11/01/2014
Gr 4–6—Disregard the uninspiring cover designs—this series is a winner. Strong writing is peppered with dramatic details that will bring scientific discoveries to life. Students can develop analytical Common Core skills through sidebar questions. "Consider Your Audience" asks readers to rewrite a passage for a new audience: a challenging and creative task. Archival photos and well-drawn diagrams, such as Isaac Newton's prisms of light, will appeal to visual learners. Students will appreciate information that Newton was disinterested in school but loved to build mousetraps and windmills. There is also a plethora of fun and engaging facts; for instance, Newton conducted science experiments on himself—one of which included piercing his own eyeballs. Students will learn about the different accomplishments of each scientist while joining them on the often tumultuous journey to success. A staple for libraries.
