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Social change

Captured History series

Burgan, Michael Tank Man: How a Photograph Defined China’s Protest Movement
Gr. 4–6     64 pp.     Capstone/Compass Point     2014
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7565-4731-8
Paperback ISBN 978-0-7565-4787-5

Nardo, Don Hitler in Paris: How a Photograph Shocked a World at War
Gr. 4–6   64 pp.     Capstone/Compass Point     2014
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7565-4733-2
Paperback ISBN 978-0-7565-4789-9

Cooper, Ilene A Woman in the House (and Senate): How Women Came to the United States Congress, Broke Down Barriers, and Changed the Country
Illustrated by Elizabeth Baddeley
Gr. 4–6    144 pp.    Abrams     2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-4197-1036-0

Kuklin, Susan Beyond Magenta: Transgender Teens Speak Out
High school     182 pp.     Candlewick     2014
Trade ISBN 978-0-7636-5611-9

Levy, Debbie We Shall Overcome: The Story of a Song
Illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton
Gr. K–3      32 pp.     Disney/Jump     2013
Trade ISBN 978-1-4231-1954-8

Runstedler, Nancy Pay It Forward Kids: Small Acts, Big Change
Gr. 4–6     64 pp.     Fitzhenry     2013
Trade ISBN 978-1-55455-301-3

How things work

Lightning Bolt Books: How Flight Works series

Boothroyd, Jennifer How Do Hang Gliders Work?
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Lerner     2013
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-8970-5

Boothroyd, Jennifer How Do Helicopters Work?
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Lerner     2013
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-8966-8

Boothroyd, Jennifer How Do Parachutes Work?
Gr. K–3     32 pp.      Lerner     2013
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-8968-2

Silverman, Buffy How Do Hot Air Balloons Work?
Gr. K–3     32 pp.      Lerner     2013
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-8969-9

Silverman, Buffy How Do Jets Work?
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Lerner     2013
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-8967-5

Silverman, Buffy How Do Space Vehicles Work?
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Lerner     2013
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-8971-2

Enz, Tammy The Amazing Story of Cell Phone Technology: Max Axiom STEM Adventures [Graphic Library: STEM Adventures series]
Illustrated by Pop Art Properties
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     Capstone     2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4765-0137-6
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4765-3457-2

Blazers: See How It’s Made series

Hammelef, Danielle S. Building an Airplane
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     Capstone     2014
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4765-3978-2
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4765-5118-0

Omoth, Tyler Building a Motorcycle
Gr. 4–6      32 pp.     Capstone     2014
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4765-3977-5
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4765-5117-3

Macaulay, David Toilet: How It Works [My Readers series]
With Sheila Keenan
Gr. K–3    32 pp.     Square Fish/David Macaulay Studio     2013
Trade ISBN 978-1-59643-779-1
Paperback ISBN 978-1-59643-780-7

How Does My Home Work? series

Oxlade, Chris Heating
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Heinemann     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4329-6564-8
Paperback ISBN 978-1-43296569-3

Oxlade, Chris Water
Gr. K–3      24 pp.    Heinemann     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4329-6567-9
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4329-6572-3

Indigenous cultures

Bruchac, James and Bruchac, Joseph Rabbit’s Snow Dance: A Traditional Iroquois Story
Illustrated by Jeff Newman
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Dial     2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-8037-3270-4

Charleyboy, Lisa, and Leatherdale, Mary Beth, Editors Dreaming in Indian: Contemporary Native American Voices
Middle school, high school     130 pp.     Annick     2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-55451-687-2

Ellis, Deborah Looks like Daylight: Voices of Indigenous Kids
Middle school, high school    253 pp.     Groundwood (House of Anansi Press)     2013
Trade ISBN 978-1-55498-120-5

McLaughlin, Timothy P. Walking on Earth & Touching the Sky: Poetry and Prose by Lakota Youth at Red Cloud Indian School
Illustrated by S. D. Nelson
Gr. 4–6     80 pp.     Abrams     2012
Trade ISBN 978-1-4197-0179-5

Ray, Deborah Kogan Paiute Princess: The Story of Sarah Winnemucca
Gr. 4–6     48 pp.     Farrar/Foster     2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-374-39897-2

Geography and maps

Map Smart series

Brasch, Nicolas Community Maps
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     Smart Apple     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-413-0

Brasch, Nicolas Country Maps
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     Smart Apple     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-414-7

Brasch, Nicolas Land and Sea Maps
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     Smart Apple     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-415-4

Brasch, Nicolas World Maps
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     Smart Apple     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-416-1

Pebble Books: My World series

Cane, Ella Countries in My World
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Capstone     2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4765-3122-9
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4765-3464-0

Cane, Ella Neighborhoods in My World
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Capstone     2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4765-3119-9
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4765-3461-9

Cane, Ella States in My World
Gr. K–3      24 pp.     Capstone     2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4765-3121-2
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4765-3463-3

Kralovansky, Susan What Would You Do with an Atlas? [Super SandCastle: Library Resources series]
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     ABDO     2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-606-0

Mizielinska, Aleksandra Maps
Illustrated by Daniel Mizielinski
Gr. 4–6     110 pp.     Candlewick/Big Picture     2013
Trade ISBN 978-0-7636-6896-9

Walker, Sally M. Boundaries: How the Mason-Dixon Line Settled a Family Feud & Divided a Nation
High school     202 pp.     Candlewick     2014
Trade ISBN 978-0-7636-5612-6

Medicine and the human body

Arnold, Caroline Too Hot? Too Cold?: Keeping Body Temperature Just Right
Illustrated by Annie Patterson
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Charlesbridge     2013
Trade ISBN 978-1-58059-276-6
Paperback ISBN 978-1-58089-277-3

Super Simple Body series

Halvorson, Karin Inside the Ears
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     ABDO     2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-610-7

Halvorson, Karin Inside the Eyes
Gr. K–3      32 pp.     ABDO     2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-611-4

Halvorson, Karin Inside the Heart
Gr. K–3      32 pp.     ABDO     2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-612-1

Halvorson, Karin Inside the Lungs
Gr. K–3      32 pp.     ABDO     2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-613-8

Jarrow, Gail Red Madness: How a Medical Mystery Changed What We Eat
Middle school, high school   192 pp.     Boyds/Calkins (Boyds Mills Press)     2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-59078-732-8

Murphy, Jim and Blank, Alison Invincible Microbe: Tuberculosis and the Never-Ending Search for a Cure
Gr. 4–6     149 pp.     Clarion     2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-618-53574-3

Ziefert, Harriet You Can’t See Your Bones with Binoculars!: A Book About Your 206 Bones
Illustrated by Amanda Haley
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Blue Apple     2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-60905-417-5

Ziefert, Harriet You Can’t Taste a Pickle with Your Ear!: A Book About Your 5 Senses
Illustrated by Amanda Haley
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Blue Apple     2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-60905-418-2

These titles were featured in the November 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

The post Books mentioned in the November 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book appeared first on The Horn Book.

Unexplained phenomena

Extraterrestrial Life series

Allman, Toney Are Extraterrestrials a Threat to Humankind?
Middle school, high school     80 pp.     ReferencePoint     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-60152-170-5

Kallen, Stuart A. The Search for Extraterrestrial Life
Middle school, high school     80 pp.     ReferencePoint     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-60152-171-2

Marcovitz, Hal Aliens in Pop Culture
Middle school, high school     80 pp.     ReferencePoint     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-60152-154-5

Netzley, Patricia D. Alien Encounters
Middle school, high school     80 pp.     ReferencePoint     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-60152-169-9

 Whiting, Jim UFOs
Middle school, high school     80 pp.     ReferencePoint     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-60152-172-9

Arnosky, Jim Monster Hunt: Exploring Mysterious Creatures with Jim Arnosky
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     Hyperion     2011
Trade ISBN 978-1-4231-3028-4

Everett, J. H. and Scott-Waters, Marilyn Haunted Histories: Creepy Castles, Dark Dungeons, and Powerful Palaces
Gr. 4–6     146 pp.     Holt/Ottaviano     2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-8050-8971-4

Halls, Kelly Milner Alien Investigation: Searching for the Truth About UFOs and Aliens
Gr. 4–6     64 pp.     Millbrook     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-6204-3

Unsolved Mysteries series

Pelleschi, Andrea Crop Circles
Middle school, high school     112 pp.     ABDO     2012
Library binding ISBN     978-1-61783-300-7

 Zuchora-Walske, Christine The Bermuda Triangle
Middle school, high school     112 pp.     ABDO     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-298-7

Memoir

Earl, Esther This Star Won’t Go Out: The Life & Words of Esther Grace Earl
With Lori Earl and Wayne Earl
Middle school, high school     240 pp.     Dutton     2014
Trade ISBN 978-0-525-42636-3

Ehlert, Lois The Scraps Book: Notes from a Colorful Life
Gr. K–3     72 pp.     Simon/Beach Lane     2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-4424-3571-1

Kehret, Peg Animals Welcome: A Life of Reading, Writing, and Rescue
Gr. 4–6     175 pp.     Dutton     2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-525-42399-7

K’naan  When I Get Older: The Story Behind Wavin’ Flag 
With Sol Guy; illustrated by Rudy Gutierrez
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Tundra     2012
Trade ISBN 978-1-77049-302-5

Leyson, Leon, Harran, Marilyn J. and Leyson, Elisabeth B. The Boy on the Wooden Box: How the Impossible Became Possible…on Schindler’s List
Gr. 4–6     232 pp.     Atheneum     2013
Trade ISBN 978-1-4424-9781-8 

Domestic Animals

Dog Heroes series

Goldish, Meish Science Dogs
Gr. 4–6    32 pp.     Bearport     2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61772-887-7

Goldish, Meish Shelter Dogs
Gr. 4–6    32 pp.     Bearport     2013
Library binding 978-1-61772-886-0

Green, Jen Inheritance of Traits: Why Is My Dog Bigger Than Your Dog? [Show Me Sciences series]
Gr. 4–6    32 pp.     Raintree     2014
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4329-8747-3
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4329-8754-1

My New Pet series

Johnson, Jinny Guinea Pig
Gr. K–3    24 pp.     Smart Apple     2014
Library binding ISBN 978-1-62588-029-1

Johnson, Jinny Hamster and Gerbil
Gr. K–3   24 pp.     Smart Apple     2014
Library binding ISBN 978-1-62588-030-7

Johnson, Jinny Kitten
Gr. K–3    24 pp.     Smart Apple     2014
Library binding ISBN 978-1-62588-026-0

Johnson, Jinny Puppy
Gr. K–3    24 pp.     Smart Apple    2014
Library binding ISBN 978-1-62588-027-7

Johnson, Jinny Rabbit
Gr. K–3    24 pp.     Smart Apple     2014
Library binding ISBN 978-1-62588-028-4

Horses That Help with the American Humane Association series

Spiotta-DiMare, Loren Draft Horses: Horses That Work
Gr. K–3     48 pp.     Enslow/Elementary     2014
LE ISBN 978-0-7660-4220-9

Spiotta-DiMare, Loren Performing Horses: Horses That Entertain
Gr. K–3     48 pp.     Enslow/Elementary     2014
LE ISBN 978-0-7660-4219-3

Spiotta-DiMare, Loren Police Horses: Horses That Protect
Gr. K–3     48 pp.     Enslow/Elementary     2014
LE ISBN 978-0-7660-4218-6

Spiotta-DiMare, Loren Therapy Horses: Horses That Heal
Gr. K–3     48 pp.     Enslow/Elementary     2014
LE ISBN 978-0-7660-4217-9

Animals on the Family Farm series

Stiefel, Chana Chickens on the Family Farm
24 pp. Enslow 2013
LE ISBN 978-0-7660-4204-9

Stiefel, Chana Cows on the Family Farm
24 pp. Enslow 2013. LE ISBN 978-0-7660-4205-6

Stiefel, Chana Goats on the Family Farm
24 pp. Enslow 2013. LE ISBN 978-0-7660-4206-3

Stiefel, Chana Pigs on the Family Farm
24 pp. Enslow 2013. LE ISBN 978-0-7660-4208-7

Stiefel, Chana Sheep on the Family Farm
24 pp. Enslow 2013. LE ISBN 978-0-7660-4209-4

Stiefel, Chana Turkeys on the Family Farm
24 pp. Enslow 2013. LE ISBN 978-0-7660-4207-0

Big ideas

Adler, David A. Things That Float and Things That Don’t
Illustrated by Anna Raff
Gr. K–3        32 pp.      Holiday     2013
Trade ISBN 978-0-8234-2862-5

Andregg, Michael M. Seven Billion and Counting: The Crisis in Global Population Growth
Middle school, high school    88 pp.    Twenty-First Century     2014
Library Binding ISBN 978-0-7613-6715-4

Ross, Catherine Sheldrick Shapes in Math, Science and Nature: Squares, Triangles and Circles
Gr. 4–6     192 pp.     Kids Can      2014
Illustrated by Bill Slavin
Library binding ISBN 978-1-77138-124-6

Schaefer, Lola M. Lifetime: The Amazing Numbers in Animal Lives
Gr. K–3     40 pp.     Chronicle     2013
Illustrated by Christopher Silas Neal
Trade ISBN 978-1-4521-0714-1

Zoehfeld, Kathleen Weidner Secrets of the Seasons: Orbiting the Sun in Our Backyard
Illustrated by Priscilla Lamont
Gr. K—3        40 pp.      Knopf (Random House Children’s Books)     2014
Trade ISBN 978-0-517-70994-8
Library binding ISBN 978-0-517-70995-5

Cookery

Barlow, Melissa Noodlemania!: 50 Playful Pasta Recipes
Illustrated by Alison Oliver
Gr. 4–6     112 pp.     Quirk Books     2013
Paperback ISBN 978-1-59474-617-8

Elton, Sarah Starting from Scratch: What You Should Know About Food and Cooking
Illustrated by Jeff Kulak
Middle school, high school      96 pp.     Owlkids      2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-926973-96-8

Yummy Tummy Recipes: Seasons series

LaPenta, Marilyn Fall Shakes to Harvest Bakes
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Bearport      2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61772-742-9

LaPenta, Marilyn Spring Spreads to “Nutty” Breads
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Bearport      2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61772-744-3

LaPenta, Marilyn Summer Sips to “Chill” Dips
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Bearport      2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61772-741-2

LaPenta, Marilyn Winter Punches to Nut Crunches
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Bearport      2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61772-743-6

Checkerboard How-To Library: Cool Young Chefs series

Wagner, Lisa Cool Backyard Grilling: Beyond the Basics for Kids Who Cook
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO      2014
Library binding ISBN 978-1-62403-085-7

Wagner, Lisa Cool Best-Ever Brunches: Beyond the Basics for Kids Who Cook
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO      2014
Library binding ISBN 978-1-62403-086-4

Wagner, Lisa Cool Cooking Up Chili: Beyond the Basics for Kids Who Cook
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO      2014
Library binding ISBN 978-1-62403-087-1

Wagner, Lisa Cool Game Day Parties: Beyond the Basics for Kids Who Cook
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO      2014
Library binding ISBN 978-1-62403-088-8

Walton, Ruth Let’s Bake a Cake [Let's Find Out series]
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Sea to Sea      2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59771-386-3

These titles were featured in the September 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

The post Books mentioned in the October 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book appeared first on The Horn Book.

Goldish, Meish Science Dogs
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     Bearport

Goldish, Meish Shelter Dogs
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.      Bearport

Dog Heroes series. These series entries introduce two types of “dog heroes”: in Science, dogs are studied to aid beneficial scientific discoveries and innovations; Shelter discusses how unwanted dogs can go on to do remarkable things for humans after they’re adopted. The volumes are accessible, with numerous photographs and interesting personal anecdotes rounding out the texts. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.
Subjects: Domestic Animals; Pets; Animals—Dogs; Animal shelters; Scientists; Science

Green, Jen Inheritance of Traits: Why Is My Dog Bigger Than Your Dog?
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     Raintree

Show Me Sciences series. In a successful series entry, Green walks us through the “Ultimate Pet Show,” describing how dogs, cats, and horses evolved from the wild and are bred to encourage the emergence of certain traits in each species’ breeds. Explanations are clear, specific, and supported by simple diagrams and engaging photos of our animal companions. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Domestic Animals; Genetics; Animals—Horses; Animals—Cats; Animals—Dogs; Pets

Johnson, Jinny Guinea Pig
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Smart Apple

Johnson, Jinny Hamster and Gerbil
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Smart Apple

Johnson, Jinny Kitten
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Smart Apple

Johnson, Jinny Puppy
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Smart Apple

Johnson, Jinny Rabbit
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Smart Apple

My New Pet series. Young children learn what it takes to care for a new pet. Large print and a combination of photos and drawings of familiar critters present the responsibilities — providing food, water, a place for sleeping and play, gentle handling, regular attention, and veterinary care. The books are narrated simply in the first-person voice of a child; a few notes for parents wrap things up. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Domestic Animals; Animals—Dogs; Animals—Rabbits; Animals—Cats; Animals—Guinea pigs; Animals—Hamsters; Animals—Gerbils; Pets

Spiotta-DiMare, Loren Draft Horses: Horses That Work
Gr. 4–6     48 pp.     Enslow/Elementary

Spiotta-DiMare, Loren Performing Horses: Horses That Entertain
Gr. 4–6     48 pp.     Enslow/Elementary

Spiotta-DiMare, Loren Police Horses: Horses That Protect
Gr. 4–6     48 pp.     Enslow/Elementary

Spiotta-DiMare, Loren Therapy Horses: Horses That Heal
Gr. 4–6     48 pp.     Enslow/Elementary

Horses That Help with the American Humane Association series. Examining horses that work as performers, with police, pulling plows and wagons, and in therapeutic environments, these volumes address the history of horses doing such work, breeds, training, the work itself, and horse retirement. The conversational writing, plentiful examples, and occasional references to the author’s own horse keep things engaging. Photos and “Fast Fact” sidebars enliven the design. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Domestic Animals; Animals—Horses; Police officers

Stiefel, Chana Chickens on the Family Farm
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Enslow

Stiefel, Chana Cows on the Family Farm
Gr. K–3      24 pp.     Enslow

Stiefel, Chana Goats on the Family Farm
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Enslow

Stiefel, Chana Pigs on the Family Farm
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Enslow

Stiefel, Chana Sheep on the Family Farm
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Enslow

Stiefel, Chana Turkeys on the Family Farm
Gr. K–3      24 pp.      Enslow

Animals on the Family Farm series. One family’s farm is the setting for these six simple books about domestic animals. In each volume, a conversational text and colorful photos briefly cover basics: what the animal eats, where it lives (coop, pen, etc.), differences between males and females (size, coloring), care of young, and what it’s raised for (eggs, cheese, meat). Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Domestic Animals; Farms and farm life; Animals–Chickens; Animals—Cows; Animals—Goats; Animals—Pigs; Animals—Sheep; Animals—Turkeys

From the October 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

The post Domestic animals appeared first on The Horn Book.

Barlow, Melissa Noodlemania!: 50 Playful Pasta Recipes
Gr. 4–6     112 pp.     Quirk Books

Illustrated by Alison Oliver. Sections named for pasta shapes (“Twisted & Twirly,” “Wheels & Whatever”) contain recipes that use common ingredients and simple techniques with the usual caveat about grown-up help. Appetizing full-color photos show final products. Pasta trivia, creative cooking tips, and “fun facts” are scattered throughout. A chart suggesting substitutions, such as ravioli instead of tortellini, is a clever addition. Ind.
Subjects: Cookery and Nutrition; Food

Elton, Sarah Starting from Scratch: What You Should Know About Food and Cooking
Middle school, high school      96 pp.     Owlkids

Illustrated by Jeff Kulak. Although this book includes some recipes, it’s not a cookbook. Elton explores why we cook, how our senses contribute to food preferences, how culture and history affect food choices, and more. The lively prose is accompanied by stylized illustrations, charts, activities, and other graphics. A “guide to flavor pairing” and a measurement conversion chart are appended. Ind.
Subjects: Cookery and Nutrition; Food

LaPenta, Marilyn Fall Shakes to Harvest Bakes
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Bearport

LaPenta, Marilyn Spring Spreads to “Nutty” Breads
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Bearport

LaPenta, Marilyn Summer Sips to “Chill” Dips
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Bearport

LaPenta, Marilyn Winter Punches to Nut Crunches
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Bearport

Yummy Tummy Recipes: Seasons series. Corny titles and static illustrations aside, these cookbooks are something fresh for kids. With seasonal ingredients — pumpkin and cranberry for fall, peach and melon for summer, etc. — they offer enticing and healthy dishes that are perfect for holiday celebrations and generally enjoying each season. Sidebars present health tips, and directions are simple to follow and relatively concise. Reading list. Bib., glos., ind.
Subjects: Cookery and Nutrition; Seasons—Autumn; Seasons—Summer; Seasons—Spring; Seasons—Winter; Food; Bakers and baking

Wagner, Lisa Cool Backyard Grilling: Beyond the Basics for Kids Who Cook
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO

Wagner, Lisa Cool Best-Ever Brunches: Beyond the Basics for Kids Who Cook
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO

Wagner, Lisa Cool Cooking Up Chili: Beyond the Basics for Kids Who Cook
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO

Wagner, Lisa Cool Game Day Parties: Beyond the Basics for Kids Who Cook
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO

Checkerboard How-To Library: Cool Young Chefs series. Each volume emphasizes characteristics of being a good cook (efficiency, creativity, organization, etc.); introduces a cooking technique and safety guidelines; and includes nine not-too-difficult, kid-appealing recipes—caramelized onion dip, black bean chili, breakfast bakes, kebabs, and more—with variations. Clear step-by-step directions include helpful color photos. There is some boilerplate repetition across the useful, accessible series. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Cookery and Nutrition; Food

Walton, Ruth Let’s Bake a Cake
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Sea to Sea

Let’s Find Out series. Beginning with a birthday cake baked at Grandma’s (recipe appended), this book explores the origin and processing of the ingredients: sugar, butter, eggs, wheat, and chocolate. Walton generally makes sound choices about coverage for these broad topics, along with occasional advocacy for organic, fair-trade products. Collage-style illustrations and captioned photos help clarify the wide-ranging (and haphazardly organized) subjects. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Cookery and Nutrition; Bakers and baking

From the October 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

The post Cookery appeared first on The Horn Book.

Adler, David A. Things That Float and Things That Don’t
Gr. K–3        32 pp.      Holiday

Illustrated by Anna Raff. Adler expertly teaches the concept of density, moving beyond classic floating and sinking experiments to a carefully constructed lesson that helps young thinkers appreciate both scientific explanations and practices. The concepts are kept simple and age appropriate, without shying away from the more abstract dimensions of science. Cartoonlike illustrations portray two children and their curious dog happily doing science.
Subjects: Physics and Chemistry; Water; Vehicles—Boats and boating

Andregg, Michael M. Seven Billion and Counting: The Crisis in Global Population Growth
Middle school, high school    88 pp.    Twenty-First Century

This book is chock-full of sobering statistics on human population growth. Andregg explains demographic basics, then how numbers are affected by the interplay of politics, religion, depletion of natural resources, poverty, education, and access to health care such as birth control. Photos and graphs extend the rich, thought-provoking text. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.
Subjects: Social Issues; Population

Ross, Catherine Sheldrick Shapes in Math, Science and Nature: Squares, Triangles and Circles
Gr. 4–6     192 pp.     Kids Can

Illustrated by Bill Slavin. Upper-elementary math fans (and teachers) will enjoy the many hands-on activities in this compilation of Ross and Slavin’s three earlier books about squares, triangles, and circles—and their related solid shapes. Numerous details (historical, architectural, geographical, etc.) are woven in among the projects and games—some of which are quite challenging (e.g., making a sundial). Chapters include diagrams and cartoonlike illustrations. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Mathematics; Mathematics—Geometry

Schaefer, Lola M. Lifetime: The Amazing Numbers in Animal Lives
Gr. K–3     40 pp.     Chronicle

Illustrated by Christopher Silas Neal. The concept of quantity is cleverly examined in the context of animal lives. Schaefer presents the number of times an animal “performs one behavior” in its lifetime, starting with the single egg sac spun by a spider, up to the thousand babies carried by a male seahorse. Bold and beautifully composed, Neal’s retro illustrations contain the actual number of items mentioned. Supplemental information is appended.
Subjects: Natural History; Animals; Biology

Zoehfeld, Kathleen Weidner Secrets of the Seasons: Orbiting the Sun in Our Backyard
Gr. K—3        40 pp.      Knopf

Illustrated by Priscilla Lamont. Alice and friends from Secrets of the Garden return to enjoy her nature-filled backyard. This time, she learns to notice and welcome differences in weather, plants, and animal life in each of the four seasons of the temperate northern hemisphere. Throughout, airy pen and watercolor illustrations make the appeal of nature accessible to even the youngest readers.
Subjects: Earth Science; Astronomy—Sun; Seasons; Nature

From the October 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

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The post Big ideas appeared first on The Horn Book.

Earl, Esther This Star Won’t Go Out: The Life & Words of Esther Grace Earl
Middle school, high school     240 pp.     Dutton

With Lori Earl and Wayne Earl. John Green dedicated The Fault in Our Stars to Esther Earl, who, in her own words, “went through a life changing experience known as Thyroid Cancer.” This posthumous collection (with a moving introduction by Green) gathers her musings and drawings, which span her illness. Reflections by family and friends both before and after Esther’s death at sixteen are also included. An ultimately hopeful offering.
Subjects: Individual Biographies; Women—Biographies; Diseases—Cancer; Autobiographies; Women—Autobiographies; Children’s writings; Illness; Death

Ehlert, Lois The Scraps Book: Notes from a Colorful Life
K–3     72 pp.     Simon/Beach Lane

In a generously illustrated picture-book memoir, Ehlert speaks directly to her audience, particularly readers who like collecting objects and making things. The book is jam-packed with Ehlert’s art and photos from her life: her parents, the house she grew up in, and the small table where she was encouraged to pursue her art; along the way, we see how autobiographical her books have been.
Subjects: Visual Arts; Artists; Illustrators; Autobiographies; Women—Autobiographies; Women—Artists; Biographies; Women—Biographies

Kehret, Peg Animals Welcome: A Life of Reading, Writing, and Rescue
Gr. 4–6     175 pp.     Dutton

Animals typically play important roles in Kehret’s fiction. In this memoir, readers see what a major role they play in her life. Living on a protected preserve, Kehret quietly rescues many feral, abandoned, and lost animals. Without undue drama, episodic chapters describe many such events, introducing the real-life models of many of her fictional animal characters.
Subjects: Individual Biographies; Animals; Women—Autobiographies; Autobiographies; Authors; Women—Authors; Women—Biographies

K’naan  When I Get Older: The Story Behind Wavin’ Flag 
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Tundra

With Sol Guy. Illustrated by Rudy Gutierrez. K’naan is an acclaimed Somali-Canadian rap artist, poet, and songwriter, and his “Wavin’ Flag” was the anthem of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. This distilled autobiography chronicles his childhood: first in civil war–ravaged Somalia, then in Toronto as a refugee, and how “music made [him] safe” through it all. Gutierrez’s art has an intense, graffiti-like energy. Music, lyrics, and a note on Somalia are appended.
Subjects: Individual Biographies; Poets; Music—Rap music; Somalia; Canada; Songs; Autobiographies; Refugees; Black Canadians; Musicians

Leyson, Leon, Harran, Marilyn J. and Leyson, Elisabeth B. The Boy on the Wooden Box: How the Impossible Became Possible…on Schindler’s List
Gr. 4–6     232 pp.     Atheneum

Leon Leyson (born Leib Lejzon in 1929) acknowledges that he was “an unlikely survivor of the Holocaust,” saved from extermination by his father’s lucky place in Oskar Schindler’s Kraków factory. Leyson’s account of his childhood in pre-war Poland and under the Nazi occupation stands out for its brisk and unsentimental style and for its human scale. The tone is forthright and almost grandfatherly. Websites.
Subjects: Individual Biographies; Nazism; Schindler, Oskar; History, Modern—Holocaust; Autobiographies; Poland; Jews

From the October 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

The post Memoir appeared first on The Horn Book.

Allman, Toney Are Extraterrestrials a Threat to Humankind?
Middle school, high school     80 pp.     ReferencePoint

Kallen, Stuart A. The Search for Extraterrestrial Life
Middle school, high school     80 pp.     ReferencePoint

Marcovitz, Hal Aliens in Pop Culture
Middle school, high school     80 pp.     ReferencePoint

Netzley, Patricia D. Alien Encounters
Middle school, high school     80 pp.     ReferencePoint

Whiting, Jim UFOs
Middle school, high school     80 pp.     ReferencePoint

Extraterrestrial Life series. The notions of aliens as fact and fiction and the basis for their existence (or lack thereof) are recounted in painstaking detail in this series. The books are generally accessible; for some (especially Search), strong interest and aptitude in astronomy and physics would help comprehension. Occasional drawings and photographs, along with sidebars, help liven up these textbooklike volumes. Reading list, websites. Ind.
Subjects: Parapsychology; Extraterrestrial beings; Unidentified flying objects

Arnosky, Jim Monster Hunt: Exploring Mysterious Creatures with Jim Arnosky
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     Hyperion

Inviting readers to join him on a “monster hunt,” Arnosky ponders the existence of “mysterious creatures” and compares real animals once thought to be folkloric (or extinct) with legendary creatures Bigfoot, Nessie, and Champ from Lake Champlain. Characteristic Arnosky illustrations support a conversational narrative that questions what’s real or possible, making this a friendly outing intended to inspire further research. Resources not included.
Subjects: Parapsychology; Monsters

Everett, J. H. and Scott-Waters, Marilyn Haunted Histories: Creepy Castles, Dark Dungeons, and Powerful Palaces
Gr. 4–6     146 pp.     Holt/Ottaviano

This book is a collection of stories, trivia, maps, and drawings of various haunted locations—castles, dungeons and jails, palaces, and graveyards—throughout history. Reluctant readers will appreciate the short entries, snarky narrator, and varied format, while those with a taste for horror will find fascinating, rarely covered material here (e.g., “Top Ten Torture Devices”). Reading list, timeline, websites. Ind.
Subjects: Parapsychology; Supernatural—Ghosts; Haunted houses; History, World; Supernatural—Horror stories

Halls, Kelly Milner Alien Investigation: Searching for the Truth About UFOs and Aliens
Gr. 4–6     64 pp.     Millbrook

With a surprisingly evenhanded tone, this book uses an interest in aliens to inspire scientific inquiry. It discusses the history of UFO sightings, crashes, and hoaxes, providing thoroughly researched, factual information while remaining nonjudgmental about unexplained phenomena. A fictionalized thread of an alien mission is interspersed with the nonfiction. The author’s interviews with experts and witnesses are particularly insightful. Websites. Bib., glos., ind.
Subjects: Parapsychology; Extraterrestrial beings; Unidentified flying objects; Space

Pelleschi, Andrea Crop Circles
Middle school, high school     112 pp.     ABDO

Zuchora-Walske, Christine The Bermuda Triangle
Middle school, high school     112 pp.     ABDO

Unsolved Mysteries series. Archival photographs, sidebars, and maps combine with a straightforward text to present thought-provoking examinations of these “unsolved” phenomena. Theories and possible explanations along with myths and current debates provide a comprehensive discussion. The concluding “Tools and Clues” feature includes a list of equipment used to investigate crop circles and a summary of popular explanations for the Bermuda Triangle. Reading list, timeline. Bib., glos., ind.
Subjects: Parapsychology; Extraterrestrial beings; Bermuda Triangle

From the October 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

The post Unexplained phenomena appeared first on The Horn Book.

All about animals

Did You Know? series

DiSiena, Laura Lyn and Eliot, Hannah Chickens Don’t Fly: And Other Fun Facts
Illustrated by Pete Oswald
Gr. K–3      32 pp.      Little Simon      2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-4424-9353-7
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4424-9326-1
E-book ISBN 978-1-4424-9327-8

DiSiena, Laura Lyn and Eliot, Hannah Hippos Can’t Swim: And Other Fun Facts
Illustrated by Pete Oswald
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Little Simon     2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-4424-9352-0
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4424-9324-7
E-book ISBN 978-1-4424-9325-4

Jenkins, Steve The Animal Book: A Collection of the Fastest, Fiercest, Toughest, Cleverest, Shyest — and Most Surprising — Animals on Earth
Gr. 4–6      208 pp.      Houghton      2013
Trade ISBN 978-0-547-55799-1

Johnson, Jinny Animal Planet Atlas of Animals
Gr. 4–6      128 pp.      Millbrook      2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4677-1327-6

Johnson, Jinny Animal Planet Wild World: An Encyclopedia of Animals
Gr. 4–6      132 pp.      Millbrook      2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4677-1597-3

American Museum of Natural History Easy Readers series

Roop, Connie, and Roop, Peter Extreme Survivors
Gr. K-3      32 pp.      Sterling      2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-4549-0631-5
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4027-7791-2

Stewart, Melissa World’s Fastest Animals
Gr. K-3      32 pp.      Sterling      2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-4549-0633-9
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4027-7793-6

Think About series

Ziefert, Harriet Does a Bear Wear Boots?
Illustrated by Emily Bolam
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Blue Apple     2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-60905-424-3

Ziefert, Harriet Does a Beaver Sleep in a Bed?
Illustrated by Emily Bolam
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Blue Apple     2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-60905-423-6

Ziefert, Harriet Does a Camel Cook Spaghetti?
Illustrated by Emily Bolam
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Blue Apple     2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-60905-422-9

Ziefert, Harriet Does a Panda Go to School?
Illustrated by Emily Bolam
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Blue Apple     2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-60905-421-2

Ziefert, Harriet Does a Woodpecker Use a Hammer?
Illustrated by Emily Bolam
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Blue Apple     2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-60905-428-1

Disasters

Goldsmith, Connie Bombs over Bikini: The World’s First Nuclear Disaster
Middle school, high school     88 pp.     Twenty-First Century     2014
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4677-1612-3

Hopkinson, Deborah Titanic: Voices from the Disaster
Gr. 4–6     290 pp.      Scholastic      2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-545-11674-9

Rusch, Elizabeth Eruption!: Volcanoes and the Science of Saving Lives [Scientists in the Field series]
Photographs by Tom Uhlman
Gr. 4–6     76 pp.      Houghton      2013
Trade ISBN 978-0-547-50350-9

Rustad, Martha E. H. Hurricanes [Smithsonian Little Explorer series]
Gr. K-3     32 pp.      Capstone      2014
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4765-3932-4
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4765-5180-7

Sheinkin, Steve The Port Chicago 50: Disaster, Mutiny, and the Fight for Civil Rights
Middle school, high school     190 pp.     Roaring Brook     2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-59643-796-8

Performing artists

Cardillo, Margaret Just Being Audrey
Illustrated by Julia Denos
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     HarperCollins/Balzer + Bray     2011
Trade ISBN 978-0-06-185283-1

Cline-Ransome, Lesa Benny Goodman & Teddy Wilson: Taking the Stage as the First Black-and-White Jazz Band in History
Illustrated by James E. Ransome
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Holiday     2014
Trade ISBN 978-0-8234-2362-0

Ko, Alex Alex Ko: From Iowa to Broadway, My Billy Elliot Story
Gr. 4–6     328 pp.     HarperCollins/Harper     2013
Trade ISBN 978-0-06-223601-2

Powell, Patricia Hruby Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker
Illustrated by Christian Robinson
Gr.  4–6      104 pp.      Chronicle      2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-4521-0314-3

Robertson, Robbie, Jim Guerinot, Sebastian Robertson, and Jared Levine Legends, Icons & Rebels: Music That Changed the World
Middle school, high school      128 pp.      Tundra         2013
Trade ISBN 978-1-77049-571-5

Careers and community helpers

Inside the Industry series

Buckley, A. M. The Arts
Middle school, high school     112 pp.     ABDO     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61714-797-5

Freese, Susan M. Fashion
Middle school, high school     112 pp.     ABDO     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61714-800-2

Hamen, Susan E. Engineering
Middle school, high school     112 pp.      ABDO     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61714-798-2

Lusted, Marcia Amidon Entertainment
Middle school, high school       112 pp.     ABDO     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61714-799-9

Curtis, Jennifer Keats Animal Helpers: Wildlife Rehabilitators
Gr. K–3      32 pp.      Sylvan Dell     2012
Trade ISBN 978-1-60718-671-7
Paperback ISBN 978-1-60718-672-4

Work of Heroes: First Responders in Action series

Goldish, Meish Doctors to the Rescue
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     Bearport     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61772-285-1

Goldish, Meish Firefighters to the Rescue
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     Bearport     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61772-284-4

White, Nancy Paramedics to the Rescue
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     Bearport     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61772-282-0

White, Nancy Police Officers to the Rescue
Gr. 4–6      32 pp.     Bearport     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61772-283-7

Oxlade, Chris, and Thea Feldman [Kingfisher Readers series]
Gr. K–3     32 pp.      Kingfisher/Macmillan      2014
Trade ISBN 978-0-7534-7122-7
Paperback ISBN 978-0-7534-7123-4

Rhatigan, Joe People You Gotta Meet Before You Grow Up: Get to Know the Movers and Shakers, Heroes and Hot Shots in Your Hometown
Gr. 4–6      128 pp.      Charlesbridge/Imagine      2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-62354-004-3

After–school activities

Edge Books: Magic Manuals series

Barnhart, Norm Dazzling Card Tricks
Gr. 4–6      32 pp.      Capstone      2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4765-0133-8

Barnhart, Norm Marvelous Money Tricks
Gr. 4–6        32 pp.      Capstone      2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4765-0134-5

Snap Books: Paint It series

Bolte, Mari Oil Paints
Gr. 4–6      32 pp.      Capstone      2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4765-3110-6

Bolte, Mari Watercolors
Gr. 4–6      32 pp.      Capstone      2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4765-3108-3

Brown, Peggy The Little Golden Book of Jokes and Riddles
Illustrated by David Sheldon
Gr. K–3      24 pp.      Golden      2013
Trade ISBN 978-0-307-97916-2

Essential Critiques series

Hamen, Susan E. How to Analyze the Films of the Coen Brothers
Middle school, high school      112 pp.      ABDO    2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-454-7

Hermansson, Casie How to Analyze the Films of Clint Eastwood
Middle school, high school      112 pp.      ABDO      2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-453-0

Kidd, Chip Go: A Kidd’s Guide to Graphic Design
Middle school, high school      160 pp.      Workman      2013
Trade ISBN 978-0-7611-7219-2

These titles were featured in the September 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

The post Books mentioned in the September 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book appeared first on The Horn Book.

Folklore

Duffy, Chris, Editor Fairy Tale Comics
Gr. K–3    128 pp.     Roaring Brook/First Second    2013
Trade ISBN 978-1-59643-823-1

Goldman, Judy Whiskers, Tails & Wings: Animal Folktales from Mexico
Illustrated by Fabricio VandenBroeck
Gr. 4–6    58 pp.    Charlesbridge    2013
Trade ISBN 978-1-58089-372-5

Lee, H. Chuku, Reteller Beauty and the Beast
Illustrated by Pat Cummings
Gr. K–3    32 pp.    HarperCollins/Amistad    2014
Trade ISBN 978-0-688-14819-5

McHugh, Maura Twisted Fairy Tales: 20 Classic Stories with a Dark and Dangerous Heart
Illustrated by Jane Laurie
Middle school, high school    144 pp.    Barron’s    2013
Trade ISBN 978-0-7641-6588-7

Munduruku, Daniel Amazonia: Indigenous Tales from Brazil
Illustrated by Nikolai Popov
Gr. 4–6, middle school    95 pp.    Groundwood (House of Anansi Press)    2013
Trade ISBN 978-1-55498-185-4

Insects and Arachnids

Arnosky, Jim Creep and Flutter: The Secret World of Insects and Spiders
Gr. 4–6    40 pp.    Sterling    2012
Trade ISBN 978-1-4027-7766-0

Burns, Loree Griffin Handle with Care: An Unusual Butterfly Journey
Photographs by Ellen Harasimowicz
Gr. K–3    32 pp.    Millbrook    2014
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-9342-9
E-book ISBN 978-1-4677-2542-2

Huber, Raymond Flight of the Honey Bee
Illustrated by Brian Lovelock
Gr. K–3    32 pp.    Candlewick    2013
Trade ISBN 978-0-7636-6760-3

Lasky, Kathryn Silk & Venom: Searching for a Dangerous Spider
Gr. 4–6, middle school    64 pp.    Candlewick    2011
Trade ISBN 978-0-7636-4222-8
Photographs by Christopher G. Knight

Pringle, Laurence Scorpions!: Strange and Wonderful
Illustrated by Meryl Henderson
Gr. 4–6    32 pp.    Boyds    2013
Trade ISBN 978-1-59078-473-0

Oceanography

Butterworth, Chris See What a Seal Can Do
Illustrated by Kate Nelms
PS–Gr. 3    32 pp.    Candlewick    2013
Trade ISBN 978-0-7636-6574-6

Hibbert, Clare If You Were a Shark [If You Were A... series]
Gr. K–3    32 pp.    Smart Apple    2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-962-3

Simon, Seymour Seymour Simon’s Extreme Oceans
Gr. 4–6    57 pp.    Chronicle    2013
Trade ISBN 978-1-4521-0833-9

Swinburne, Stephen R. The Sea Turtle Scientist [Scientists in the Field series]
Gr. 4–6, middle school    65 pp.    Houghton    2013
Trade ISBN 978-0-547-36755-2

Turner, Pamela S. The Dolphins of Shark Bay [Scientists in the Field series]
Photographs by Scott Tuason
Gr. 4–6, middle school    76 pp.    Houghton    2013
Trade ISBN 978-0-547-71638-1

Gardening and outdoor discovery

Ancona, George It’s Our Garden: From Seeds to Harvest in a School Garden
Gr. K–3    48 pp.    Candlewick    2013
Trade ISBN 978-0-7636-5392-7

Berkes, Marianne What’s in the Garden?
Illustrated by Cris Arbo
Gr. K–3    32 pp.    Dawn    2013
Trade ISBN 978-1-58469-189-1

Burns, Loree Griffin Citizen Scientists: Be a Part of Scientific Discovery from Your Own Backyard
Photographs by Ellen Harasimowicz
Gr. 4–6    80 pp.    Holt    2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-8050-9062-8

Grow Your Own series

Lanz, Helen Lettuce
Gr. 4–6   32 pp.    Sea to Sea    2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59771-311-5

Lanz, Helen Potatoes
Gr. 4–6      32 pp.    Sea to Sea    2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59771-312-2

Lanz, Helen Strawberries
Gr. 4–6    32 pp.    Sea to Sea    2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59771-313-9

Lanz, Helen Tomatoes
Gr. 4–6    32 pp.    Sea to Sea    2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59771-314-6

Root, Phyllis Plant a Pocket of Prairie
Illustrated by Betsy Bowen
Gr. K–3    40 pp.    Minnesota    2014
Trade ISBN 978-0-8166-7980-5

Sports and recreation

Girls’ SportsZone series

Hudson, Maryann Girls’ Golf
Gr. 4–6    48 pp.    ABDO    2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-985-6

Lawrence, Blythe Girls’ Gymnastics
Gr. 4–6    48 pp.    ABDO    2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-986-3

Peters, Chris Girls’ Hockey
Gr. 4–6      48 pp.    ABDO    2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-987-0

Williams, Doug Girls’ Basketball
Gr. 4–6    48 pp.    ABDO    2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-984-9

McClafferty, Carla Killough Fourth Down and Inches: Concussions and Football’s Make-or-Break Moment
Middle school, high school     96 pp.    Carolrhoda    2013
Trade ISBN 978-1-4677-1067-1

Mulder, Michelle Pedal It!: How Bicycles Are Changing the World [Orca Footprints series]
Gr. 4–6    48 pp.    Orca    2013
Trade ISBN 978-1-4598-0219-3

First Step Nonfiction: Sports Are Fun! series

Nelson, Robin Baseball Is Fun!
Gr. K–3   24 pp.    Lerner    2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4677-1101-2

Nelson, Robin Basketball Is Fun!
Gr. K–3    24 pp.    Lerner    2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4677-1744-1

Nelson, Robin Dance Is Fun!
Gr. K–3    24 pp.    Lerner    2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4677-1104-3

Nelson, Robin Football Is Fun!
Gr. K–3    24 pp.    Lerner    2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4677-1746-5

Nelson, Robin Soccer Is Fun
Gr. K–3    24 pp.    Lerner    2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4677-1105-0

Nelson, Robin Swimming Is Fun!
Gr. K–3    24 pp.    Lerner    2013
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4677-1106-7

Rosenstock, Barb The Streak: How Joe DiMaggio Became America’s Hero
Illustrated by Terry Widener
Gr. K–3    32 pp.    Boyds/Calkins    2014
Trade ISBN 978-1-59078-992-6

These titles were featured in the May 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

The post Books mentioned in the May 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book appeared first on The Horn Book.

Arnosky, Jim Creep and Flutter: The Secret World of Insects and Spiders
Gr. 4–6   40 pp. Sterling

This introductory volume encourages readers to be “mindful of the small.” Arnosky highlights specimens in labeled groupings that he presents — textually and visually — in accurate, captivating, and even tender detail. Conversational prose is illustrated with the author’s own acrylic and pencil art, some “supersized,” with magnification scale noted. The information-rich layouts are attractively designed; several foldouts enable expansive viewing. Reading list.
Subjects: Insects and Invertebrates; Animals—Insects; Animals—Spiders

Burns, Loree Griffin Handle with Care: An Unusual Butterfly Journey
Gr. K–3   32 pp. Millbrook

Photographs by Ellen Harasimowicz. An explanation of the life cycle of butterflies gets an intriguing twist in this account of the work of a Costa Rican butterfly farm, where blue morpho butterflies are raised and the pupae eventually shipped to museums for display and observation. Detailed discussion of each life stage is accompanied by wonderfully sharp, close-up photographs that show intricate structural details. Reading list. Bib., glos., ind.
Subjects: Insects and Invertebrates; Animals—Butterflies; Animals—Caterpillars; Costa Rica; Farms and farm life; Metamorphosis

Huber, Raymond Flight of the Honey Bee
Gr. K–3   32 pp. Candlewick

Illustrated by Brian Lovelock. As the hive prepares for winter, worker bee Scout embarks on a food-foraging expedition, searching for enough nectar and pollen to survive. Huber’s simple but dynamic language hums with an avian vibrancy. In Lovelock’s watercolor, acrylic ink, and colored-pencil illustrations, splattered dots represent pollen and hailstones; textured brushstrokes convey flight patterns, vibrating wings, and pelting rain. A satisfying early science book. Ind.
Subjects: Insects and Invertebrates; Animals—Bees; Animals—Honeybees

Lasky, Kathryn Silk & Venom: Searching for a Dangerous Spider
Gr. 4–6, middle school  64 pp. Candlewick

Photographs by Christopher G. Knight. Lasky shadows arachnologist Greta Binford as she investigates Loxosceles spiders. The text attentively explains the research in absorbing detail, clearly showing how each piece of data provides evidence for the species’ migration and evolution. This care extends to the numerous photographs and diagrams that portray Binford’s meticulous research techniques, the spiders themselves, and the people who find them fascinating. Websites. Bib., glos., ind.
Subjects: Insects and Invertebrates; Animals—Spiders; Scientists; Women—Scientists

Pringle, Laurence Scorpions!: Strange and Wonderful
Gr. 4–6   32 pp. Boyds

Illustrated by Meryl Henderson. Pringle cuts through misconceptions about scorpions with no-nonsense factual information. Scorpion range and habitats, hunting and feeding behaviors, and reproduction are explored. Pringle also provides explanations of scorpion body structures, including the mesmerizing, stinger-tipped tail. Numerous delicate, detailed paintings of scorpions include field guide–like illustrations of single specimens as well as portrayals of the scorpions interacting with other animals. Websites. Bib.
Subjects: Insects and Invertebrates; Animals—Scorpions

From the May 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

The post Insects and Arachnids appeared first on The Horn Book.

Duffy, Chris, Editor Fairy Tale Comics
Gr. K–3   128 pp. Roaring Brook/First Second

In this fine companion to Nursery Rhyme Comics, editor Duffy has chosen seventeen tales (“Puss in Boots,” “Rapunzel,” and “Hansel and Gretel,” among others) to be adapted by seventeen illustrators and cartoonists, including Raina Telgemeier, Brett Helquist, Charise Mericle Harper, and Jillian Tamaki. A wide range of tone and artistic styles results in a collection that offers something for everyone.
Subjects: Folktales, Myths, and Legends; Cartoons and comics; Fairy tales

Goldman, Judy Whiskers, Tails & Wings: Animal Folktales from Mexico
Gr. 4–6    58 pp. Charlesbridge

Illustrated by Fabricio VandenBroeck. This collection features traditional animal folktales of five lesser-known groups of Mexico’s indigenous people—the Seri, Tarahumara, Huichol, Triqui, and Tseltal. Each engagingly written tale is followed by informative material on the culture’s history, customs, and traditions. Extensive running glossaries of Spanish words and local expressions are helpful. Vivid folk-art paintings enliven the stories. Websites. Bib., ind.
Subjects: Folktales, Myths, and Legends; Native Americans—North America—Tseltal; Native Americans—North America—Triqui; Folklore—Mexico; Native Americans—North America—Seri; Native Americans—North America—Tarahumara; Native Americans—North America—Huichol; Folklore—Animals

Lee, H. Chuku, Reteller Beauty and the Beast
Gr. K–3    32 pp. HarperCollins/Amistad

Illustrated by Pat Cummings. Giving Cummings’s lushly detailed paintings center stage, Lee simplifies the tale and puts it into Beauty’s first-person voice. While the retelling retains the story’s original details, the pictures portray all of the characters as black, in settings inspired by West Africa. The retelling is crisp, the drafting is skillful, and the compositions are dramatic. Princess-lovers of any color should enjoy it.
Subjects: Folktales, Myths, and Legends; Blacks; Princes and princesses; Fairy tales

McHugh, Maura Twisted Fairy Tales: 20 Classic Stories with a Dark and Dangerous Heart
Middle school, high school   144 pp. Barron’s

Illustrated by Jane Laurie. In this hefty volume of fairy-tale interpretations, McHugh provides good variety, offering (often disturbing) twists on the more familiar tales and including many lesser-known stories. Laurie’s illustrations are atmospheric, haunting, and sometimes downright scary; the design, with watermarked borders, old-fashioned-looking graphic spot art, and inset quotes, is eye-catching (if occasionally distracting). No source information is provided.
Subjects: Folktales, Myths, and Legends; Fairy tales

Munduruku, Daniel Amazonia: Indigenous Tales from Brazil
Gr. 4–6, middle school  95 pp. Groundwood (House of Anansi Press)

Illustrated by Nikolai Popov. An indigenous Amazonian tells a dozen tales from seven different tribes. Munduruku narrates with refreshing economy; though his themes are such universals as maturation and survival, the drama is grounded in the jungle. Humor abounds, along with shapeshifters, forthright deaths, and earthy details. In Popov’s full-bleed gouache and ink art, energetic creatures inhabit luminous settings.
Subjects: Folktales, Myths, and Legends; Amazon River region; Folklore—Brazil

From the May 2014 issue of Notes from the Horn Book.

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Hudson, Maryann Girls’ Golf
Gr. 4–6   48 pp. ABDO

Lawrence, Blythe Girls’ Gymnastics
Gr. 4–6      48 pp. ABDO

Peters, Chris Girls’ Hockey
Gr. 4–6      48 pp. ABDO

Williams, Doug Girls’ Basketball
Gr. 4–6      48 pp. ABDO

Girls’ SportsZone series. These volumes survey four sports and the female athletes at their forefronts. Each chapter pairs a technical skill with a prominent contemporary athlete. The books are more overview than how-to, but each takes its sport seriously, depicting how the development of skills has shaped the athletes’ careers. Diagrams of a golf course, ice rink, etc. are appended. Reading list. Bib., glos., ind.
Subjects: Sports; Sports—Golf; Sports—Gymnastics; Sports—Hockey; Sports—Basketball; Women—Athletes

McClafferty, Carla Killough Fourth Down and Inches: Concussions and Football’s Make-or-Break Moment
Middle school, high school   96 pp. Carolrhoda

McClafferty’s informative and useful book focuses on football to discuss the serious but historically trivialized condition of concussion. Starting with football’s beginnings, McClafferty details the game’s early casualties; the controversy over its growing presence as a college sport; and how it became entrenched in American culture. She then goes on to cover the neuroscience behind head trauma and the increased awareness of the dangers. Reading list. Bib., ind.
Subjects: Sports; Sports—Football; Human body—Brain

Mulder, Michelle Pedal It!: How Bicycles Are Changing the World
Gr. 4–6   48 pp. Orca

Orca Footprints series. Divided into four chapters, this book looks at the history and mechanics of the bicycle, and explores reasons for its use, such as low cost and environmental impact. Well-captioned photos that show the unusual ways in which bikes have been put to work — from bicycle soccer in Europe to bicycle ambulances in Namibia — illustrate the accessible text. Reading list, websites. Ind.
Subjects: Machines and Technology; Sports—Bicycles and bicycling; Transportation

Nelson, Robin Baseball Is Fun!
Gr. K–3   24 pp. Lerner

Nelson, Robin Basketball Is Fun!
Gr. K–3      24 pp. Lerner

Nelson, Robin Dance Is Fun!
Gr. K–3      24 pp. Lerner

Nelson, Robin Football Is Fun!
Gr. K–3      24 pp. Lerner

Nelson, Robin Soccer Is Fun
Gr. K–3     24 pp. Lerner

Nelson, Robin Swimming Is Fun!
Gr. K–3      24 pp. Lerner

First Step Nonfiction: Sports Are Fun! series. Using the simplest of texts for new readers, these upbeat (if formulaic) books give basic and very broad descriptions of the title sports (“Do you like to throw and catch a ball? You can play football!”). Equipment, rules, and terminology are touched on; random “Fun Facts” are appended. Stock photos show kids playing sports. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Sports; Sports—Baseball; Sports—Basketball; Dance; Sports—Football; Sports—Soccer; Sports—Swimming

Rosenstock, Barb The Streak: How Joe DiMaggio Became America’s Hero
Gr. K–3 32 pp. Boyds/Calkins

Illustrated by Terry Widener. In 1941, with “war spreading like a fever through Europe,” the heroics of Joe DiMaggio offered a summertime respite as he began a hitting streak that would beat all previous records and has yet to be surpassed. Widener is a master at capturing the larger-than-life spirit of baseball through his perfectly attuned acrylic illustrations, and the text matches the art in its exuberance. Bib.
Subjects: Sports; Sports—Baseball; DiMaggio, Joe; History, Modern—World War II; Biographies

From the May 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

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Ancona, George It’s Our Garden: From Seeds to Harvest in a School Garden
Gr. K–3   48 pp. Candlewick

From spring planting to winterization, full-color photographs chronicle a year in the life of an elementary school garden in Santa Fe; students are shown composting soil, watering plants, and sampling the edible delights. While green is visually ubiquitous, the real star is the white space, which keeps each spread from becoming crowded. Ancona’s no-nonsense text is perfectly suited for newly independent readers. Websites. Bib.
Subjects: Farm Life, Husbandry, and Gardening; Schools—Elementary schools; New Mexico; Seasons; Composts; Plants; Fruits and vegetables

Berkes, Marianne What’s in the Garden?
Gr. K–3   32 pp. Dawn

Illustrated by Cris Arbo. Careful, realistic illustrations in this guessing book show a fruit or vegetable growing in a garden; a page turn shows each being harvested, prepared, or eaten by a child. The adequate rhyming text hints at each plant’s identity, and the reveal includes a related recipe. Additional information on produce, plant parts, and cooking terms are appended. Reading list, websites.
Subjects: Farm Life, Husbandry, and Gardening; Cookery; Fruits and vegetables; Plants; Stories in rhyme

Burns, Loree Griffin Citizen Scientists: Be a Part of Scientific Discovery from Your Own Backyard
Gr. 4–6    80 pp. Holt

Photographs by Ellen Harasimowicz. Burns brings much-deserved attention to four remarkable scientific projects that enlist regular people in data collection: the Monarch Watch butterfly tagging project, the Audubon Christmas Bird Count, a project documenting ladybug species, and a frog study. Detailed accounts of the procedures along with the handsome color photography make the idea of participation highly appealing. Bib., glos., ind.
Subjects: Natural History; Animals—Butterflies; Animals—Birds; Animals—Frogs; Animals—Ladybugs

Lanz, Helen Lettuce
Gr. 4–6   32 pp. Sea to Sea

Lanz, Helen Potatoes
Gr. 4–6    32 pp. Sea to Sea

Lanz, Helen Strawberries
Gr. 4–6    32 pp. Sea to Sea

Lanz, Helen Tomatoes
Gr. 4–6    32 pp. Sea to Sea

Grow Your Own series. With plenty of color photos of kids demonstrating the step-by-step instructions, these guides for beginners make gardening seem approachable and enjoyable. The easy-to-read text describes planting, care, and harvesting, as well as how to spot and solve problems such as pests and disease, over- or under-watering, and frost danger. Each book ends with a gardening calendar and related recipe. Websites. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Farm Life, Husbandry, and Gardening; Fruits and vegetables; Fruits and vegetables—Potatoes; Fruits and vegetables—Tomatoes; Plants

Root, Phyllis Plant a Pocket of Prairie
Gr. K–3   40 pp. Minnesota

Illustrated by Betsy Bowen. There isn’t much prairie left in the U.S., thanks to human farming and development. Readers are encouraged to reverse this trend by planting native plants in their own backyards, and watching what animals are attracted by each plant species. Mixed-media illustrations are placed on white backgrounds, their chunky outlines a modern twist on botanical illustration. The conservation and restoration message is universal.
Subjects: Farm Life, Husbandry, and Gardening; Prairies; Plants; Animals; Environment—Ecology; Environment—Conservation; Minnesota

From the May 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

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Butterworth, Chris See What a Seal Can Do
PS–Gr. 3   32 pp. Candlewick

Illustrated by Kate Nelms. Butterworth tells the story of one gray seal’s search for food. He dives down deep, and on his way back up, he comes across a mackerel shoal (an impressively illustrated motion-filled orb). Facts about seals appear in smaller italicized type throughout the conversational main text. Textured, realistic-looking mixed-media illustrations show the creature at home in both of its natural habitats. Websites. Ind.
Subjects: Natural History; Animals—Seals

Hibbert, Clare If You Were a Shark
Gr. K–3      32 pp. Smart Apple

If You Were A… series. This easy-to-read book provides an accessible glimpse into the world of sharks. Chapters include information on physical attributes, movement, hunting, and use of senses. Photographs show well-known species like the great white as well as the more unusual cookiecutter shark. The organized layout makes this an engaging and approachable book for interested readers. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Fish; Animals—Sharks

Simon, Seymour Seymour Simon’s Extreme Oceans
Gr. 4–6   57 pp. Chronicle

Simon presents an informative, wide-reaching overview of the earth’s oceans, each chapter featuring a different aspect of ocean science, from storms, tides, and tsunamis to whales, turtle migrations, and coral reefs. Conservation in light of human interaction and climate change is also discussed. High-quality color photographs in attractive, functional layouts support the text. Ind.
Subjects: General Science and Experiments; Oceans; Animals—Marine animals; Marine ecology; Weather

Swinburne, Stephen R. The Sea Turtle Scientist
Gr. 4–6, middle school    65 pp. Houghton

Scientists in the Field series. This series entry follows Dr. Kimberly Stewart, a.k.a. the “turtle lady,” who studies endangered sea turtles with The Wider Caribbean Sea Turtle Conservation Network (WIDECAST) on the island of St. Kitts. Swinburne covers what we know about the species and how we know it, and showcases WIDECAST’s refreshingly cooperative, respectful approach to the island’s human residents as it works for the turtles’ preservation. Reading list, websites. Glos.
Subjects: Reptiles and Amphibians; Animals—Sea turtles; Scientists; Marine biology

Turner, Pamela S. The Dolphins of Shark Bay
Gr. 4–6, middle school   76 pp. Houghton

Photographs by Scott Tuason. Scientists in the Field series. In the ocean waters of Western Australia, the scientists of the Shark Bay Dolphin Project investigate the behaviors of the highly intelligent bottlenose dolphin, which, unique among the species, uses tools. The detailed descriptions of the scientists’ day-to-day activities provide a window into the practice of animal behavior studies. Color photographs portray both the dolphins and the scientists hard at work at their observations. Bib., ind.
Subjects: Mammals; Animals—Dolphins; Scientists; Marine biology

From the May 2014 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

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