unfortunately, though, the book is poorly written, resulting in awkwardness, choppiness, and repetition. The two maps are inadequate and omit many crucial places discussed in the text. There are also misspellings, internal inconsistencies, and minor errors. The other biographies of Cleopatra for this audience are not without flaws. Polly Shoyer Brooks’s Cleopatra (HarperCollins, 1995) is engaging and well written but suffers from fictionalizing. Tom Streissguth’s Queen Cleopatra (Lerner, 2000) is a quick, smooth read and covers the basics, but lacks Worth’s thoroughness. Black-and-white photos and reproductions are included.–Ann W. Moore, Schenectady County Public Library, NY

Gr 10 Up–This collection of essays is organized into four sections–the origins of Islam, beliefs and practices, Islam around the world, and radical Islam and terrorism. A wide variety of viewpoints is represented, including those of Western scholars such as Karen Armstrong and Daniel Pipes and Muslim thinkers such as Mohammad al Ghazzali, Ali Abd al-Raziq, and Osama bin Laden. The essays on modern pilgrimages to Mecca and on Muslim youth in Europe are particularly interesting. Because a number of selections are excerpts from longer works, they sometimes end abruptly and do not always seem complete. This book would be most useful as a supplement to more comprehensive treatments of the religion as it is a sampling of ideas rather than a thorough analysis.–Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ