Chemistry: Getting a Big Reaction
(Basher Science)

Gr 4-8--Two new titles follow the format of Green and Basher's Physics and Biology (both Kingfisher, 2008) and other visually appealing introductions to the sciences. Chemistry begins with a short overview of the discipline and information on Antoine Lavoisier's 18th-century scientific findings. Concepts are grouped by associations: "Basic States" (solid, liquid, etc.), "Nuts and Bolts" (atom, ion, etc.), "Nasty Boys" (acid, base, etc.), and more. The individual concepts are each introduced over a spread that features a computer-generated cartoon of a character representing the idea and a brief introduction to its characteristics and personality. Math follows a similar format, but without an introduction. Chapters include, among others: "Number Bunch" (zero, infinity, etc.), "Special Sum-Things" (add, subtract, etc.), and "Shape Shifters" (line, angle, etc.). In both books, the information is presented in a chatty, first-person voice. For example, "Acid" announces: "The most notorious of the Nasty Boys. I'm mad, bad, and thoroughly dangerous to know. Given the chance, I'll eat away at Metal and burn through your skin!" Other basic facts are provided in bullet points and small boxed areas. Thee worthwhile library purchases would make handy curriculum supplements.--Maren Ostergard, King County Library System, Issaquah, WA