Grades 5 & Up Cont.

-- School Library Journal, 8/1/2006

Fiction Cont.

YOURGRAU, Barry. Another NASTYbook: The Curse of the Tweeties illus. by Robert DeJesus. 171p. CIP. HarperCollins/Joanna Cotler Bks 2006. Tr $11.99. ISBN 0-06-057981-1; PLB $13.89. ISBN 0-06-057982-X. LC 2005017921.

Gr 4-7–Rollo is constantly eating NuttiNutz Bars and reading his favorite manga, Su-ichi Samurai Swordboy. During a family picnic his mom is kidnapped by goblins and taken to Fairyland. Since his father and sister are “cravenly cowards,” it is up to Rollo to rescue her. He encounters mini-assassins Marv and Harv Tweetie (sugar-crazed adult twins), talking false teeth, and more. At several points the text morphs into manga, and a few of Rollo’s fights are violent. Smudges, fingerprints, and page and chapter numbers that change direction or include additional messages appear throughout. While Yourgrau’s NASTYbook (HarperCollins, 2005), a collection of anecdotes, tangents, and stories, appeals to kids who like to think out of the box, this full-length novel is a disappointment. At the high point of each of Rollo’s adventures, he awakens to find that he was only dreaming, and the ending reveals that the picnic hasn’t even happened yet. This plot device becomes old quickly, and readers will want the story to move on, which it never really does. Because of its unique format, this offering will no doubt appeal to some readers, but it’s basically an additional purchase.–Elaine Lesh Morgan, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR

Gr 3-6–This simplified retelling of the Howard Pyle classic is accessible to readers who might not be able to handle the lengthier legends. The author maintains some of the charm of the original by using extended chapter titles such as “How Arthur Performed the Miracle of the Sword and Discovered His Birthright.” A concluding chapter suggests several questions for discussion. What is missing is the beautiful, though complex, language of other retellings. Additionally, the author takes a slightly moralistic tone at times when addressing readers. Though reluctant readers may have an easier time with these stories, they might not be engaged enough to want to approach the originals later on. Librarians and teachers might want to recommend audio books or some of Margaret Hodges’s picture-book versions of the King Arthur tales (Holiday House) instead of this watered-down adaptation.–Cheri Dobbs, Detroit Country Day Middle School, Beverly Hills, MI

Gr 5-8–Gold Rush looks at how the discovery of gold and the subsequent influx of people into California brought opportunity and devastation and radically changed America’s culture, geography, and view of itself. Pony Express discusses the organization, people, and continuing legend of the short-lived mail service. Both books include some background information and general narrative, and actual experiences of people involved such as members of the Donner party and Wild Bill Hickock. Illustrations include maps, full-color reproductions and photos, and screenshots of various Web pages. Each volume has a two-page listing of recommended URLs. Although these books are readable, they do not provide a great deal of in-depth coverage or analysis, and they join a field already crowded with solid choices, such as Linda Jacobs Altman’s The California Gold Rush in American History (Enslow, 1997) and Diane Yancey’s Life on the Pony Express (Gale, 2001). Supplemental material for reports.–Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 4-7–This collection of lively tales demonstrates the broad base of individuals who make up our country and the slow accretion of incidents that create a heritage. Starting with the colony of Saint Caroline, founded by French Huguenots near what is today Jacksonville, FL, in 1565, the short tales proceed chronologically to the election of 2000. Along the way, readers move through sections entitled “Settlement and Colonies” (1565-1778), “A New Republic” (1791-1863), “Expansion and Invention” (1867-1899), “Becoming Modern” (1900-1945), and “Brave New World” (1946-2000). The tales are pulled from politics and government, social and religious life, recreation and science. Students will hear about personalities as various as John Chapman, Carrie Nation, Typhoid Mary, Babe Ruth, and Maya Lin. An excellent classroom resource, the stories are a perfect way to fill the odd three or four minutes, and the book’s organizational structure ties in well with more comprehensive titles, such as Robert D. Johnston’s The Making of America (National Geographic, 2002). The selections are cross-referenced into “Story Arcs” so that readers can follow historical threads, such as immigration or science and technology. The lively prose is matched by numerous soft color illustrations. A grand way to introduce children to the history of their country.–Ann Welton, Grant Elementary School, Tacoma, WA

Gr 3-6–With its wide margins, color illustrations on every page, and well-spaced text, this book will appeal to beginners and accomplished knitters. It discusses the four basic yarn weights, lists materials, and offers step-by-step instructions for basic stitches, making fringe, and more. An icon indicates the complexity of each project. The 12 items featured include a “Sparkly Scarf,” a “'Hot’ Halter Top,” a “Popular Poncho,” and a “'Doggy’ Turtleneck Sweater.” Back matter includes a “Quick Starts Illustrated Stitch & How-to Dictionary,” with l4 terms defined.–Augusta R. Malvagno, Queens Borough Public Library, NY

Gr 5-10–This well-written, up-to-date survey covers geography, history, constitutional development, the economy, language, religion, and current challenges. The authors provide a clear, concrete description of wealth alongside extreme poverty. There is an honest account of the government’s response to the AIDS crisis and a balanced portrayal of achievements since independence along with the considerable challenges that the country continues to face. The history is clearly and accurately told, although the story of political resistance, especially before 1960, is thin. Color photos are clear and thoughtfully placed. Sidebars help to amplify the necessarily brief text. On the downside, some of the maps are small and cramped, and there are a few typographical errors and a couple of small errors of fact. But these are mere quibbles. This is the most insightful survey on South Africa in print. Not only is the text accurate, but it also captures some of the cultural, economic, and social complexities and contradictions in a succinct and even elegant way. No matter how many reasonably up-to-date country surveys on South Africa you already own, make room for this one. Your students need it.–Sue Giffard, Ethical Culture Fieldston School, New York City

Gr 7 Up–Bledsoe combines memoir with survival tips and fun facts in this friendly, “come-along” book about her experiences in Antarctica. She builds a snow shelter and spends the night in it, observes wildlife, visits a number of research stations, takes a helicopter ride, and gets plenty cold! Her first-person narrative adds excitement to the already interesting adventure, and her enthusiasm for the continent comes through on every page. Clear and informative maps and line drawings appear throughout. Black-and-white snapshots and sidebars give further information on the people and events that shape the continent. This is an engaging book to be read through and enjoyed rather than used as fodder for reports.–Amelia Jenkins, Juneau Public Library, AK

Gr 4-6–An attractive book that was specifically designed around questions sent in by Canadian children. Topics include polar bears, dinosaurs, icebergs, hockey, totem poles, archaeology, and more. Tour guides Vivien and Morton escort readers on a highly visual and graphically appealing journey through some of the lesser-used corridors of the country. Various questions or comments are printed at the tops of the pages, and the guides appear as comic characters who converse throughout the text. The three chapters are grouped around subtopics: “Highly Questionable Critters” (aspects of wildlife), “This Land of Ours” (anything geographical, geological, or agricultural), and “Explain Yourselves, Canadians!” (culture or recreation). The art, a combination of full-color photos and collage illustrations, resembles the layout of a scrapbook. Given the format, the book will be a little tricky to use for research, but it’s a perfect book for browsing.–Corrina Austin, Locke’s Public School, St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada

Gr 3-6–With a well-designed format and clear, concise prose, these biographies provide glimpses into the lives of their subjects. Brill’s description of Obama’s childhood is poignant, and the passages dealing with his relationship with his father are especially well written. The author also does a great job of presenting the senator’s successes and failures impartially. On the other hand, McElroy’s recounting of Gonzales’s childhood occasionally becomes sentimental. Sidebars in both titles offer either brief summaries of important sections or interesting insights not mentioned in the texts. Color and black-and-white photographs of the men, beginning in childhood, include private and public-relations shots. Easy to read, factually correct, and serviceable for research.–Melissa Christy Buron, Epps Island Elementary, Houston, TX

Gr 6-9–A fictionalized biography. Thorpe spent his life running–running away from school, running on the baseball diamond, running the football, or running to win both the pentathlon and the decathlon in the 1912 Olympics in Stockholm. His accomplishments, his kindness and consideration of others, his defeats, and his exploitation are related in first-person narration, from his childhood on an Oklahoma reservation to the loss of his Olympic medals for playing on a professional minor-league baseball team. Readers learn about his athletic performances (some related play by play), his triumphs, his friendships, and his hardships through the use of dialogue and description. The trust that Thorpe had in others and his own perseverance show both his personal weaknesses and strengths. While the writing is accessible, Bruchac’s use of the first person is likely to mislead or confuse readers. Twelve poor-quality, black-and-white photographs document the subject’s time at Carlisle Indian Industrial School and show him receiving the gold medal for the pentathlon from King Gustav V of Sweden.–Janice C. Hayes, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro

Gr 9 Up–This series entry does not disappoint. Each chapter addresses a type of job related to the field, from acquisitions librarian to research assistant. Each entry includes a brief job description, history, a more detailed explanation of the work, education and physical requirements, possible employers, advancement opportunities, earnings, work environment, future outlook, and a section on professional organizations and associations. A “Quick Facts” box summarizes the requirements for each career. A well-organized and well-written addition.–Kathleen A. Nester, Downingtown High Ninth Grade Center, PA

Gr 9 Up–Exploring the philosophical and psychological aspects of communication, Carlson encourages young people to begin with a study of their own thoughts, feelings, and reactions, and clarifies the difference between conversation and having a dialogue with someone. After the self-examination process, teens can begin to improve their communication skills with the people around them, including those they don’t like. The author mixes Eastern philosophical principles like meditation and selflessness with psychological examinations of language and communication “scripts” that people perform in their daily lives. The principles and terms will likely be unfamiliar to teens, and the writing style is often inscrutable. There are many wonderful tips to effective communication in the book, but the format of lengthy chapters with little variation is not well suited to this audience. Useful in libraries with strong New Age or Eastern philosophy collections.–Jane Cronkhite, Cuyahoga County Public Library, OH

Gr 7 Up–The United States has a history of restricting rights during times of war. This volume examines four significant Supreme Court cases: Charles T. Schenck v. United States (1919), involving suppressing speech that poses a clear and present danger; Toyosaburo Korematsu v. United States (1944), which deals with the evacuation of Japanese Americans; New York Times Co. v. United States (1971), which revolves around the publication of the Pentagon Papers and the issue of prior restraint; and Yaser Esam Hamdi et al. v. Donald H. Rumsfeld et al. (2004), which entails due-process rights and enemy combatants. A synopsis of each case is followed by the court’s decision, presenting both majority and dissenting opinions, as well as other considerations by individuals associated with it. An annotated table of contents is followed by an introduction to the topic beginning with Lincoln’s suspension of civil liberties during the Civil War. An important, timely addition for most collections.–Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL

Gr 6 Up–An easy-to-use, attractive cookbook. The section “Get in the Kitchen!” explains using a recipe, making a grocery list, how to measure accurately, mixing, and learning the rules of the kitchen. “Are You Ready?” shows preparation techniques. Food safety and handling are also stressed. Cooking terms such as broil, boil, simmer, microwave, and bake are defined in “What’s Cooking?” The recipes themselves are organized according to how the snacks and meals are eaten: “Finger-Lickin’ Good,” “By the Handful,” “Fork It Over,” and “Lovin’ Every Spoonful.” The directions are clearly written; sidebars explain needed equipment or give helpful comments and suggestions. Color photographs illustrate each recipe and also show relevant techniques. The snacks are visually appealing and promoted as being healthier than prepared or packaged foods.–Kathleen A. Nester, Downingtown High Ninth Grade Center, PA

Gr 5-9–These entries in an offshoot of the “Opposing Viewpoints” series attempt to make environmental information accessible to a younger audience. Including color photographs, charts, maps, and graphs, they tackle broad issues of environmental concern. In Energy Alternatives, journalists, experts, and analysts with a variety of perspectives offer ideas about the need, availability, and costs of energy sources. Environment explores “the balance between protecting the natural world and encouraging economic growth and development.” In both books, fact-based questions introduce each reading, and critical-thinking exercises close each section. Students are encouraged to draw conclusions based on comparisons of the readings. Although there is some minimal background information about each author, none is offered for the publications from which the articles are derived. Some of the material is already dated. Nonetheless, these titles can serve as introductions to controversial topics and encourage discussion and further exploration.–Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY

Gr 9 Up–Designed to support serious academic study, these three volumes (in a six-volume series) offer detail-rich discussions of their respective topics. Each one opens with the same introductory matter, closes with the same set of appendixes, and in between systematically covers basic facts, interior and exterior physical features, and exploratory missions both past and planned. Information is current enough to include, for instance, a mention of the August 12, 2005, launch of the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, but not the November 9th departure of the Venus Express. Though replete with tables, technical details, and mathematical calculations, none of the presentations offers more than a perfunctory assortment of black-and-white photos, supplemented by one small color section per volume. The closing lists of recommended books and Web sites are likewise stingy, but do provide some avenues for keeping current. Consider for assignment use, where circulating materials are needed to back up such reference resources as Paul Weissman’s The Encyclopedia of the Solar System (Academic, 1998) or Kenneth R. Lang’s The Cambridge Guide to the Solar System (Cambridge Univ., 2003).–John Peters, New York Public Library

Gr 5 Up–Part children’s book, part autobiography, part design treatise, this hard-to-categorize Egyptian import is full of wonders from start to finish. Ellabbad uses excerpts from his notebooks to discuss ways of seeing art from an artist’s perspective and as someone from an Arabic culture. Printed like the Egyptian edition–read right to left–the pages are magnificently and surprisingly illustrated, juxtaposing Arabic script (English translations appear in the margins), watercolor paintings, pasted-in photos and pictures from comic books, and all manner of characters from Eastern and Western cultures. From the henna paintings on a woman’s hands and feet, to a photograph of a village house decorated with a lifelike mural, to a reproduction of an Ottoman sultan’s signature done in ornate calligraphy, Ellabbad contemplates different forms of expression and how these images spur the imagination and stimulate personal reflection. On a page featuring sketches of an Egyptian 10-pound note, he encourages readers to re-examine familiar things (“…have you ever looked at the beautiful landscape that is drawn right in the palm of your hand?”). Scrapbook memoirs are paired with a discussion of the importance of souvenirs (from ticket stubs to pyramids) for awakening memories and preserving the past. The warm and inviting prose goes beyond aesthetics and poses questions such as “Who are our heroes?” “What is memory?” “Where do stories come from?” The Illustrator’s Notebook presents a revealing introduction to Arabic culture and will appeal particularly to visually oriented youngsters.–Steev Baker, Kewaskum Public Library, WI

Gr 4-8–These books are appropriate for students interested in becoming better fiction writers and can also be used by teachers looking for a fun but methodical way to teach creative writing. Farrell presents the steps to follow when developing genre fiction and encourages reading as one of the surest ways to become a successful writer. Each of the nine chapters offers writing assignments, and “Tips and Techniques” are highlighted on almost every spread. The layout promotes active reading. Each idea or technique is introduced in a visual “cell,” giving readers an explanation of the concept and then an exercise to practice it. Full-color photographs, movie stills, and fun graphics enliven the presentations. Quotes and tips from many favorite children’s and young adult writers reinforce the chapters. It’s hard to think of a better way to hook emerging writers up with good advice about honing their skills.–Marcie Mann, Lafayette Jr. Sr. High School, NY

Gr 4-8–Fleischman looks at Houdini’s life through his own eyes, as a fellow magician. Guarding the secrets, yet entertaining readers, he tells the “rags-to-rags” story of a poor Jewish boy named Ehrich Weiss, who longed to be like his idol, French magician Robert-Houdin. Not satisfied to perform the usual magicians’ fare, he began perfecting tricks involving illusion, particularly escaping from restraints such as trunks, handcuffs, and straightjackets. While performing in small medicine shows and vaudeville theater, Ehrich, now Harry Houdini, met his wife and stage partner, Bess. Houdini learned stunt flying and how to make elephants disappear but gained the most attention from his public stunts, such as defying Scotland Yard to keep him locked up, or wrapping himself in chains and jumping into a river. Years later, he was about to perform his “Chinese Water Torture” trick when his appendix ruptured and he died in a local hospital. Fleischman’s tone is lively and he develops a relationship with readers by revealing just enough truth behind Houdini’s “razzle-dazzle” to keep the legend alive. Numerous black-and-white photographs chronicle the magician’s life, and Fleischman’s postscript shares his own relationship with Madame Houdini, whom he visited at length when he was a young man. Engaging and fascinating.–Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY

Gr 7 Up–Gaines explains light and shadow composition, how to avoid camera shake, color combinations, etc., and goes over basic functions that are common to all digital cameras. Black-and-white photos are included. This accessible guide is easier to understand than the typical manual that comes with a camera. Readers of all skill levels will learn from it and have fun doing so.–Erin Dennington, Chantilly Regional Library, Fairfax County, VA

Gr 4-6–The first title is devoted to light and seeing, mixing colors, and more. Each of 10 chapters includes an experiment, followed by an explanation of why it works, and offers ideas for devising projects to present at a science fair. For example, an experiment designed to show how light bends uses a pencil in a glass of water. Readers are then directed to find other ways to demonstrate the principle involved. The first chapter of Machines explains force, friction, distance, and work. The book then introduces levers, inclined planes, pulleys, etc. Both titles have the same introductory paragraphs about what science-fair judges look for and lists of safety rules that address the need for adult supervision. Large colorful, cartoonlike drawings complement the texts. Most of the materials required should be readily found at home or at school. These books may not be entirely accessible to children without some background in the principles discussed, but they offer solid information.–Maren Ostergard, Bellevue Regional Library, WA

Gr 5-8–This overview is told from the perspective of a Hawaiian boy kayaking with his father around the state. At each island he explains a little about the history, natural science, culture, and economy. He speaks in a bubbly, colloquial voice peppered with local slang. The title page is crowded with a Hawaiian-language guide including alphabet, pronunciation, and vocabulary. The vivid, acrylic art bursts with color on each spread. It fills the pages, and the text appears in white boxes or is printed in white, but it is never difficult to read. Sometimes the images relate to one another to form a realistic picture; however, there is an occasional inconsistency in scale. For example, Father Damien towers above his chapel. However, readers sophisticated enough for the text will be comfortable with the creativity of the illustrations. The end of the book expresses the importance of preserving the state’s natural and cultural resources. Gill is best known for her warm and wonderful books about Alaska. She succeeds equally well in a new climate. A lovely and lively introduction.–Amelia Jenkins, Juneau Public Library, AK

Gr 6 Up–The featured artists all live in the United States but come from a variety of cultural backgrounds. The art forms they practice include singing with the Bejing Opera, boat building, wax-flower making, weaving, and performing at Mardi Gras. Govenar’s interviews with them not only explore their art, but also their history. He includes interesting homey details that show the subjects’ personalities and help readers connect with them as individuals. High-quality color and black-and-white photographs appear throughout. Some of the images are archival, while others show how these modern artists accomplish their crafts. The photographs, coupled with the engaging narrative, give readers the impression that they are actually visiting the homes and workshops of these artists. This extraordinarily handsome title is an outstanding addition to cultural-arts collections.–Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT

Gr 4-6–A finely illustrated, well-organized book. Five sections cover early knights, the Crusades, chivalry, the Hundred Years War, and more. Chapters are short but enticing. A few of the men (Braveheart, El Cid, Richard the Lionheart) may be familiar, but most names will be new. Joan of Arc gets a brief mention. There is humor–William Marshal is shown about to have his tournament-dented helmet hammered off his head–as well as horror–Sir John Chandos takes a lance in his eye. Even the dread of medieval medicine is touched upon: Henry of Monmouth is shown having surgery to deal with an arrow lodged in his cheekbone. Fact sheets at the end of each section offer brief information on castles, weapons, food, tournaments, etc. The large and mostly colorful illustrations bring the subjects to life. Even the monotone drawings are impressive. One confusing paragraph describes Bohemund the giant as having blond hair and a ruddy complexion, but he’s shown resembling Sylvester Stallone more than, say, Gary Busey. Not really in-depth enough for reports, this smart choice will, however, attract even reluctant readers who are at all interested in knights.–Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WI

Gr 6-9–These slim volumes are updated editions of titles published in 2000. Each one includes the play’s historical background, sources, characters, plot, and themes, followed by a somewhat more detailed description of its performance history. Five of the six books on the further-reading list are repeated for each volume, and the “Additional Resources” list is also duplicated in each book. The illustrations, consisting of reproductions of primary-source materials and color photographs of recent productions, are attractive, and the discussions of past productions and actors’ perspectives could be helpful to students thinking about the plays in performance. However, the literary analyses are perfunctory and sometimes oversimplified, limiting the usefulness of these books for research.–Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ

Gr 6-9–Gonzalez served for 37 years in the U.S. House of Representatives. During that time, he fought against segregation and discrimination. He was a voice for the poor and for new immigrants. Haugen does a masterful job of describing his childhood and the influences that shaped his future life in politics. The writing is energetic and lively, keeping readers engaged. Numerous quotes and excerpts appear throughout, and well-chosen illustrations enhance the text. A solid choice for biography collections.–Melissa Christy Buron, Epps Island Elementary, Houston, TX

Gr 8 Up–In 28 (mostly brief) articles or excerpts, writers make arguments for and against China’s progress toward democracy, military threat (especially to Taiwan), developing economy, and major crises (environmental, health, governance). A preface to each chapter and three questions preceding each entry help keep readers focused. Jargon is minimal; clarifications appear in brackets, eliminating most footnotes. Periodical bibliographies follow each section, and a dozen discussion questions, an annotated list of contact organizations, and a book bibliography end the volume. Sources are mostly 2003-2005 and range from The Economist to Time International, the Wall Street Journal, Foreign Affairs, the New York Times, and state organs of China itself. A great resource for critical reading, debate, papers, and discussion.–Patricia D. Lothrop, St. George’s School, Newport, RI

Gr 9 Up–As the author notes, some of the “vulnerabilities that have made these widespread threats possible are the same technological advances that have made computers more useful and versatile.” Personal ethics become part of the picture when the people who design and work with these systems have the ability to “wreak havoc on the Web.” This text delves into the complex issues surrounding this topic. In chapter one, discussions of the development of viruses by hackers take readers from the computer department at MIT to the concept of shared computers and shared programs. Chapter two explains the early work of worms, their anatomy, and their evolution into something destructive. How different types of viruses such as the Trojan horse spread and grow as well as the parallel between biological disease and computer viruses further this discussion. Other chapters cover the motives of hackers, the extensive costs and impact of cyberattacks, and the efforts to provide a defense with antivirus software. The final chapter discusses the future of viruses and computer technology. Captioned black-and-white photos do little to entice readers, but diagrams, drawings, clever cartoons, a few charts, and fact boxes add some appeal.–Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE

Gr 7 Up–This book joins a number of others on Garvey, including those by Peggy Caravantes (Morgan Reynolds, 2003) and Anne Schraff (Enslow, 2004). While those authors seek primarily to explain his life, Kallen seeks more to discuss and expand on his contributions to Black Nationalism, and to place his particular movement within the context of his times. Here, Garvey emerges as a man who anticipated those later movements that centered on black pride and black power. In an exceptionally evenhanded manner, the author also shows Garvey to have been naive, unrealistic, and lacking in management skills. A superb speechmaker, a charismatic leader, and an excellent propagandist, he seemed ill prepared to deal with the powerful enemies he made, both black and white, in government and out. The result was a precipitous fall. Kallen describes this all in clear, well-written prose. Archival photographs are placed throughout to good advantage. An excellent addition.–Carol Jones Collins, Columbia High School, Maplewood, NJ

Gr 6-9–With balance and lucidity, Kent presents the life and times of one of Western civilization’s most significant political leaders. Though occasionally venturing into opinion (as when he calls Rome “the strongest nation the world had ever seen”) and internalization (“As an army general Caesar hoped to win fame as a warrior”), the author hews closely to the accepted facts and understandings about the man, frequently referring to or quoting from both ancient and modern writers/historians. After beginning with a short “hook” chapter concerning Caesar’s decision to cross the Rubicon River and precipitate a civil war, Kent moves into a chronological accounting that swiftly and cogently sums up Rome’s early growth into a republican empire and places Caesar in his social and political milieu. About a quarter of the text is devoted to the subject’s formative years as governor and conqueror of Gaul. Things move swiftly forward in the book’s final third: the civil war, Caesar’s affair with Cleopatra, his untouchable preeminence, his assassination, and the rise to power of his adopted son Octavian. The author is careful to note the strengths and weaknesses of Caesar’s personality and activities–his vanity, his willingness to throw his country into civil war, his kinglike powers are set against his skills as a military commander and governor, his reform of the calendar, his architectural and job-creation programs. This is a balanced, well-written, and solid treatment for libraries needing to add or update their coverage of a man whose achievements still impact the world today.–Coop Renner, Hillside Elementary, El Paso, TX

Gr 9 Up–This revision of Life Lines: The Story of the New Genetics (Facts On File, 1999) introduces readers to the history of genetics, including Gregor Mendel’s studies of plant cross-pollination, Thomas Hunt Morgan’s research with fruit flies, and Watson and Crick’s discovery of the structure of DNA, and continuing with Nobel Prize-winning research of the 1980s and earlier. As in the first edition, many of the black-and-white photos are portraits of early genetic pioneers. Standard textbook explanations are offered for how DNA is replicated, how genes code for proteins, and how RNA serves in enzyme systems. The text discusses a few recent advances, such as the mapping of the human genome, cloning, and genetically modified crops and animals, but there are many gaps in coverage. The emphasis is largely on discoveries and developments of the 20th century rather than the 21st. For example, the authors discuss the promise of stem-cell science to repair body parts and cure diseases, but do not address the current political conundrums hampering future advances. The last, barely three-page chapter is entitled “Future Prospects,” but there is little new in the entire text to justify the book’s title. Students and educators needing a comprehensive, up-to-date overview of stem-cell research should consult Toney Allman’s Stem Cells (Gale, 2005). –Caroline Geck, Kean University, Union, NJ

Gr 3-6–A handsome book on the history of glassmaking. Starting with faience, developed in Egypt around 2500 B.C., the author’s precisely worded, carefully detailed text and watercolor artwork explain the steps for producing various types of glass and glassware. Coverage is chronological from the origins of glassblowing in Syria in 30 B.C. to production of Roman luxury glass, magnifying lenses, engraved Venetian glass, stained-glass windows, glass mirrors, lead crystal, crown glass, plate glass, molded glass, glass-tube neon lighting, and optical fiber. Much information is compacted into the smoothly written narrative. Captioned illustrations are well matched with the text and extend the information value of the book. The map on the endpapers identifies regions of early glass production. This title is suitable for browsers and those beginning research and would work well when combined with Claire Llewellyn’s Glass (Watts, 2002), which focuses more on the science of glass, modern methods of production, and recycling.–Lynn K. Vanca, Akron-Summit County Public Library, Richfield, OH

Gr 9 Up–This no-nonsense volume deals with all aspects of the disease, including coping with feelings and relationships, day-to-day living with diabetes, and basic medical facts. The 59 chapters also include information on the condition in various ethnic groups and related health concerns. “It’s a Fact” and “Quick Tip” information boxes appear throughout. Students dealing with their own diabetes or that of a friend or family member or those writing reports on the topic will find this a valuable resource.–Lynn Evarts, Sauk Prairie High School, Prairie du Sac, WI

Gr 4-8–Comparing exploration of the ocean with that of outer space, Lindop covers the equipment used and knowledge sought by underwater biologists and geologists. She presents the different zones of the sea, traces the development of diving equipment, and describes a typical dive. Topics include the mid-ocean ridge, plate tectonics, and continental drift; hydrothermal vents; bioluminescence; underwater cameras; and deep-sea remotely operated robot explorers. Information on specific projects, such as the joint French-American Mid-Ocean Undersea Study (FAMOUS) and its part in confirming the theory of continental drift is included. A closing passage explains an expedition using a nuclear sub to map the sea floor underneath the Arctic ice pack. The author effectively conveys a sense of suspense and researchers’ surprise at unexpected discoveries. Color photos illustrate the equipment used, people involved, and sea floor explored, but do not capture or enhance the wonder conveyed by the text. Brad Matsen’s The Incredible Record-Setting Deep-Sea Dive of the Bathysphere and The Incredible Submersible Alvin Discovers a Strange Deep-Sea World (both Enslow, 2003) provide more detail on the submersibles and their feats, but Lindop offers more on how they are used in research.–Jeffrey A. French, Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, Willowick, OH

Gr 3-6–The authors encourage youngsters to take action to reduce their “ecological footprint.” Short chapters on topics such as the amount of waste generated in a typical North American household or types of plastic that can be recycled are interspersed with folktales, historical vignettes, and contemporary examples of community and individual actions that impact the environment (e.g., Toronto’s composting initiative). The broad coverage ranges from litter left on Mount Everest to waste incinerators to the orbiting junkyard people have created in space. The conversational writing style is reinforced by cartoon illustrations that feature three characters–made from pre-used materials–that offer running commentary on the various subjects. The book ends with a questionnaire that readers can use to determine how their various purchases will affect the environment. The breezy style will attract browsers and may encourage them to try some of the trash-reduction strategies suggested. Titles such as Rob Bowden’s Waste (Gale, 2004) or Anita Ganeri’s Something Old, Something New (Heinemann Library, 2005) offer more straightforward and focused accounts of different aspects of reducing waste. Trash Action will complement, but not replace, other nonfiction choices.–Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Gr 4-7–Markle relates the stories of individuals who survived various disaster scenes and the efforts of their rescuers. Situations described include an avalanche, a coal-mining accident, a capsized sailboat, stranded mountain climbers, CRASAR robots searching the 9/11 debris, the 2004 tsunami, and Hurricane Katrina. Each chapter tells about the events leading up to the incident, what happened that put the person(s) in danger, and rescue techniques and equipment. Each chapter begins with an excellent-quality full-page color photo followed by a mustard-colored page of text. The rest of the text is attractively arranged around numerous other photos. A short paragraph tells about the featured people today. The vocabulary is right on target for the intended audience. A first choice for general readers and for those needing material on this topic.–Eldon Younce, Harper Elementary School, KS

Gr 4-6–Rats and humans have had a very long love/hate relationship as readers discover in this lively and informative overview of the history and behavior of the widely encountered rodent. Emphasizing the animal’s capabilities for survival, Marrin offers both anecdotal accounts of human/rat encounters and impressive statistics. Rats have occupied the Earth far longer than humans, and they compete prodigiously for the world’s food supply, earning their reputation as major pests to humankind. On the other hand, they provide an important source of protein for the many humans who eat them worldwide. (Not a pleasing bit of information for readers who have loved them as pets.) The nine short chapters are set in a handsome slim book with striking black-and-white scratchboard illustrations and muted red framing on many pages. Marrin touches briefly on physical characteristics as he explains the veneration of rats in some cultures, attempts to eradicate them in others, and rats as both carriers of disease and valued subjects of medical research. It’s a different sort of discussion and format for this well-known historian and biographer and one that he has clearly enjoyed, as will a wide variety of nonfiction readers and animal fans. There’s a bibliography of adult sources and children’s nonfiction as well as a listing of literary works featuring rats.–Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston

Gr 4-8–This beautiful, well-written book opens with the years before the Europeans came to America, discussing how the bison and Native Americans came to the New World, the importance of the animal to the survival of the Plains Indians, and the Native peoples’ spiritual relationship with the buffalo. The next two chapters discuss how the arrival of the white men brought the horses that improved the hunting techniques and lives of the Native Americans, but also led to the destruction of their way of life and the near extinction of the bison. The final chapter relates the myth of the white buffalo and ties the 1994 birth of a white buffalo to the recent resurgence of interest in Native American ideas, rituals, and respect for the natural environment and the increase in buffalo populations. Each chapter opens with a retelling of a Native myth. Patent’s narrative is clear and her writing is almost lyrical. Muñoz’s breathtaking color photos of bison, landscapes, and artifacts are mixed with reproductions of period art and illustrations. Although The Buffalo Hunters (Time-Life, 1999) covers much of the same material in greater depth, it is more suited to an older audience and is not as well written as this title. Patent’s remarkable book deserves a place in every collection.–Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 7 Up–This biography begins promisingly with a delineation of Eleanor’s character and a clear setting of the scene (both in time and place). However, by the midway point, the text turns into a sometimes confusing recitation of events. There are numerous errors, misspellings, and omissions; the maps are woefully inadequate (two antique reproductions are impossible to decipher, while the one modern map is incomplete). The same 19th-century, romanticized portrait of Eleanor appears twice in the book as well as on the cover. Sapet repeatedly uses Catholic terminology without definition (Virgin Mary, abbot, cardinals, martyr, mass, atone, penance, papal decree, defrocked). No teen biography of Eleanor to date can compare with Polly Schoyer Brooks’s superbly written Queen Eleanor: Independent Spirit of the Medieval World (Houghton, 1999).–Ann W. Moore, Schenectady County Public Library, NY

Gr 7 Up–Sartor’s diary entries begin in 1972, the year of her 13th birthday, and continue until she is 18. All around her, in her rural Louisiana town, things were changing. Girls and boys were dating, the local high schools were becoming integrated, and new Evangelical Christian churches were forming. Despite the turbulent times, the author’s writing reflects the typical concerns and crises of a teenage girl, from shopping for bras with her mother to taking placement tests at school to trying to figure out how to kiss without bumping noses. An introduction and epilogue provide some historical context, but the bulk of the text consists of the diary entries without further comment. Black-and-white photographs (presumably of the author, though no identifying information is provided) are placed at the beginning of each calendar year. The entries gradually reveal Sartor’s growth over the years, but the book’s format forces a tight focus on whatever events were most important at the time they were recorded. While some teens might be intrigued by this peek into someone else’s life, this title may have difficulty finding an audience.–Beth Gallego, Los Angeles Public Library, North Hollywood

Gr 8 Up–The authors explain the causes, methods of prevention, and treatment of heart disease in an accessible and interesting way. Terms and procedures are clearly explained. Various chapters deal effectively with everything from how the heart works to current repairs for “broken” hearts to the future of cardiology. The authors combine personal stories with medical information to create a readable book that can be used for reports or general interest. Small black-and-white photos break up the text.–Lynn Evarts, Sauk Prairie High School, Prairie du Sac, WI

Gr 7 Up–This collection of essays examines how race is experienced in this country by considering the following questions: “Should America’s Racial Differences Be Emphasized?,” “What Impact Does Immigration Have on Interracial America?,” “What Policies Promote Opportunities for All Races?,” and “How Should Society View Interracial Families?” The viewpoints expressed are excerpted from a variety of publications, and a periodical bibliography of related articles accompanies each chapter. Pieces from bell hooks, Clarence Thomas, the editors of Rethinking Schools, the League of United Latin American Citizens, and the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund are among the selections included. For social-studies classes wishing to delve into the matter of race, this volume should prove helpful when used in conjunction with other source materials. It will be a boon to debaters.–Carol Jones Collins, Columbia High School, Maplewood, NJ

Gr 9 Up–This is a detailed biography of the photographer and innovator who felt that she made photographs and didn’t just take them. Her 1930s pictures of New York City and of Paris socialites are still well known, and hers were the first images used to illustrate theories of physics. Her life was enthralling, even if her story ended, as Abbott claimed, 20 years before her death at 93, when she purchased a home in Maine and lived these years in near solitude. Not only have Abbott’s honest portraits and remarkable cityscapes been celebrated since the 1960s, but some of her inventions are still used by photographers. The reproductions are outstanding, featuring crisp lines and deep detail. Quotes from Abbott offer foundational support for imaging workshops, though it is unclear whether high school students will be captivated enough by the prosaic writing to grasp fully the impact that this artist had on modern imaging techniques.–Jodi Kearns, University of Akron, OH

Gr 4 Up–Empowered women are the focus of this collection and empowering young women is seemingly its intention. Drawing from the mythology of 10 diverse cultures (Navajo, Celtic, Inuit, Buddhist, Egyptian, Mayan, Shinto, Sumerian, Hindu, and Fon), Tchana demonstrates that legends of supernaturally gifted females are endemic in human belief systems, though they may have receded into the background in recent millennia. Tchana and Hyman united to bring goddesses back into the limelight in this handsome volume. The stories are each accompanied by a paragraph about the featured figure and her land of origin and each one is told with attention to the rhythms of their original languages. In an afterword, Hyman states that she contacted “each goddess personally…[to]…ask how she would like to be portrayed.” The resultant lush, multimedia collages combine her characteristically sinuous ink lines with elements such as photographs, handmade paper, fabric, and fragments of other artists’ paintings. It is certainly interesting to read about so many previously obscure goddesses. The subject of this volume, paired with the reputation of its illustrator, will induce many libraries to include it in their collections. –Miriam Lang Budin, Chappaqua Public Library, NY

Gr 6 Up–Some of the biggest names in zine publishing have united to create a fun, informative introduction to the art form in the format of a zine itself. True to its title, it begins by defining terms: a zine is a mini-magazine or homemade comic about any topic of the creator’s choice, designed for maximum creativity and expression. The authors present a history of self-publishing and a treatise on Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Edison, and William Blake as the first pre-zinesters. Other topics include ideas for zine subjects; copying, binding, and printing tips, including easy-to-understand silk-screening and gocco instruction; and even a review of staplers, all while maintaining a fresh and inspirational tone. Other useful sections are an interview with BUST magazine founder Laurie Henzel, an original zinester, and guidelines on beating writer’s block and disciplining oneself to work on a zine. The book presents a convincing argument for zines over blogs as a better outlet for personal creativity. The authors include tips for a cooperative zine among friends and fellow artists, how to distribute a publication and create contacts, advice on pricing supplies, mail, and invoices. The book also includes a brief list of resources, zine libraries, and a glossary. Throughout, technical terms are deftly used and advice is dispensed in an accessible, rousing format that includes comics, drawings, and cut-and-paste zine techniques. This well-designed and entertaining resource is sure to find an audience among hip, artistic, and do-it-yourself enthusiasts.–Jane Cronkhite, Cuyahoga County Public Library, OH

Gr 6-9–This slim volume packs a lot into its pages. The text is dense and informative, covering history, local life, science, society, the subantarctic, and the future. Tulloch discusses environmental problems and explains how human waste is handled. Other voices, such as a doctor’s and geologist’s, are quoted in sidebars. The book stresses the importance of protecting Antarctica. Photos vary in quality and many are postage-stamp size. They are crammed together, with sometimes as many as 10 images on a single page. They are all well captioned, but the effect is cluttered. The attractive watercolor illustrations are a bit larger. This is an eye-catching book packed with gems for browsing, and the presentation makes it suitable for reports.–Amelia Jenkins, Juneau Public Library, AK

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