This book was written by two veteran educators and leaders in NSTA as a support for newly-hired science teachers or science teachers entering a new grade level. The book can be used by a newly hired teacher not only for science but for any subject area, as the authors provide a great deal of general information.
The book covers topics such as the roles of teacher and team member and helping teachers find their philosophy and path. Practical tips like studying the handbook, the schedule and the inventory may seem obvious to veteran teachers but need to be said. There are sections on first day fears and celebrations, time management and appearance. Information on assessments and on parents as partners. The tips are invaluable and often underemphasized in the rush to get new employees into the classroom.
The authors include an online appendixes and internet resources that can be accessed online at nsta.org/rise and shine. NSTA Pubs will periodically update the information at the site. Some of the links are open and others require a password. There is a good variety of links and helpful resources. I would love to have had more specific mention of the role of science in the elementary classroom. Perhaps another volume is needed. The information provided is more specific to middle and high school science teachers. The organization for laboratory activities and projects the elementary level is a constant challenge, so there's good reason to look forward to another volume at a fujture date.