School Library Journal

Series Review: Illustrations dominate the pages of this series. For example, in one spread a photograph shows a group of skateboarders, a diagram compares steep and shallow ramps, and a block of text explains how ramps reduce the effort needed to move an object. Additional text boxes define concepts or point out details in the photos. Each page includes real-life examples to help readers connect ideas to their own experiences. Back matter includes a quiz “to test your knowledge,” with answers provided on another page. Whether it is a photo of a shark to illustrate the concept of streamlining, or a Ferris wheel to show how wheels and axles can be used, the visuals were chosen to appeal to readers and arouse their interest in the content. –VERDICT These titles introduce a range of concepts to meet the needs of intermediate grades.