11/01/2023
Gr 6 Up—Here's an intelligent, well-organized series that works for older students and hi-lo readers alike. Volumes explore the fascinating origins of phenomena and creatures, i.e., the stories, folklore, culture, spiritual beliefs, etc., that might have "primed" societies to believe they existed. Each four-chapter volume opens a snappy, bulleted list of facts about the topic that will be elaborated upon later in the chapter. This precedes an anecdote about a real person's dramatic experience with the phenomenon/creature that's intended to arouse readers' attention. Well-written texts, delivered with short, easy-to-follow sentences, clearly lay out "evidence" about their subjects. Topics are presented squarely, intelligently, and with surprising sophistication. Topics are treated with balance: Where there's no evidence, a book says so but also mentions that some people still believe the phenomenon/creature is real and continue to hunt for supporting evidence with scientific tools. Notably, readers aren't talked down to; their intelligence and interest in the subjects are respected. Atmospheric, captioned color and black-and-white photos, illustrations, and occasional paintings enhance the set's noteworthiness; captioned/labeled maps and charts/diagrams are included where needed. Sidebars provide additional facts and commentary. Back matter features: glossary (no pronunciation guides); source notes; For further research (books, internet sources, websites); index. VERDICT These topics have plenty of audience appeal, and this series is very thoughtfully presented. Highly recommended for schools and public libraries.
