Science GPS
rd
Suggestion 1:
Title: Earthshake : poems from the ground up / by Lisa
Westberg Peters ; pictures by Cathie Felstead.
Publisher: Greenwillow Books, c2003.
ISBN: 0-06-029266-0
Dewey: 811 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: K-3 Reading Level: 3.2
$17.89
Summary:
Presents twenty-two poems about geology. End notes provide information about the earth's surface and interior, types of rocks, and how volcanoes, glaciers, and erosion modify the landscape.
Review:
School Library Journal (September 1, 2003)
Gr 1-6-Twenty-two delightful poems with a geological theme, including pieces on tectonic plates, lava, strata, and fossils. Exuberant, silly, and serious by turns, the selections engage imagination with often-humorous wordplay. The simple yet clever collages, many of which incorporate clip-art elements, deepen the intellectual and emotional content, yet keep a light tone
Suggestion 2:
Title: Down to earth / by Melissa Stewart ; illustrator,
Jeffrey Scherer.
Publisher: Compass Point Books, c2004.
ISBN: 0-7565-0595-X
Dewey: 631.4 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: K-3
$15.95
Reading Level: 4.3
Summary:
Introduces the components of soil, patterns of change, and erosion.
Review:
School Library Journal (October 1, 2004)
Gr 2-4-Large color photographs; clear, precise sentences; and carefully chosen questions introduce the techniques of scientific observation. Readers are encouraged to use a notebook to write down what they see and to include sketches of the wildlife or layers of rocks and soil that they observe.

Science GPS
Suggestion 1:
Title: Fossil fever / by Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld ; illustrated by Paulette Bogan.
Publisher: Random House, 2004, c2000.
ISBN: 0-307-26400-9
Dewey: -Fic- Classifications: Fiction
Interest Level: 3-6
$8.36
Reading Level: 4.1
rd
Summary:
Jeff must learn patience when he accompanies his uncle on an expedition to hunt for dinosaur fossils in the Sahara
Desert. Based on the real discovery of Afrovenator by
Paul Sereno in 1993.
Review:
Booklist (Vol. 96, No. 18 (May 15, 2000))
Gr. 2-4. Jeff knows exactly what he wants to do on his summer vacation: hunt for dinosaur fossils in the Sahara
Desert with Uncle Roy and his crew. He thinks it will be nonstop action, but as his field journal reveals, fossil hunting is not the exciting adventure he thought it would be: "All these days and not a fossil in sight. Nothing, nothing but sand." Then Jeff trips over a rock, and to everyone's surprise and delight, Uncle Roy declares the rock to be the "distal end of a femur." The rest is history.
Suggestion 2:
Title: Monster bones : the story of a dinosaur fossil /
Jacqui Bailey ; illustrated by Matthew Lilly.
Publisher: Picture Window Books, 2004, c2003.
ISBN: 1-40480-565-6
Dewey: 567.9 Classifications: Nonfiction
Reading Level: 3.8 Interest Level: 3-6
Series: Science works
$17.95
Summary:
Describes how the bones of a dinosaur became fossilized, were discovered by a paleontologist, and were ultimately displayed in a museum.
Review:
Library Media Connection (October 2004)
This book weaves factual information into an interesting story with quality literary elements such as similes and imagery. The book takes the reader on a journey that begins with the history of the dinosaur and how fossils were created moving seamlessly to an archeological site where paleontologists search for fossils. The importance of documentation, record-keeping, and careful handling of fossils is emphasized.

Science GPS
rd
Suggestion 1:
Title: Do ducks live in the desert? : a book about where animals live / by Michael Dahl ; illustrated by Anne
Haberstroh.
Publisher: Picture Window Books, c2004.
ISBN: 1-40480-290-8
Dewey: 590
Interest Level: K-3
Classifications: Nonfiction
Reading Level: 4.0
Series: Animals all around
$16.95
Summary:
Presents a variety of animals and the different places in which they live.
Suggestion 2:
Title: The ecosystem of a fallen tree / Elaine Pascoe ; photography by Dwight Kuhn.
Publisher: PowerKids Press, 2003.
ISBN: 0-8239-6308-X
Dewey: 577 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6 Reading Level: 4.2
Series: Library of small ecosystems
$15.95
Summary:
Describes the plant and animal life associated with a fallen tree, all of which create a miniature, co-dependent ecosystem.
Review:
Library Media Connection (October 2004)
Do you want an elementary science book that moves off the shelves? The child appeal of this book begins on the cover with a redheaded duck standing out on the desert sands. Every page is bright and colorful with touches of humor. Readers want to turn the pages just to see what new and silly animal might live in the desert. The righthand page always asks the question, "Do _____live in the desert?" When the page is turned, the reader learns that,
"No! ___live in ___," inserting the proper habitat for the animal under question. Several short sentences then explain the animal's environment and what they eat.
Finally, the appropriate animal is identified.
Review:
Library Media Connection (February 2004)
The definition of an ecosystem found on the first page in each book serves as a common link, which reinforces learning about an ecosystem and what an ecosystem provides for its inhabitants. Simple vocabulary, with just enough detail, and easy-to-understand definitions provided within the text or within the glossary enable a budding scientific observer to learn independently or as part of a group. Glorious photographs by Dwight Kuhn enhance each page. The "Photo Gallery" feature enables the reader to view up-close the animals and other details of the environment.

Science GPS
rd
Suggestion 1:
Title: Earth friends at school / Francine Galko.
Publisher: Heinemann Library, c2004.
ISBN: 1-40344-897-3
Dewey: 333.72 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: K-3 Reading Level: 3.9
Series: Earth friends;Heinemann first library
$17.75
Summary:
Explains what natural resources are, and offers suggestions to young readers on how they can use natural resources wisely at school, including turning off lights, recycling, sharing books and other materials, throwing away litter, using less paper, and other conservation efforts.
Review:
Horn Book (Fall 2004)
These simple approaches to conservation of natural resources for young readers present their earth-friendly message in posed photos and easy sentences. Each book centers on a place within a child's sphere of activity, contains a light sprinkling of information, and offers an uncomplicated project.
Suggestion 2:
Title: Earth Day / by Linda Lowery ; illustrations by
Mary Bergherr ; with a foreword by Gaylord Nelson.
Publisher: Carolrhoda Books, c2004.
ISBN: 1-57505-700-X
Dewey: 333.7 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: K-3 Reading Level: 4.1
Series: On my own holidays
$17.95
Summary:
Explains, in simple text and illustrations, how and why
Earth Day became an international holiday calling global attention to the problems of pollution, environmental destruction, and waste of natural resources.
Review:

Science GPS
rd
Suggestion 1:
Title: Temperature : heating up and cooling down / written by Darlene R. Stille ; illustrated by Sheree Boyd.
Publisher: Picture Window Books, c2004.
ISBN: 1-40480-247-9
Dewey: 536 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: K-3
Series: Amazing science
Reading Level: 2.5
$16.95
Summary:
Measuring temperature -- Where heat comes from -- How things get hot or cold -- Staying warm. Provides information about temperature, explaining how it is measured, where heat comes from, how things get hot or cold, and how to stay warm. Includes an activity and glossary.
Review:
Science and Children
(N.S.T.A.) 06/01/05
Science Books & Films
(A.A.A.S.) 07/01/04
Suggestion 2:
Title: Hot, hot, hot / Neal Layton.
Publisher: Candlewick Press, 2004, c2003.
ISBN: 0-7636-2148-X
Dewey: -E-
Interest Level: K-3
Classifications: Fiction
Easy
Reading Level: 2.1
$13.59
Summary:
Nestle Smarties Book Prize, 2002. Oscar and Arabella, two woolly mammoths, try to cool off during a very hot summer.
Review:
Horn Book (July/August, 2004)
In this off-the-wall picture book, woolly mammoths
Oscar and Arabella love the Ice Age's long winter months, but suffer when summer rolls around. During one particularly unbearable heat wave, they seek relief in all the usual ways, but to no avail. "There was only one solution. They would have to give each other a haircut!"
All the other animals want in on the new look--and so does one rather wild-eyed Homo sapiens specimen, glimpsed lurking on the sidelines, who rashly drops his
Fred Flintstone-esque animal skins into a pond.

Science GPS
Suggestion 1:
Title: Magnets / by Anne Schreiber ; illustrated by
Adrian C. Sinnott.
Publisher: Grosset & Dunlap, c2003.
ISBN: 0-448-43149-1
Dewey: 538 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: K-3 Reading Level: 4.1
$7.96
rd
Summary:
Introduces different kinds of magnets, how they work, and some of the ways in which they are used.
Review:
Horn Book (Spring 2004)
Introducing magnets and magnetism, this book provides accurate information in a breezy style. The text, aided by humorous cartoon illustrations, successfully incorporates some history, scientific principles, sequenced explanations, experiments, real-life examples, and predictions into this introduction.
Suggestion 2:
Title: Magnets : sticking together / Wendy Sadler.
Publisher: Raintree, c2006.
ISBN: 1-41091-555-7
Dewey: 538
Interest Level: K-3
Classifications: Nonfiction
Reading Level: 4.5
Series: Science in your life;Raintree perspectives
$19.25
Summary:
Facts about magnets. Presents a short study of how magnets work, why the compass always points to the north, how migrating birds find they way home, and much more.
Review:
Horn Book (Spring 2006)
These books cover basic scientific principles including electricity, magnetism, sound, and force.

Science GPS
Suggestion 1:
Title: Ten worlds : everything that orbits the sun / Ken
Croswell.
Publisher: Boyds Mills Press, 2006.
ISBN: 1-59078-423-5
Dewey: 523.4 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6 Reading Level: 4.9
$16.96
rd
Summary:
The solar system's birth -- The ten planets -- The seven big moons -- The first four asteroids -- Extreme planets.
Full-color illustrated photographs of the solar system including the sun and the planets, their moons, comets, asteroids, and meteoroids that go around the sun.
Review:
Kirkus Review (April 15, 2006)
With breathtaking, beautifully reproduced images from
NASA, astronomer Croswell introduces the newest version of our solar system. Double-page spreads, or more, are devoted to the general solar system, the sun, each of the ten planets, comets, meteors and the system's birth.
Suggestion 2:
Title: Dot to dot in the sky : stories in the stars / Joan
Hinz ; illustrations by Chao Yu and Jue Wang.
Publisher: Whitecap, c2001.
ISBN: 1-55285-182-6
Dewey: 523.8 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6 Reading Level: 4.9
$15.46
Summary:
Profiles fifteen constellations, including Ursa Major and
Orion, presenting their background myths, illustrations, and instructions for finding them.
Review:
Book Report (May/June 2002)
Hinz has written a charming informative book covering the mythology, history, and science of each of 15 constellations, with hints for stargazers. Yu and Wang's drawings are clear and colorful.

Science GPS
rd
Suggestion 1:
Title: Next stop, Neptune : experiencing the solar system
/ by Alvin Jenkins ; illustrated by Steve Jenkins.
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin, 2004.
ISBN: 0-618-41603-X
Dewey: 523.2 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: K-3 Reading Level: 5.7
$13.60
Summary:
A color-illustrated journey through the solar system that profiles each planet and other celestial bodies such as the moon, asteroids, and comets, describing their sizes, atmospheres, surfaces, and unique qualities.
Review:
Kirkus Review (November 1, 2004)
A lucid description of the solar system, grounded in concepts that young readers can grasp, and exquisitely illustrated. Alvin Jenkins was a professor of astronomy, and he takes a journey that begins with the creation of a star and continues through each planet, its moons, asteroids, and other features in our immediate space.
Suggestion 2:
Title: Planets! / by the editors of Time for Kids with Lisa
Jo Rudy.
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers, c2005.
ISBN: 0-06-078202-1
Dewey: 523.4 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: K-3 Reading Level: 2.5
$12.74
Summary:
Presents a short study of the planets, where they are in relation to the sun and the earth, what they look like and what they are made of, and more.
Review:
Horn Book (Spring 2006)
This book places Earth in planetary perspective in the solar system. Inner and outer planets are grouped and discussed in the brief and informative easy-reader text.
Basic facts are provided in four simple chapters against a visually engaging backdrop of photographs, along with fact boxes and labeled diagrams.

Science GPS
th
Suggestion 1:
Title: The snowflake : a water cycle story / Neil
Waldman.
Publisher: Millbrook Press, c2003.
ISBN: 0-7613-2347-3
Dewey: 551.48 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: K-3 Reading Level: 5.3
Subjects: Hydrologic cycle.
$11.96
Summary:
Follows the journey of a water droplet through the various stages of the water cycle, from precipitation to evaporation and condensation.
Review:
Horn Book (Spring 2004)
Tracing a snowflake's journey from January to
December, from flake to droplet and back again, provides a way to explain the ever-shifting course of the water cycle. Each month and stage of the snowflake's journey is depicted on a separate double-page spread featuring calming, muted images. The inspired format and occasionally poetic text enliven and clarify a potentially confusing subject.
Suggestion 2:
Title: The water cycle / by Rebecca Olien.
Publisher: Capstone, c2005.
ISBN: 0-7368-3701-9
Dewey: 551.48 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: K-3 Reading Level: 4.5
$15.95
Summary:
Presents an explanation of the stages of the water cycle, from evaporation, to condensation, through precipitation, and describes how the water cycle impacts the earth's water supply.
Review:
Horn Book (Fall 2005)
In these launch-pad titles, simple sentences relay the most basic information about water: what it's made of, how it changes, and its different forms. Large-scale color photos give the concepts immediacy.

Science GPS
th
Suggestion 1:
Title: Weather / written and edited by Lorrie Mack.
Publisher: DK Pub., 2004.
ISBN: 0-7566-0323-4
Dewey: 551.5 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: K-3 Reading Level: 5.5
$8.49
Summary:
Presents a photographic exploration of weather, explaining what weather is; discussing the seasons and the power of the sun; looking at various weather phenomena, such as clouds, rain, wind, and snow; and including information on extreme weather, and forecasting.
Review:
Library Media Connection (February 2005)
In typical DK fashion, the titles in this series provide initial information on a variety of natural science topics for young people. Books are full of amazing color photographs that enhance understanding of the topic.
Each 2-page chapter begins with a short definition of the topic. Within each chapter there are 4 to 5 related terms, with appropriate photographs, describing various facets of the larger topic. Most pages include a "fact box" with 2 to 3 interesting facts.
Suggestion 2:
Title: Forecasting the weather / Alan Rodgers and
Angella Streluk.
Publisher: Heinemann Library, c2003.
ISBN: 1-58810-687-X
Dewey: 551.63 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6 Reading Level: 5.7
Series: Measuring the weather
$19.75
Summary:
An introduction to weather forecasting, describing some of the methods and tools used.
Review:
School Library Journal (April 1, 2003)
Gr 3-6-Excellent introductions to weather forecasting, clouds, wind, temperature, and precipitation. The books are stylish and easy to read, and have full-color photographs, fact boxes, and charts with weather symbols. Chapters are only two pages in length, but cover the subject appropriately without overwhelming readers.
Simple experiments are included in each book.

Science GPS
th
Suggestion 1:
Title: Food chains and you / Bobbie Kalman.
Publisher: Crabtree Pub. Co., c2005.
ISBN: 0-7787-1942-1
Dewey: 577 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: K-3 Reading Level: 4.5
$17.94
Summary:
Presents an introduction to the concept of the food chain, in simple text with illustrations, and explains why all living things need food, describes the energy pyramid, and examines the cycle of how food is produced and consumed.
Review:
Resource Links 04/01/05 Science Books & Films
(A.A.A.S.) 05/01/05
Suggestion 2:
Title: Food chain frenzy / written by Anne capeci ; illustrations by John Speirs.
Publisher: Scholastic, c2003.
ISBN: 0-439-56050-0
Dewey: -Fic- Classifications: Fiction
Interest Level: 3-6 Reading Level: 5.3
Series: The Magic School Bus, a science chapter book ;
#17
$9.36
Summary:
Based on the Magic School Bus books written by Joanna
Cole and illustrated by Bruce Degen"--T.p. verso. Arnold is not happy when his class goes on a food chain field trip the day his cousin Janet comes to school with him.
Review:

Science GPS
th
Suggestion 1:
Title: Aliens from Earth : when animals and plants invade other ecosystems / written by Mary Batten ; illustrated by Beverly J. Doyle.
Publisher: Peachtree, c2003.
ISBN: 1-56145-236-X
Dewey: 577
Interest Level: 3-6
Classifications: Nonfiction
Reading Level: 7.2
$13.56
Summary:
Explores how and why plants and animals enter ecosystems to which they are not native, as well as the consequences of these invasions for other animals, plants, and humans.
Review:
Kirkus Review (March 1, 2003)
The familiar starling, gypsy moth, and kudzu vine are all alien to North America, wreaking havoc on established plant and animal ecosystems and threatening biodiversity.
This visually striking and readable title describes what happens to ecosystems when alien plants or animals are introduced by accident or intention.
Suggestion 2:
Title: Survival and change / Steve Parker.
Publisher: Heinemann Library, c2001.
ISBN: 1-57572-340-9
Dewey: 578.4 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6
Series: Life processes
Reading Level: 6.9
$20.50
Summary:
Text and color photos explain how various types of living things adapt to changes in their surroundings and compete with each other to survive.
Review:
School Library Journal (July 1, 2001)
Gr 4-7-Concise introductions to the ways in which organisms adapt to environmental changes and to the scientific classification of plants and animals. Topics include speciation, survival of species under extreme conditions, species that have upset the natural balance of environments, the origin of new species, prehistoric life and fossil evidence of extinction, convergent and divergent evolution, and present-day threats to organisms and efforts to protect endangered species.

Science GPS
th
Suggestion 1:
Title: Why do some animals hibernate? / Patricia J.
Murphy.
Publisher: PowerKids Press, 2004.
ISBN: 0-8239-6232-6
Dewey: 591.56 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: K-3
$14.95
Reading Level: 3.9
Summary:
Explains what hibernation is, why and how some animals hibernate, what animals do in the winter if they don't hibernate, and how we can help animals survive the winter.
Review:
Suggestion 2:
Title: Red eyes or blue feathers : a book about animal colors / by Patricia M. Stockland ; illustrated by Todd
Ouren.
Publisher: Picture Window Books, c2005.
ISBN: 1-40480-931-7
Dewey: 591.47
Interest Level: K-3
Classifications: Nonfiction
Reading Level: 3.0
Series: Animal wise
$16.95
Summary:
Describes how various animals use their color adaptations to help them survive, including the red-eyed treefrog, the polar bear, the red fox, seahorse, killer whale, macaw, black rhinoceros, jewel beetle, and chameleon.
Review:
Science Books & Films (A.A.A.S.) 09/01/05

Science GPS
th
Suggestion 1:
Title: My light / by Molly Bang.
Publisher: Blue Sky Press, c2004.
ISBN: 0-439-48961-X
Dewey: 523.7 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: K-3 Reading Level: 3.2
$14.40
Summary:
The sun explains the different ways in which its light is transformed into energy which powers the bulbs that illuminate the night.
Review:
Horn Book starred (Fall 2004)
In a simple text, Bang tells the story of sunlight to lamplight (how energy from the sun turns into energy for electricity) from the point of view of the sun. Her paintings connect the light of the cosmos with light here on earth, and the graphic narrative details are dramatically satisfying as well as beautiful. An afterword further elucidates the concepts.
Suggestion 2:
Title: Light / by Darlene R. Stille.
Publisher: Child's World, c2005.
ISBN: 1-59296-221-1
Dewey: 535
Interest Level: 3-6
Classifications: Nonfiction
Reading Level: 5.3
$18.95
Summary:
Discusses the importance of light to life on Earth, explains where light comes from, and examines the properties, characteristics, and types of light.
Review:
Library Media Connection 04/01/05

Science GPS
th
Suggestion 1:
Title: Feel the noise! / Anna Claybourne.
Publisher: Raintree, c2006.
ISBN: 1-41091-917-X
Dewey: 534 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6
Series: Raintree fusion
Reading Level: 4.0
$19.75
Summary:
Examines what sounds are made of and how they work, and describes sound waves, vibrations and pitch, loudness and decibels.
Review:
Horn Book (Spring 2006)
Using hooks such as traveling on a beam of light from a distant star to Earth, each book introduces the featured scientific concept. The conversational tone (with vocabulary words helpfully defined on the page) partners with photographs and diagrams to bring the material down to the young researcher's level.
Suggestion 2:
Title: Perk up your ears : discover your sense of hearing /
Vicki Cobb ; illustrations by Cynthia C. Lewis.
Publisher: Millbrook Press, c2001.
ISBN: 0-7613-1981-6
Dewey: 612.8 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6
$12.16
Reading Level: 4.3
Summary:
Explains the science behind one's sense of hearing, discussing sound waves and the anatomy of the human ear, and includes experiments related to sound and humorous illustrations.
Review:
School Library Journal (April 1, 2002)
Gr 3-6-"Fun!" comes through loud and clear in this energetic exploration of hearing and auditory perception.
Cobb gets the anatomy lesson out of the way, then moves on to a series of simple activities to help kids experiment with their own sense of hearing. Students investigate sound conduction, perception of pitch, echolocation, and range of hearing by doing such things as sticking their fingers in their ears while they talk.

Science GPS
Suggestion 1:
Title: Forces and motion : from push to shove /
Christopher Cooper ; illustrations, Jeff Edwards.
Publisher: Heinemann Library, c2004.
ISBN: 1-40340-951-X
Dewey: 531 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6 Reading Level: 6.0
Series: Science answers;Heinemann infosearch
$19.75
th
Summary:
Provides information about the effects of forces and motion in the physical world, and includes a selection of related experiments.
Review:
Children's Literature
Have you ever wondered why you can lift a car weighing more than a ton off the ground by simply manipulating a jack handle? Do you really understand why a massive oil tanker can ride across the surface of the ocean without sinking? Is it clear to you what gravity really is? If the answers to these questions do not flow off your tongue with speed and surety then Forces and Motion is a book you might want to review.
Suggestion 2:
Title: Forces and motion : a question and answer book / by Catherine A. Welch.
Publisher: Capstone Press, c2006.
ISBN: 0-7368-5445-2
Dewey: 531 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6 Reading Level: 5.4
Series: Fact finders. Questions and answers. Physical science
$16.95
Summary:
Introduces the connection between force and motion and describes the effects of air resistance, mass, and gravity.
Review:

Science GPS
th
Suggestion 1:
Title: Work / by Sally M. Walker and Roseann Feldmann
; photographs by Andy King.
Publisher: Lerner, c2002.
ISBN: 0-8225-2217-9
Dewey: 531 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6 Reading Level: 3.7
Series: Early bird physics books
$18.95
Summary:
Describes work and simple machines in everyday surroundings, and presents experiments that explain how machines make work easier.
Review:
Horn Book (Spring, 2002)
An introduction to the scientific concept of "work" and the simple machines that make it easier. The book describes various types of machines and explains the scientific principles that make them function. Some simple activities are demonstrated in the pedestrian text and accompanying color photographs.
Suggestion 2:
Title: Castle under siege! / Andrew Solway.
Publisher: Raintree, c2006.
ISBN: 1-41091-918-8
Dewey: 621.8 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level:
$19.75
3-6 Reading Level: 3.8
Summary:
Presents a short study of how levers, wheels and axles, pulleys, inclined planes, wedges, and screws work, and the importance of these principles in various machines.
Review:
School Library Journal (April 1, 2006)
Gr 3-5-The author leads readers through the construction of a castle. While readers are drawn into the action, they are also introduced to the simple machines used during this period of time. The stonemason's wedge, the inclined plane of the castle road, the levers used in the drawbridge, the screw of the crossbow, the axles in the moving siege towers, the fulcrum in the catapult-these and many other terms are interspersed throughout the text. Detailed, easily interpreted diagrams are included for added understanding of concepts. Vivid and realistic photos add to the appeal.

Science GPS
th
Suggestion 1:
Title: Mauna Loa : the largest volcano in the United
States / Christine Webster.
Publisher: Weigl Publishers, c2004.
ISBN: 1-59036-040-0
Dewey: 996.9 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6 Reading Level: 5.7
$18.20
Summary:
Describes the history and characteristics of America's largest volcano, Mauna Loa in Hawaii, and explains the science of volcano formation and volcanic eruptions
Review:
School Library Journal (August 1, 2004)
Gr 3-6-These books shout "curriculum tie-in." Each volume provides information about regional plants and animals and the Native people of the area. A one-page biography of a significant explorer or naturalist, a pro and con look at a relevant "key issue," and a time line are included.
Suggestion 2:
Title: The island that moved : how shifting forces shape our Earth / Meredith Hooper ; illustrated by Lucia deLeiris.
Publisher: Viking, 2004.
ISBN: 0-670-05882-3
Dewey: 551.1 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6 Reading Level: 6.3
$14.44
Summary:
Follows an imaginary island on a journey through millions of years to introduce the science of plate tectonics.
Review:
School Library Journal (December 1, 2004)
Gr 4-6-The concept of huge portions of the Earth's crust oozing persistently up from fiery depths to slide slowly across the global surface before inexorably thrusting its way back into the world of glowing magma is tough to explain, but Hooper succeeds in doing so. She traces the birth of a composite island, following it from glowing undersea magma to its breaking away from the
Gondwanian supercontinent and its subsequent journey as an isolated isle, and the evolution of life upon its convoluted surface.

Science GPS
th
Suggestion 1:
Title: Classifying plants and animals / Lewis Parker.
Publisher: Perfection Learning, c2006.
ISBN: 0-7569-4693-X
Dewey: 570.1 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6 Reading Level: 5.6
Series: Reading essentials in science. Life science investigations
$17.95
Summary:
Presents an introduction to plant and animal classification, in simple text with illustrations.
Review 1:
Suggestion 2:
Title: Animals with backbones / Elaine Pascoe ; photographs by Dwight Kuhn.
Publisher: PowerKids Press, 2003.
ISBN: 0-8239-6310-1
Dewey: 596 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6 Reading Level: 5.5
Series: Kid's guide to the classification of living things
$16.95
Summary:
Simple text and illustrations introduce the characteristics of the major groups of vertebrates: fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals.
Review 1:
Library Media Connection (August/September 2003)
Each book in this series contains the same excellent descriptions and illustrations of the titled kingdom with a table of contents, an index, glossary, and suggested Web sites for further investigation. The text is written in simple, yet scientific terms. Photographs make the text come to life. For example, photos of molded bread and lemons in Fungi definitely illustrate the progress of mold.
If nothing else, a student at any age could learn something about fungi by just looking at the pictures.
These topics might have been too complicated for the intended audience, but the books contain clearly written explanations for elementary age students. Many teachers will be using these titles to illustrate the five different kingdoms of living things.

Science GPS
th
Suggestion 1:
Title: The world of the cell : life on a small scale / Robert
Snedden.
Publisher: Heinemann Library, c2003.
ISBN: 1-58810-676-4
Dewey: 571.6 Classifications: Nonfiction
Reading Level: 7.8 Interest Level: 5-8
Series: Cells & life
$21.96
Summary:
Presents an introduction to cells, explaining how they are put together, and how they sustain life. Includes color illustrations and a glossary.
Review:
Horn Book (Spring, 2003)
These series books offer accurate introductions to topics ranging from genetics to human organs to evolution. The books cover a lot of ground but in a fairly cursory way.
Most of the books conclude with a chart, such as an evolutionary diagram, that pulls together the information that precedes it.
Suggestion 2:
Title: Cells and systems / Holly Wallace.
Publisher: Heinemann Library, c2001.
ISBN: 1-57572-336-0
Dewey: 571 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6
Series: Life processes
Reading Level: 7.1
$20.50
Summary:
Text, color photos, and other illustrations describe plant and animal cells and systems, including--among others-the circulatory, digestive, and respiratory systems; also includes a glossary and a bibliography.
Review:
School Library Journal (August 1, 2001)
Gr 3-6-Parker describes the challenges animals and plants face in various environments and the adaptations they make to survive. Mountains, forests, grasslands, rivers, lakes, and oceans are covered, as well as polar, desert, and city habitats. Cells begins by describing animal and plant cells, and notes how some cells unite to form tissues and organs that combine to form systems that help organisms perform life processes. While Wallace discusses plants, the bulk of her book considers human systems.

Science GPS
Suggestion 1:
Title: What's living in your classroom? / Andrew
Solway.
Publisher: Heinemann Library, c2004.
ISBN: 1-40344-846-9
Dewey: 579 Classifications: Nonfiction
Reading Level: 5.9 Interest Level: 3-6
Series: Hidden life
$20.50
th
Summary:
Presents magnified photographs and information about some of the microscopic organisms that live on school books, lunches, and other parts of the school, including a look at the tiny creatures that cause colds and flu.
Review:
School Library Journal (November 1, 2004)
Gr 4-6-Numerous color photographs with captions that indicate magnification, fact boxes, and brief paragraphs introduce information about microscopes and microbiology. Bedroom discusses dust mites, bedbugs, fungi spores, and more. Classroom describes lice, bacteria, and microbes found in mud and sewage, ear mites, etc. Kitchen looks at yeasts, mold fungi, bacteria both useful and destructive, and so on.
Suggestion 2:
Title: Itty gritty critters : life between grains of sand /
Harry Breidahl ; illustrations by Rhyll Plant.
Publisher: Chelsea House Publishers, 2002, c2001.
ISBN: 0-7910-6615-0
Dewey: 579 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6 Reading Level: 6.2
Series: Life in strange places
$25.20
Summary:
Provides an introduction to meiofauna--organisms that live between the grains of sand, looks at different types of meiofauna, and discusses the technology that has allowed scientists to study the microscopic creatures.
Review:
Library Talk (January/February 2002)
Even students who never want to read will be grabbed by this series. Every two-page spread has a section devoted to photos, illustrations, or fact boxes.

Science GPS
th
Suggestion 1:
Title: Genetics / Trevor Day.
Publisher: Blackbirch Press , Thomson/Gale, c2004.
ISBN: 1-41030-301-2
Dewey: 576.5 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6
Series: Routes of science
Reading Level: 5.6
$18.96
Summary:
Presents an introduction to genetics, looking at early ideas about how parents passed characteristics to their offspring, discussing the origins of the study of genetics, and following developments in the field through the twentieth century.
Review:
School Library Journal (May 1, 2005)
Gr 4-7-These books examine their respective subjects in depth. The authors look at science as a process of discovery and explain how each discipline developed in different cultures over time. Significant names and important terms are printed in bold and circled to guide students to further information in boxed areas and sidebars.
Suggestion 2:
Title: Gregor Mendel : genetics pioneer / Della
Yannuzzi.
Publisher: Franklin Watts, c2004.
ISBN: 0-531-12263-8
Dewey: 576.5 Classifications: Biography
Nonfiction
Interest Level: 5-8
Series: Great life stories
Reading Level: 5.9
$22.88
Summary:
Discusses the life and work of Gregor Mendel, an
Austrian monk who studied heredity in plants and is considered the father of genetics.
Review:
Library Media Connection
04/01/04

Science GPS
th
Suggestion 1:
Title: Every body tells a story / text, Robert Coupe.
Publisher: Mason Crest Publishers, 2003.
ISBN: 1-59084-188-3
Dewey: 611 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6
Series: Junior adventure
Reading Level: 5.9
$17.95
Suggestion 2:
Title: From metal to airplane / by Robin Nelson.
Publisher: Lerner, c2004.
ISBN: 0-8225-1388-9
Dewey: 629.134 Classifications: Nonfiction
Reading Level: 4.6 Interest Level: K-3
Series: Start to finish
$13.95
Summary:
Explains how the different systems of the human body, including the bones, lungs, blood, and heart, work together each day.
Summary:
Briefly introduces the process by which an airplane is made from sheet metal and other parts.
Review:
Library Media Connection (March 2003)
This book illustrates the major body systems and their functions-but with unusual additions. It begins with the process of mummification, discusses early anatomy studies, and delves into the many medical procedures that have helped us discover more about our bodies. The text covers the skeletal system, the respiratory system and its functions, the circulation system, and the digestive system. There is a two-page foldout of the complete body and its systems. A glossary defines some of the basic vocabulary used in explanations of the body systems. The illustrations are clear and well-developed and -labeled.
Many small illustrations add information such as how the body swallows and processes food; the newest heart valves used in heart surgery are pictured.
Review:
Horn Book (Fall 2004)
Large photographs and brief texts characterize these books designed for beginning readers. Workers make parts -- The parts are shipped -- The body is built -- The body is painted -- The wings and tail are added -- Wheels are added -- The engines are added -- The inside is built -
- The airplane is tested -- Up, up, and away!

Science GPS
th
Suggestion 1:
Title: Solids, liquids, and gases : from ice cubes to bubbles / Carol Ballard ; illustrations, Jeff Edwards.
Publisher: Heinemann Library, c2004.
ISBN: 1-40340-955-2
Dewey: 530.4 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6 Reading Level: 5.5
Series: Science answers;Heinemann infosearch
$19.75
Summary:
Presents an examination of the three states of matter, including solid, liquid, and gas, explaining what they are, what they are made of, and how they move and change, and includes a selection of related science experiments or demonstrations.
Review:
Suggestion 2:
Title: Chemical change : from fireworks to rust / by
Darlene R. Stille.
Publisher: Compass Point Books, c2006.
ISBN: 0-7565-1256-5
Dewey: 541 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 5-8
Series: Exploring science
Reading Level: 7.9
$18.95
Summary:
Presents a short study of chemical change and includes facts on how the human body changes food into energy, how rust eats away metal, what makes fireworks, and more.
Review:
Science Books & Films (A.A.A.S.) 01/01/06

Science GPS
th
Suggestion 1:
Title: Fully charged : electricity / Steve Parker.
Publisher: Heinemann Library, c2005.
ISBN: 1-40344-813-2
Dewey: 621.3 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level:
$22.96
5-8 Reading Level: 6.7
Summary:
Describes how electricity is generated, harnessed, and used, and explains the difference between electricity, including static electricity, and electronics.
Review:
Library Media Connection
08/01/05
Science Books & Films
(A.A.A.S.) 05/01/05
Suggestion 2:
Title: Magnetism / text, Ben Morgan ; illustrations,
Darren Awuah and Mark Walker.
Publisher: Blackbirch Press , Thomson/Gale, c2003.
ISBN: 1-41030-080-3
Dewey: 538 Classifications: Nonfiction
Interest Level: 3-6 Reading Level: 6.3
Series: Elementary physics
$16.96
Summary:
Presents an introduction to magnetism, explaining what it is, and showing how the forces and properties of magnetism affect everyday life.
Review:
Library Media Connection (August/September 2004)
Great pictures and well-thought-out simple explanations of basic physics principles make this a very good elementary beginning science book. It is bright and colorful with pictures and drawings that complement the accompanying text and appeal to students. The text presents the material simply without dumbing down the ideas. This series handles many areas of physics very well.