Reviewed by Tracy Alley
Teacher & Coordinator of Gifted Programs, Madeira City Schools & Adjunct Professor for the University of Cincinnati
This is the sort of reference that a classroom teacher will find very useful as a reference and for extension activities. It will be frequently used by students because it's clear, organized, and has great visual appeal.
The content is organized into five categories. The question-and-answer format makes the book a quick reference for students who want an answer to a question. The text has an eye-catching cover and title that will grab the attention of students (they'll especially like the textured metallic lightning bolt). In terms of sketches, I liked the minimal amount of drawings, which was fitting due to the nature of the book. However, I thought the cartoons at the beginning and end of the book needed to be changed for the audience in terms of legibility and content.
The science resource section at the back of the book offers fabulous ideas and resources for budding scientists, and the index is very helpful. The resource could be used for a review after a unit of study, to supplement a unit of study, or to extend a unit of study. It would be a fantastic book for quizzing students during the last 10 minutes of class or as a transition activity. This resource is economically friendly to teachers and has multiple purposes. Overall, it would be a great addition to any classroom library.
Review posted on 9/1/2009
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