Holocaust Through Primary Sources series

Altman, Linda Jacobs The Warsaw Ghetto Uprising: Striking a Blow Against the Nazis
Middle school, high school     128 pp.     Enslow     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3320-7

Byers, Ann Rescuing the Danish Jews: A Heroic Story from the Holocaust
Middle school, high school     128 pp.     Enslow     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3321-4

Byers, Ann Saving Children from the Holocaust: The Kindertransport
Middle school, high school     128 pp.     Enslow     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3323-8

Deem, James M. Auschwitz: Voices from the Death Camp
Middle school, high school     128 pp. Enslow 2011
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3322-1

Deem, James M. Kristallnacht: The Nazi Terror That Began the Holocaust
Middle school, high school     128 pp.     Enslow     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3324-5

Hoffman, Betty Liberation: Stories of Survival from the Holocaust
Middle school, high school     128 pp.     Enslow     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3319-1

Hodge, Deborah Rescuing the Children: The Story of the Kindertransport
Gr. 4–6    60 pp.     Tundra     2012
Trade ISBN 978-1-77049-256-1

Rappaport, Doreen Beyond Courage: The Untold Story of Jewish Resistance During the Holocaust
Middle school, high school     228 pp.     Candlewick     2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-7636-2976-2

Schubert, Leda Monsieur Marceau
Gr. K–3     40 pp.     Roaring Brook/Porter     2012
Trade ISBN 978-1-59643-529-2

Thomson, Ruth Terezín: Voices from the Holocaust
Gr. 4–6     64 pp.     Candlewick     2011
Trade ISBN 978-0-7636-4963-0

Exploration

Cowan, Mary Morton Captain Mac: The Life of Donald Baxter MacMillan, Arctic Explorer
Gr. 4–6     208 pp.     Boyds Mill/Calkins Creek     2010
Trade ISBN 978-1-59078-709-0

Great Explorers of the World series

DeFries, Cheryl L. Leif Eriksson: Viking Explorer of the New World
Middle school     112 pp.     Enslow     2010
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59845-126-9

Feinstein, Stephen Captain Cook: Great Explorer of the Pacific
Middle school     112 pp.     Enslow     2010
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59845-102-3

Green, Carl R. Cortés: Conquering the Powerful Aztec Empire
Middle school     112 pp.     Enslow     2010
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59845-099-6

Napoli, Tony Vasco da Gama: Discovering the Sea Route to India
Middle school     112 pp.     Enslow     2010
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59845-127-6

Robinson, Kate Lewis and Clark: Exploring the American West
Middle school     112 pp.     Enslow     2010
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59845-124-5

Sonneborn, Liz Pizarro: Conqueror of the Mighty Incas
Middle school     112 pp.     Enslow     2010
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59845-128-3

Hopkinson, Deborah Keep On!: The Story of Matthew Henson, Co-Discoverer of the North Pole
Gr. K–3     40 pp.     Peachtree     2009
Trade ISBN 978-1-56145-473-0

Ross, Stewart Into the Unknown: How Great Explorers Found Their Way by Land, Sea, and Air
Gr. 4–6    96 pp.     Candlewick      2011
Trade ISBN 978-0-7636-4948-7

Serrano, Francisco La Malinche: The Princess Who Helped Cortés Conquer the Aztec Empire
Gr. 4–6     37 pp.     Groundwood      2012
Trade ISBN 978-1-55498-111-3

Habitats and wildlife

Facts at Your Fingertips: Endangered Animals series

Birds
Middle school     64 pp.     Brown Bear     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-936333-31-8

Fish
Middle school     64 pp.     Brown Bear     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-936333-32-5

Invertebrates
Middle school     64 pp.     Brown Bear     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-936333-33-2

Mammals of the Northern Hemisphere
Middle school     64 pp.     Brown Bear     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-936333-34-9

Mammals of the Southern Hemisphere
Middle school     64 pp.     Brown Bear     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-936333-35-6

Reptiles and Amphibians
Middle school     64 pp.      Brown Bear     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-936333-36-3

Frydenborg, Kay Wild Horse Scientists [Scientists in the Field]
Gr. 4–6     80 pp.     Houghton Mifflin Harcourt     2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-547-51831-2

Hague, Bradley Alien Deep: Exploring the Mysterious Living World at the Bottom of the Ocean
Gr. 4–6     48 pp.     National Geographic Books     2012
Trade ISBN 978-1-4263-1067-6
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4623-1068-3

Miller, Debbie S. Survival at 120 Above
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Walker     2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-8027-9813-8

Yezerski, Thomas F. Meadowlands: A Wetlands Survival Story
Gr. K–3     40 pp.     Farrar     2011
Trade ISBN 978-0-374-34913-4

Farm life, husbandry, and gardening

Checkerboard How-To Library: Cool Garden to Table series

Hengel, Katherine Cool Basil from Garden to Table: How to Plant, Grow, and Prepare Basil
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-182-9

Hengel, Katherine Cool Carrots from Garden to Table: How to Plant, Grow, and Prepare Carrots
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-183-6

Hengel, Katherine Cool Green Beans from Garden to Table: How to Plant, Grow, and Prepare Green Beans
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-184-3

Hengel, Katherine Cool Leaf Lettuce from Garden to Table: How to Plant, Grow, and Prepare Lettuce
Gr. 4–6    32 pp.     ABDO     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-185-0

Heppermann, Christine City Chickens
Gr. 4–6     53 pp.     Houghton Mifflin Harcourt     2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-547-51830-5

Grow It Yourself series

Malam, John Grow Your Own Butterfly Farm
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Heinemann      2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4329-5109-2

Malam, John Grow Your Own Cat Toy
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Heinemann     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4329-5110-8

Malam, John Grow Your Own Sandwich
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Heinemann     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4329-5108-5

Malnor, Carol L. and Hunner, Trina L. Molly’s Organic Farm
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Dawn     2012
Trade ISBN 978-1-58469-166-2
Paperback ISBN 978-1-58469-167-9

Zoehfeld, Kathleen Weidner Secrets of the Garden: Food Chains and the Food Web in Our Backyard
Gr. K–3     40 pp.     Knopf     2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-517-70990-0

Life skills and wellness

Berkley, Elizabeth Ask Elizabeth
High school     240 pp.     Putnam      2011
Trade ISBN 978-0-399-25448-2
Paperback ISBN 978-0-399-25449-9

Bernstein, Daryl Better than a Lemonade Stand!: Small Business Ideas for Kids
Gr. 4–6     190 pp.     Simon & Schuster/Aladdin     2012
ISBN 978-1-58270-360-2
Paperback ISBN 978-1-58270-330-5

Kids of Character series

Concord, Juliet I Am Kind
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Gareth      2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4339-4868-8

Erroll, Mark I Am Honest
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Gareth     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4339-4862-6

Goodman, Errol I Am Helpful
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Gareth     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4339-4856-5

Hoffman, Mary Ann I Am a Good Citizen
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Gareth     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4339-4850-3

Joseph, Kurt I Am Respectful
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Gareth     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4339-4874-9

National, Walt I Am Responsible
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Gareth     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4339-4879-4

USA Today Teen Wise Guides: Time, Money, and Relationships series

Doeden, Matt Conflict Resolution Smarts: How to Communicate, Negotiate, Compromise, and More
High school     64 pp.     Twenty-First Century     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-7020-8

Donovan, Sandy Budgeting Smarts: How to Set Goals, Save Money, Spend Wisely, and More
High school     64 pp.     Twenty-First Century     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-7016-1

Donovan, Sandy Job Smarts: How to Find Work or Start a Business, Manage Earnings, and More
High school     64 pp.      Twenty-First Century     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-7015-4

Donovan, Sandy Scheduling Smarts: How to Get Organized, Prioritize, Manage Your Time, and More
High school     64 pp.     Twenty-First Century     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-7019-2

Markovics, Joyce Relationship Smarts: How to Navigate Dating, Friendships, Family Relationships, and More
High school     64 pp.     Twenty-First Century     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-7018-5

Scheff, Anna Shopping Smarts: How to Choose Wisely, Find Bargains, Spot Swindles, and More
High school     64 pp.     Twenty-First Century     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-7017-8

I Can Make a Difference series

Parker, Vic Helping Animals
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Heinemann     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4329-5943-2
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4329-5948-7

Parker, Vic Helping Family and Friends
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Heinemann     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4329-5944-9
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4329-5949-4

The post Books mentioned in the April 2013 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book appeared first on The Horn Book.

Byers, Ann Rescuing the Danish Jews: A Heroic Story from the Holocaust
Middle school, high school  128 pp. Enslow

Byers, Ann Saving Children from the Holocaust: The Kindertransport
Middle school, high school  128 pp. Enslow

Deem, James M. Auschwitz: Voices from the Death Camp
Middle school, high school  128 pp. Enslow

Deem, James M. Kristallnacht: The Nazi Terror That Began the Holocaust
Middle school, high school  128 pp. Enslow

Hoffman, Betty Liberation: Stories of Survival from the Holocaust
Middle school, high school  128 pp. Enslow
Holocaust Through Primary Sources series. This series covers various aspects of the Holocaust. Interspersed throughout the historical narratives are recollections by people who were there; text boxes with handwriting font signals first-person accounts. Some stock photos and occasional pictures supplied by the witnesses add immediacy. The writing and organization of material are uneven, but the volumes are useful nonetheless. Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Modern History; Jews; Nazism; History, Modern—Holocaust; Modern—World War II; Survival; Warsaw (Poland); Denmark; Righteous Gentiles; Concentration camps

Hodge, Deborah Rescuing the Children: The Story of the Kindertransport
Gr. 4–6 60 pp. Tundra
Hodge describes the Kindertransport that rescued nearly ten thousand Jewish children from Nazi-occupied Europe and brought them to Britain between 1938 and 1939. Chapters covering events leading up to and following the mission are sprinkled with 1930s–era art, archival photographs, and sidebars of anecdotes from eight featured survivors, all of which strengthen the book’s impact. Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos.
Subjects: Modern History; Kindertransport; History, Modern—Holocaust; Modern—World War II; Jews; Rescue work; Refugees

Rappaport, Doreen Beyond Courage: The Untold Story of Jewish Resistance During the Holocaust
Middle school, high school  228 pp. Candlewick
Rappaport profiles twenty Jewish resistance efforts — from defiance to outright fighting and escape — grouped by theme and introduced with essays, collectively presenting a comprehensive portrait. The power of Holocaust literature derives from the double witness of the horror of Hitler’s Final Solution and the resiliency of humankind in the face of that atrocity; that remains true here. Photographs complement the narrative. Timeline. Bib., ind.
Subjects: Modern History; History, Modern—Holocaust; Hitler, Adolf; Nazism; Jews; Modern—World War II; Rescue work; Righteous Gentiles

Schubert, Leda Monsieur Marceau
Gr. K–3  40 pp. Roaring Brook/Porter
Illustrated by Gérard DuBois. In this biography of Marcel Marceau (alter-ego, mime Bip), declarative sentences artfully capture the performer’s essence. The emphasis is on Marceau as an artist, but Schubert doesn’t shy away from his persecution as a Jew during the Holocaust and his involvement in Nazi resistance. DuBois’s vigorous illustrations strikingly cast Marceau as a mostly white figure against black backgrounds. An afterword and miming tips are appended. Reading list.
Subjects: Individual Biographies; Performing arts; Jews; History, Modern—Holocaust; France; Marceau, Marcel; Mimes

Thomson, Ruth Terezín: Voices from the Holocaust
Gr. 4–6  64 pp. Candlewick
Terezín was used by Nazi propagandists to show the world how “well” Jews were treated in concentration camps. Thomson examines the place through memoirs and diary excerpts, documentary photos, and artwork (some made for the Germans and some created secretly). Examples of the ways in which culture flourished along with the horrors of death from starvation and disease are represented in equal measure. Timeline, Bib., glos., ind.
Subjects: Modern History; History, Modern—Holocaust; Concentration camps; Nazism; Jews

From the April 2013 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

The post Remembering the Holocaust appeared first on The Horn Book.

Our Wonderful Weather series

Bodden, Valerie Clouds
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Creative Education     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-60818-146-9

Bodden, Valerie Hurricanes
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Creative Education     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-60818-147-6

Bodden, Valerie Snow
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Creative Education     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-60818-148-3

Bodden, Valerie Thunderstorms
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Creative Education    2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-60818-149-0

Inside series

Carson, Mary Kay Inside Weather
Gr. 4–6     48 pp.     Sterling     2011
Trade ISBN 978-1-4027-5881-2
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4027-8948-9

Stewart, Melissa Inside Earthquakes
Gr. 4–6     48 pp.     Sterling     2011
Trade ISBN 978-1-4027-5877-5
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4027-8163-6

Stewart, Melissa Inside Lightning
Gr. 4–6     48 pp.     Sterling     2011
Trade ISBN 978-1-4027-5878-2
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4027-8949-6

Stewart, Melissa Inside Volcanoes
Gr. 4–6     48 pp.     Sterling     2011
Trade ISBN 978-1-4027-5876-8
Paperback ISBN 978-1-4027-8164-3

Chin, Jason Island: A Story of the Galápagos
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Roaring Brook/Porter     2012
Trade ISBN 978-1-59643-716-6

Marrin, Albert Black Gold: The Story of Oil in Our Lives
High school     181 pp.     Knopf (Random House Children’s Books) 2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-375-86673-9
Library binding ISBN 978-0-375-96673-6

Simon, Seymour Seymour Simon’s Extreme Earth Records
Gr. 4–6     57 pp.     Chronicle     2012
Trade ISBN 978-1-4521-0785-1

Animal behavior

Cusick, Dawn Cool Animal Names: Porcupinefish, Zebra Eels, Leopard Geckos, Owl Monkeys, Giraffe Beettles, & 251 Other Bizarre Creatures
Gr. 4–6     80 pp.     Charlesbridge/Imagine     2011
Trade ISBN 978-1-936140-39-8

Davies, Nicola Talk, Talk, Squawk!: A Human’s Guide to Animal Communication
Gr. 4–6     64 pp.     Candlewick     2011
Trade ISBN 978-0-7636-5088-9

Downer, Ann Elephant Talk: The Surprising Science of Elephant Communication
High school     112 pp.     Twenty-First Century     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-5766-7

Animal Lives series

Pryor, Kimberley Jane Attracting Mates
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Smart Apple     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-401-7

Pryor, Kimberley Jane Food and Feeding
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Smart Apple     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-402-4

Pryor, Kimberley Jane Having Young
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Smart Apple     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-403-1  

Pryor, Kimberley Jane Homes
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Smart Apple     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-404-8

Pryor, Kimberley Jane Migration
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Smart Apple     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-405-5

Pryor, Kimberley Jane Movement
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Smart Apple     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-406-2

Animal Bodies Up Close series

Stewart, Melissa Amazing Eyes Up Close
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Enslow/Elementary (Enslow Publishers, Inc.)     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3889-9

Stewart, Melissa Fantastic Feet Up Close
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Enslow/Elementary (Enslow Publishers, Inc.)     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3890-5

Stewart, Melissa Incredible Ears Up Close
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Enslow/Elementary (Enslow Publishers, Inc.)     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3891-2

Stewart, Melissa Nifty Noses Up Close
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Enslow/Elementary (Enslow Publishers, Inc.)     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3892-9

Stewart, Melissa Talented Tails Up Close
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Enslow/Elementary (Enslow Publishers, Inc.)     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3893-6

Stewart, Melissa Terrific Tongues Up Close
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Enslow/Elementary (Enslow Publishers, Inc.)     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3894-3

Health and the human body

Checkerboard How-To Library: Cool Health & Fitness series

Dolphin, Colleen Cool Exercise: Healthy & Fun Ways to Get Your Body Moving
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     ABDO     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-427-1

Kuskowski, Alex Cool Body Basics: Healthy & Fun Ways to Care for Your Body
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     ABDO     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-425-7

Kuskowski, Alex Cool Eating: Healthy & Fun Ways to Eat Right
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     ABDO     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-426-4

Kuskowski, Alex Cool Relaxing: Healthy & Fun Ways to Chill Out
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     ABDO     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-428-8

Green, Dan Human Body Factory
Gr. 4–6     48 pp.     Kingfisher/Macmillan     2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-7534-6808-1

Inside My Body series

Parker, Steve How Do My Muscles Get Strong?: Muscles and Exercise
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.      Raintree      2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4109-4017-9

Thomas, Isabel Why Do I Burp?: Digestion and Diet
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     Raintree     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4109-4014-8

Rau, Dana Meachen Freaking Out!: The Science of the Teenage Brain [Everyday Science]
High school     64 pp.     Capstone/Compass Point     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7565-4486-7

Buddy Books: Body Systems series

Tieck, Sarah Circulatory System
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     ABDO     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61613-497-6

Tieck, Sarah Digestive System
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     ABDO     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61613-498-3

Tieck, Sarah Muscular System
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     ABDO     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61613-499-0

Tieck, Sarah Nervous System
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     ABDO     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61613-500-3

Machines and technology

Technology 360 series

Grabowski, John Television
High school     112 pp.     Lucent      2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4205-0169-8

Hillstrom, Laurie Collier Global Positioning Systems
High school      96 pp.     Lucent      2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4205-0325-8

Kallen, Stuart A. iPod and MP3 Players
High school     104 pp.     Lucent     2010
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4205-0166-7

First Facts: Transportation Zone series

Hanson, Anne E. Ambulances in Action
Gr. K–3      24 pp.     Capstone     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4296-6827-9

Olien, Becky Police Cars in Action
Gr. K–3      24 pp.     Capstone     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4296-6825-5

Schaefer, Lola M. Semitrucks in Action
Gr. K–3     24 pp.     Capstone     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4296-6826-2

Kaner, Etta Earth-Friendly Buildings, Bridges and More: The Eco-Journal of Corry Lapont
Gr. 4–6     64 pp.     Kids Can     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-55453-570-5

New Technology series

Graham, Ian Forensic Technology
High school      46 pp.      Smart Apple     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-532-8

Graham, Ian Robot Technology
High school     46 pp.     Smart Apple     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-533-5

Oxlade, Chris Gaming Technology
High school     46 pp.     Smart Apple     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-531-1

Ross, Stewart Sports Technology
High school     46 pp.     Smart Apple     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-534-2

Zimmermann, Karl The Stourbridge Lion: America’s First Locomotive
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Boyds     2012
Trade ISBN 978-1-59078-859-2

Books for Presidents’ Day

Kalman, Maira Looking at Lincoln
Gr. K–3     40 pp.     Penguin/Paulsen (Penguin Young Readers Group)     2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-399-24039-3

McClafferty, Carla Killough The Many Faces of George Washington: Remaking a Presidential Icon
Gr. 4–6   120 pp. Carolrhoda 2011
Trade ISBN 978-0-7613-5608-0

Sandler, Martin W. Kennedy Through the Lens: How Photography and Television Revealed and Shaped an Extraordinary Leader
Gr. 4–6     98 pp.     Walker     2011
Trade ISBN 978-0-8027-2160-0
Library binding ISBN 978-0-8027-2161-7

Townsend, Michael Where Do Presidents Come From? And Other Presidential Stuff of Super-Great Importance
Gr. 4–6     156 pp.     Dial     2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-8037-3748-8

Swanson, James L. Bloody Times: The Funeral of Abraham Lincoln and the Manhunt for Jefferson Davis
High school     196 pp.     HarperCollins/Collins (HarperCollins)     2011
Trade ISBN 978-0-06-156089-7

The Civil War

Civil War Highlights series

Cooke, Tim Causes of the War: 1800–1861
Middle school     48 pp.     Smart Apple     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-813-8

Cooke, Tim The Confederacy Advances: 1861–1862
Middle school     48 pp.     Smart Apple     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-814-5

Cooke, Tim Home Front: 1861–1865
Middle school     48 pp.     Smart Apple     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-817-6

Cooke, Tim Politics of the War: 1861–1865
Middle school     48 pp.     Smart Apple      2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-818-3

Cooke, Tim Triumph of the Union: 1864–1865
Middle school     48 pp.     Smart Apple     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-816-9

Cooke, Tim The Turning Point: 1863
Middle school      48 pp.     Smart Apple     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-59920-815-2

Gourley, Catherine The Horrors of Andersonville: Life and Death Inside a Civil War Prison
High school     192 pp.     Twenty-First Century     2010
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-4212-0

Jones, Carrie Sarah Emma Edmonds Was a Great Pretender: The True Story of a Civil War Spy
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Carolrhoda      2011
Trade ISBN 978-0-7613-5399-7

Kostyal, K. M. 1862, Fredericksburg: A New Look at a Bitter Civil War Battle
Gr. 4–6      48 pp.     National (National Geographic Books)     2011
Trade ISBN 978-1-4263-0835-2
Library binding ISBN 978-1-4263-0836-9

Rosenberg, Aaron The Civil War: One Event, Six People
Gr. 4–6     160 pp.     Scholastic     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-0-545-28926-9
Paperback ISBN 978-0-545-23756-7

Discovering ancient and medieval history

Barnard, Bryn The Genius of Islam: How Muslims Made the Modern World
Gr. 4–6   40 pp. Knopf (Random House Children’s Books) 2011
Trade ISBN 978-0-375-84072-2
Library binding ISBN 978-0-375-94072-9

Goddio, Franck The Treasures of the Seven Seas: Cleopatra and the Mystery of the San Diego
Gr. 4–6     45 pp.     Prestel     2011
Trade ISBN 978-3-7913-5096-7

Hartland, Jessie How the Sphinx Got to the Museum
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Blue Apple     2010
Trade ISBN 978-1-60905-032-0

Understanding World History series

Kallen, Stuart A. Ancient Egypt
High school     96 pp.      ReferencePoint     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-60152-152-1

Marcovitz, Hal Ancient Rome
High school      96 pp.      ReferencePoint     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-60152-186-6

Woog, Adam The Early Middle Ages
High school     96 pp.     ReferencePoint     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-60152-151-4

Woog, Adam The Late Middle Ages
High school     96 pp.     ReferencePoint     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-60152-188-0

Rubalcaba, Jill and Cline, Eric H. Digging for Troy: From Homer to Hisarlik
Gr. 4–6     74 pp.     Charlesbridge      2011
Trade ISBN 978-1-58089-326-8
Paperback ISBN 978-1-58089-327-5

Music

Cline-Ransome, Lesa Before There Was Mozart: The Story of Joseph Boulogne, Chevalier de Saint-George
Gr. K–3     40 pp.     Random/Schwartz & Wade     2011
Paperback ISBN 978-0-375-83600-8
Library binding ISBN 978-0-375-93621-0

Ready to Make Music series

Landau, Elaine Is the Flute for You?
Gr. 4–6     40 pp.     Lerner     2010
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-5420-8

Landau, Elaine Is the Guitar for You?
Gr. 4–6     40 pp.     Lerner     2010
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-5424-6

Landau, Elaine Is the Trumpet for You?
Gr. 4–6     40 pp.      Lerner      2010
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-5422-2

Landau, Elaine Is the Violin for You?
Gr. 4–6     40 pp.      Lerner      2010
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-5423-9

Manzella, Teresa Ryan How to Analyze the Music of Bob Dylan [Essential Critiques]
High school      112 pp.     ABDO     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-090-7

Rubin, Susan Goldman Music Was IT: Young Leonard Bernstein
Gr. 4–6     178 pp.     Charlesbridge     2011
Trade ISBN 978-1-58089-344-2

American Music Milestones series

Doeden, Matt American Latin Music: Rumba Sounds, Bossa Nova, and the Salsa Sound
Middle school, High school     64 pp.     Twenty-First Century     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-4505-3

Farseth, Erik American Rock: Guitar Heroes, Punks, and Metalheads
Middle school, High school     64 pp.     Twenty-First Century     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-4503-9

Kaplan, Arie American Pop: Hit Makers, Superstars, and Dance Revolutionaries
Middle school, High school     64 pp.     Twenty-First Century     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-4504-6

Mendelson, Aaron American R&B: Gospel Grooves, Funky Drummers, and Soul Power
Middle school, High school     64 pp.     Twenty-First Century     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-4501-5

Sachs, Lloyd American Country: Bluegrass, Honky-Tonk, and Crossover Sounds
Middle school, High school     64 pp.     Twenty-First Century     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-4502-2

Sacks, Nathan American HipHop: Rappers, DJs, and Hard Beats
Middle school, High school     64 pp.     Twenty-First Century     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7613-4500-8

Dance

Ancona, George Ole! Flamenco
Gr. 4–6     48 pp.     Lee     2010
Trade ISBN 978-1-60060-361-7

Friedman, Lise Becoming a Ballerina: A Nutcracker Story
Gr. 4–6     48 pp.     Viking      2012
Trade ISBN 978-0-670-01392-0

Greenberg, Jan and Jordan, Sandra Ballet for Martha: Making Appalachian Spring
Gr. K–3     48 pp.     Roaring Brook/Flash Point/Porter      2010
Trade ISBN 978-1-59643-338-0

Williams, Ann-Marie Learn to Speak Dance: A Guide to Creating, Performing, & Promoting Your Moves
Gr. 4–6      96 pp.     Owlkids     2011
Trade ISBN 978-1-926818-88-7
Paperback ISBN 978-1-926818-89-4

Winter, Jonah Jazz Age Josephine
Gr. K–3     40 pp.     Atheneum (Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing)     2012
Trade ISBN 978-1-4169-6123-9

Snow Day Activities

Creative Writing in 5 Simple Steps series

Dunkleberger, Amy Write a Mystery in 5 Simple Steps
Gr. 4–6, Middle school     48 pp.     Enslow     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3835-6

Lieurance, Suzanne Write a Romance in 5 Simple Steps
Gr. 4–6, Middle school  48 pp. Enslow     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3837-0

Litwin, Laura Baskes Write Horror Fiction in 5 Simple Steps
Gr. 4–6, Middle school  48 pp. Enslow     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3836-3

McKay, Laura Lee  Write Fantasy Fiction in 5 Simple Steps
Gr. 4–6, Middle school     48 pp.     Enslow     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3834-9

Peters, Jeffrey Edward Write a Graphic Novel in 5 Simple Steps
Gr. 4–6, Middle school     48 pp.     Enslow     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3888-2

Schuman, Michael A. Write Science Fiction in 5 Simple Steps
Gr. 4–6, Middle school     48 pp.      Enslow     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-0-7660-3844-8

Craft Star series

Fisher, Diana Rockin’ Crafts: Everything You Need to Become a Rock-Painting Craft Star!
Gr. 4–6     64 pp.     Walter Foster (Black Rabbit Books)     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-936309-40-5

Friday, Megan Green Crafts: Become an Earth-Friendly Craft Star, Step by Easy Step!
Gr. 4–6      64 pp.     Walter Foster (Black Rabbit Books)     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-936309-38-2

Friday, Megan Pet Crafts: Everything You Need to Become Your Pet’s Craft Star!
Gr. 4–6     64 pp.     Walter Foster (Black Rabbit Books)      2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-936309-41-2

Super Simple Cultural Art series

Kuskowski, Alex Super Simple African Art: Fun and Easy Art from Around the World
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     ABDO     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-210-9

Kuskowski, Alex Super Simple American Art: Fun and Easy Art from Around the World
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     ABDO     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-211-6

Kuskowski, Alex Super Simple Chinese Art: Fun and Easy Art from Around the World
Gr. K–3      32 pp.     ABDO     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-212-3

Kuskowski, Alex Super Simple Mexican Art: Fun and Easy Art from Around the World
Gr. K–3   32 pp. ABDO 2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-213-0

Super Simple Recipes series

Tuminelly, Nancy Let’s Cook with Apples!: Delicious & Fun Apple Dishes Kids Can Make
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     ABDO     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-418-9

Tuminelly, Nancy Let’s Cook with Cereal!: Delicious & Fun Cereal Dishes Kids Can Make
Gr. K–3      32 pp.     ABDO     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-419-6

Tuminelly, Nancy Let’s Cook with Cheese!: Delicious & Fun Cheese Dishes Kids Can Make
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     ABDO     2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-420-2

Tuminelly, Nancy Let’s Cook with Eggs!: Delicious & Fun Egg Dishes Kids Can Make
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     ABDO      2012
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61783-421-9

Checkerboard How-To Library: Cool World Cooking series

Wagner, Lisa Cool African Cooking: Fun and Tasty Recipes for Kids
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61714-658-9

Wagner, Lisa Cool Chinese and Japanese Cooking: Fun and Tasty Recipes for Kids
Gr. 4–6      32 pp.     ABDO     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61714-659-6

Wagner, Lisa Cool French Cooking: Fun and Tasty Recipes for Kids
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61714-660-2

Wagner, Lisa Cool Italian Cooking: Fun and Tasty Recipes for Kids
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO     2011
Library binding ISBN 978-1-61714-661-9

The post Books mentioned in the January 2013 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book appeared first on The Horn Book.

I’m thrilled that these developments mean more opportunities to expose children to high-quality nonfiction books and the scientific practices that can grow from them. Learning from texts and learning with texts should not be separated into reading hour and science time. Evidence gathering and evaluation of scientific claims can happen during discussion of an informational text; comprehension and text analysis can happen during an inquiry-based scientific experiment. Both domains can include consideration of visual representations of information, critical examination of author intent, and/or reasoning, and can promote excitement, wonderment, and engagement with scientific content.

There are good books out there now (hopefully, they will remain in print!), but we need more — especially more of high enough quality and in the full range of content areas covered in the NGSS. Some areas flourish: Scientific investigation on topics like biodiversity, climate change, or dinosaurs can rely on a host of books and other media that provide opportunities for cross-source comparisons, both of the science content and the genres in which this information is represented. However, elementary teachers planning a unit in an area like the physical sciences are stuck with fewer options, and nearly all are expository textbook-like volumes or collections of activities (often mislabeled “experiments,” but that’s another topic). Hopefully these new standards will create opportunities for writers to produce a multitude of science titles that support the various critical literacy practices required by the CCSS and that cover the range of content areas required by the NGSS. Not all books on force and motion need to include activities, and excellent photography shouldn’t be limited to animal books.

Media specialists and librarians will play a critical role in supporting quality instruction. Integration challenges teachers, at the primary level where science may not be a teacher’s specialty, and at the secondary level where science is taught in the extremes of textbook memorization or hands-on learning only. I’m worried that as we move forward, enterprising publishers will entice schools with complexity-reducing “kits” that erase all the potential in the standards. Beware the neatly packaged curricula that pair short and meaningless hands-on activities with literature only tangentially related to science, or poorly written nonfiction “supplements” to science units — these do not promote scientific literacy as intended in the standards. Instead, go for the best in children’s nonfiction writing and use it to inspire critical reading and scientific reasoning across the school day.

From the January 2013 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

The post Science and the Common Core appeared first on The Horn Book.

Creative Writing in 5 Simple Steps series. Most suitable for upper-elementary and middle-school aspiring authors, this series straightforwardly introduces writing in various genres through chapters on inspiration, preparation, organization, composition, and publication; Graphic Novel includes a chapter on illustration. Readers will find practical starting advice, writing techniques, famous examples of the genre, as well as questions and prompts to foster engagement with their own work. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.
Subjects: General literature; Writing; Creativity; Authors; Mystery and detective stories; Emotions—Love; Supernatural—Horror stories; Fantasy; Graphic novels; Cartoons and comics; Science fiction

Fisher, Diana Rockin’ Crafts: Everything You Need to Become a Rock-Painting Craft Star!
Gr. 4–6   64 pp. Walter Foster (Black Rabbit Books) 2012
Friday, Megan Green Crafts: Become an Earth-Friendly Craft Star, Step by Easy Step!
Gr. 4–6   64 pp. Walter Foster (Black Rabbit Books) 2012
Friday, Megan Pet Crafts: Everything You Need to Become Your Pet’s Craft Star!
Gr. 4–6   64 pp. Walter Foster (Black Rabbit Books) 2012

Craft Star series. Round, smooth, clean rocks can be painted to look like sleeping dogs, ladybugs, UFOs; pet toys can be made from household items; and tote bags, T-shirts, cans, and jars can be dressed up creatively by middle-grade kids in a few simple, well-illustrated steps. Color photographs accompany the clear instructions. Patterns are included.
Subjects: Handicrafts and Hobbies; Rocks; Painting; Pets; Environment—Recycling

Kuskowski, Alex Super Simple African Art: Fun and Easy Art from Around the World
Gr. K–3   32 pp. ABDO 2012
Kuskowski, Alex Super Simple American Art: Fun and Easy Art from Around the World
Gr. K–3   32 pp. ABDO 2012
Kuskowski, Alex Super Simple Chinese Art: Fun and Easy Art from Around the World
Gr. K–3   32 pp. ABDO 2012
Kuskowski, Alex Super Simple Mexican Art: Fun and Easy Art from Around the World
Gr. K–3   32 pp. ABDO 2012

Super Simple Cultural Art series. Simple, attractive crafts that children can make by themselves from ordinary materials in a few steps provide brief introductions to some cultural celebrations and symbols. West African kufi caps, Chinese dragon puppets, Mexican hojalatas, and American L?liberty headbands and torches are among the distinctive crafts presented; the volumes offer respectful ways to identify and enjoy a different world culture. Glos.
Subjects: Handicrafts and Hobbies; Africa; United States; China; Mexico

Tuminelly, Nancy Let’s Cook with Apples!: Delicious & Fun Apple Dishes Kids Can Make
Gr. K–3   32 pp. ABDO 2012
Tuminelly, Nancy Let’s Cook with Cereal!: Delicious & Fun Cereal Dishes Kids Can Make
Gr. K–3   32 pp. ABDO 2012
Tuminelly, Nancy Let’s Cook with Cheese!: Delicious & Fun Cheese Dishes Kids Can Make
Gr. K–3   32 pp. ABDO 2012
Tuminelly, Nancy Let’s Cook with Eggs!: Delicious & Fun Egg Dishes Kids Can Make
Gr. K–3   32 pp. ABDO 2012

Super Simple Recipes series. Each volume contains eight creative kid-geared recipes preceded by pages introducing the titular base ingredient, cooking tools, measurements, and basic kitchen skills. The recipes are of varying degrees of difficulty, though all are manageable with some adult help. Color photos correspond with the simple step-by-step directions and also show the final scrumptious-looking products. Glos.
Subjects: Cookery and Nutrition; Fruits and vegetables—Apples; Eggs

Wagner, Lisa Cool African Cooking: Fun and Tasty Recipes for Kids
Gr. 4–6   32 pp. ABDO 2011
Wagner, Lisa Cool Chinese and Japanese Cooking: Fun and Tasty Recipes for Kids
Gr. 4–6   32 pp. ABDO 2011
Wagner, Lisa Cool French Cooking: Fun and Tasty Recipes for Kids
Gr. 4–6   32 pp. ABDO 2011
Wagner, Lisa Cool Italian Cooking: Fun and Tasty Recipes for Kids
Gr. 4–6   32 pp. ABDO 2011

Checkerboard How-To Library: Cool World Cooking series. These appealing books provide recipes for children seeking a general idea of a culture’s special foods while staying with basic, familiar ingredients and simplified preparation routines. Each country is shown on a map and its cuisine characterized briefly before tools, techniques, and safety rules are presented. A pronunciation guide is also included. Bright photographs show the tasty-looking menu items. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Cookery and Nutrition; Africa; Food; China; Japan; France; Italy

From the January 2013 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

The post Snow Day Activities appeared first on The Horn Book.

Flamenco student Janira and her classmates learn an “art that goes back a long, long time.” Ancona’s narration skillfully paces Janira’s preparation for performance with the history of flamenco, encompassing music, song, and dance, and the inextricably connected history of the Roma. Accompanying photographs capture the dancers’ and musical accompanists’ expressive bodies and faces mid-gesture. Bib., glos.
Subjects: Performing Arts; Dance; Romany

Friedman, Lise Becoming a Ballerina: A Nutcracker Story
Gr. 4–6   48 pp. Viking 2012

Photographs by Mary Dowdle. This photo-essay follows young Boston Ballet student Fiona as she auditions for the role of Clara in The Nutcracker, wins the part, and prepares for her performance. Crisp color photographs document the ballet company onstage and behind the scenes. Young dancers will be entranced by the rehearsal, costuming, and staging details; Nutcracker fans will treasure this intimate view of a holiday tradition.
Subjects: Performing Arts; Dance—Ballet; Boston (MA)

Greenberg, Jan and Jordan, Sandra Ballet for Martha: Making Appalachian Spring
Gr. K–3   48 pp. Roaring Brook/Flash Point/Porter 2010

Illustrated by Brian Floca. After choreographer Martha Graham asked composer Aaron Copland and sculptor/set designer Isamu Noguchi to collaborate with her on a new ballet, the iconic Appalachian Spring was born. Using spare, concise sentences, the authors echo Graham’s approach to dance: nothing’s wasted, and in such exactness lies beauty. Floca’s fluid, energetic line and watercolor illustrations also reflect the plain boldness of Graham’s choreography. Websites. Bib.
Subjects: Performing Arts; Dance—Ballet; Composers; Choreographers; Graham, Martha; Women—Biographies; Biographies; Women—Choreographers; Noguchi, Isamu; Copland, Aaron; Artists

Williams, Ann-Marie Learn to Speak Dance: A Guide to Creating, Performing, & Promoting Your Moves
Gr. 4–6   96 pp. Owlkids 2011

Illustrated by Jeff Kulak. This DIY guide gives a brief introduction to dance as a hobby or career. Topics range from choreography and performance to self-promotion and landing gigs. Sophisticated concepts and accurate terminology are presented clearly and accessibly. Quotes from established dancers/choreographers, recommended videos, and an appended overview of nine dance styles encourage further exploration. Angular spot art illustrates the text. Ind.
Subjects: Performing Arts; Dance

Winter, Jonah Jazz Age Josephine
Gr. K–3   40 pp. Atheneum (Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing) 2012

Illustrated by Marjorie Priceman. Blues-reminiscent rhymes tell the story of the dance and civil rights icon Josephine Baker’s climb from penurious St. Louis childhood to Jazz Age–era fame in France. Winter finds the right way to introduce an unconventional, groundbreaking artist to a young readership; Priceman’s gouache and ink illustrations energetically dance on the page. An author’s note further details Baker’s accomplishments.
Subjects: Individual Biographies; Baker, Josephine; Women—Dancers; Dance; Race relations; Paris (France); Women—Biographies; African Americans; Women—African Americans; St. Louis (MO); Music—Jazz

From the January 2013 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

The post Dance appeared first on The Horn Book.

Illustrated by James E. Ransome. Cline-Ransome gives a lively account of the great “mulatto” violinist. The text describes both what a man of his parentage could and couldn’t do in eighteenth-century France and also his accomplishments. Ransome’s lustrous mixed-media paintings illumine Boulogne’s tropical Guadeloupe birthplace and distinguished Parisian venues with equal panache; he gives his subject an appealing intensity and intelligence that ripen into quiet authority.
Subjects: Individual Biographies; Music—Classical music; Mixed-race people; Musicians; Composers; Blacks; Saint-Georges, Joseph Boulogne, Chevalier de; Musical instruments—Violin; France

Landau, Elaine Is the Flute for You?
Gr. 4–6   40 pp. Lerner 2010
Landau, Elaine Is the Guitar for You?
Gr. 4–6   40 pp. Lerner 2010
Landau, Elaine Is the Trumpet for You?
Gr. 4–6   40 pp. Lerner 2010
Landau, Elaine Is the Violin for You?
Gr. 4–6   40 pp. Lerner 2010

Ready to Make Music series. Budding musicians contemplating lessons may find these thorough introductions useful in helping to choose which instrument to study. Topics include styles of music and famous virtuosos. In addition, diligent practice is encouraged and useful quizzes to determine if the instrument is “right for you” are appended. Many photos of smiling children and professional players are included. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.
Subjects: Music; Musical instruments—Violin; Musical instruments—Trumpet; Musical instruments—Guitar; Musical instruments—Flute

Manzella, Teresa Ryan How to Analyze the Music of Bob Dylan
High school   112 pp. ABDO 2011

Essential Critiques series. From a clear definition of critical theory and its purpose to practical applications, this title presents a well-written introduction to the analysis of music and lyrics. The biographical sketch, followed by a comprehensive comparison and analysis of Dylan’s protest and personal songs, provides a worthy model for thinking critically and developing and defending a thesis. A “You Critique It” assignment provides additional guidance. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind.
Subjects: Music; Dylan, Bob; Music—Folk music; Musicians

Rubin, Susan Goldman Music Was IT: Young Leonard Bernstein
Gr. 4–6   178 pp. Charlesbridge 2011

Leonard Bernstein, through a lot of perseverance and a little luck, made his conducting debut at Carnegie Hall with the New York Philharmonic at age twenty-five. Rubin’s biography, focusing on the youth and early adulthood of its subject, succeeds with her engaging style and infectious passion. Numerous black-and-white photographs appear throughout. Biographical sketches and a discography are appended. Timeline. Bib., ind.
Subjects: Individual Biographies; Music—Classical music; Bernstein, Leonard; Musicians; Conductors (Music); Composers; Jews

Doeden, Matt American Latin Music: Rumba Sounds, Bossa Nova, and the Salsa Sound
Middle school, High school   64 pp. Twenty-First Century 2012
Farseth, Erik American Rock: Guitar Heroes, Punks, and Metalheads
Middle school, High school   64 pp. Twenty-First Century 2012
Kaplan, Arie American Pop: Hit Makers, Superstars, and Dance Revolutionaries
Middle school, High school   64 pp. Twenty-First Century 2012
Mendelson, Aaron American R&B: Gospel Grooves, Funky Drummers, and Soul Power
Middle school, High school   64 pp. Twenty-First Century 2012
Sachs, Lloyd American Country: Bluegrass, Honky-Tonk, and Crossover Sounds
Middle school, High school   64 pp. Twenty-First Century 2012
Sacks, Nathan American HipHop: Rappers, DJs, and Hard Beats
Middle school, High school   64 pp. Twenty-First Century 2012

American Music Milestones series. These well-researched, comprehensive chronologies of modern American musical genres are presented on jazzy magazine-style layouts with eye-catching vintage and contemporary photos. Descriptions of specific transformative moments and key musicians are smoothly worked into the engagingly written narratives. Sections highlighting periods and subgenres include “must download playlists”; longer lists of recommended albums and songs are appended. Reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind.
Subjects: Music—Rap music; Music—Hip-hop; Music—Rhythm and blues; Music—Soul music; Music—Country music; Bands; Music—Dance music; Musicians; Singers; Music—Latin music; Music—Pop music; Music—Rock music; Music—Heavy metal

From the January 2013 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

The post Music appeared first on The Horn Book.

This volume surveys, via text and informative original paintings, the many technological and scientific advances made, refined, or dispersed during the “Islamic Golden Age.” The seventh through twelfth centuries saw progress in medicine, agriculture, optics, music, machinery, etc., to which Barnard devotes twelve topically divided double-page spreads. Tidily colored illustrations, accompanied by good captions, offer helpful amplification of the subtopics. Reading list.
Subjects: Ancient and Medieval History; Islamic Empire; Religion—Islam; Inventions and inventors

Goddio, Franck The Treasures of the Seven Seas: Cleopatra and the Mystery of the San Diego
Gr. 4–6   45 pp. Prestel 2011

Text by Marianne Meyer Bianchi. Undersea archaeologist Goddio seeks artifacts on the ocean floor. Detailed here are his expeditions in Egypt, searching for ancient artifacts, and the Philippines, looking for remains from the 1600 San Diego. Background information on the areas and their historical significance provides context before specific finds, along with techniques for underwater archaeology, are discussed. Plentiful photos, maps, and sidebars supplement the text.
Subjects: Ancient and Medieval History; Egypt, Ancient; Kings, queens, and rulers; Women—Royalty; Cleopatra; Shipwrecks; Vehicles—Ships; Underwater exploration; Oceans; Archaeology; Philippines

Hartland, Jessie How the Sphinx Got to the Museum
Gr. K–3   32 pp. Blue Apple 2010

The process of how an artifact—in this case, an Egyptian Sphinx—ends up in a museum is explained to a group of visiting children. From “ordered by the pharaoh” to “repaired by the conservators,” no step is left unexplored; textured cartoon illustrations help illuminate the events. This thorough discussion of the archaeological and curatorial processes will satisfy young historians.
Subjects: Visual Arts; Sphinxes (Mythology); Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York, NY); Museums; Egypt, Ancient; Sculpture; Archaeology

Kallen, Stuart A. Ancient Egypt
High school   96 pp. ReferencePoint 2011
Marcovitz, Hal Ancient Rome
High school   96 pp. ReferencePoint 2011
Woog, Adam The Early Middle Ages
High school   96 pp. ReferencePoint 2011
Woog, Adam The Late Middle Ages
High school   96 pp. ReferencePoint 2011

Understanding World History series. These books chronicle the personalities and events that played principal roles in the development of Western civilization from 3100 BC in ancient Egypt to the end of the Middle Ages, circa 1450. The readable, concise texts are reinforced with numerous illustrations and maps. Readers will appreciate the sidebars that give additional information about particular eras. Timeline, websites. Bib., ind.
Subjects: Ancient and Medieval History, Egypt, Ancient; Rome, Ancient

Rubalcaba, Jill and Cline, Eric H. Digging for Troy: From Homer to Hisarlik
Gr. 4–6   74 pp. Charlesbridge 2011

Illustrated by Sarah S. Brannen. Rubalcaba and Cline first discuss the myth surrounding Troy’s downfall, then examine major phases of the storied city’s excavation. Evolution of excavation techniques is detailed as well as the change in thoughts surrounding the possible reality of a Trojan War and how science could reconcile history and myth. Illustrations and archival photographs throughout help support the thorough text. Timeline, websites. Bib., ind.
Subjects: Ancient and Medieval History; Archaeology; Troy (Extinct city); Trojan War

From the January 2013 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

The post Discovering Ancient and Medieval History appeared first on The Horn Book.

Civil War Highlights series. The events leading up to, during, and following the Civil War are chronicled in this series. Each volume relates information clearly; sidebars effectively extend the text; and maps, illustrations and archival photos are well-placed. A perspective-widening timeline setting the war’s progress alongside other national events runs through every page. Appended quizzes help cement what readers have learned. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.
Subjects: History, American—Civil War; Slavery; Southern States; Politics

Gourley, Catherine The Horrors of Andersonville: Life and Death Inside a Civil War Prison
High school   192 pp. Twenty-First Century 2010

This volume details the history of the Confederate prisoner-of-war camp at Andersonville, Georgia, using official records and the personal recollections of both Confederate and Union soldiers. The book also provides biographical information about Captain Wirz, the camp commandant and only person charged with crimes connected with the camp. Period photographs, art, and numerous sidebars help shed light on the horrible conditions at Andersonville. Reading list, websites. Bib., ind.
Subjects: North America; History, American—Civil War; Prisons and prisoners; Georgia

Jones, Carrie Sarah Emma Edmonds Was a Great Pretender: The True Story of a Civil War Spy
Gr. K–3   32 pp. Carolrhoda 2011

Illustrated by Mark Oldroyd. Sarah Edmonds, disguised as a man, fought alongside and spied for Union troops during the Civil War. Jones enumerates these feats with touches of humor, and she continues Sarah’s story throughout the war and her subsequent marriage. Oldroyd makes effective use of broad, rough-hewn brush strokes, particularly in creating an impressionistic background that frequently allows a detailed illustration of Sarah to take center stage. Bib.
Subjects: Individual Biographies; Women—Spies; History, American—Civil War; Women—Biographies; Spies; Edmonds, Sarah Emma; Gender roles; Nurses; Women—Nurses; Soldiers

Kostyal, K. M. 1862, Fredericksburg: A New Look at a Bitter Civil War Battle
Gr. 4–6   48 pp. National (National Geographic Books) 2011

Photographs by Lori Epstein. This book presents an overview of the clashes between the Union and Confederate armies in and around Fredericksburg, Virginia, strategically located between Richmond, VA, and Washington, D.C. Emphasis is on the devastating battle of December 1862, during which “the Union loses badly.” Eyewitness accounts, written in letters and diaries, enhance the historical narrative, as do photographs of battle reenactors. Timeline. Bib., ind.
Subjects: North America; History, American—Civil War; Virginia

Rosenberg, Aaron The Civil War: One Event, Six People
Gr. 4–6   160 pp. Scholastic 2011

Profiles series. This volume profiles six important Civil War figures: Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglass, Clara Barton, George McClellan, Robert E. Lee, and Mathew Brady. Biographical information is well tied to key historical events. Supplemented with black-and-white drawings and photos (some color-tinted), these readable and informative short sketches may motivate readers to do further research on the period. Websites. Bib., ind.
Subjects: Collective Biographies; History, American—Civil War

From the January 2013 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

The post The Civil War appeared first on The Horn Book.

Technology 360 series. After brief histories behind their title technologies, these books provide thoughtful discussions of the appeal, markets, risks, and social implications of their subjects; for example, environmental effects of discarded iPods and security concerns with social networking sites. The books seem to be as up-to-date as possible for print. Photos, sidebars, and other visuals, as well as documented quotations, strengthen the presentations. Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Machines and Technology; Television; Communication; General Knowledge; Computers; Internet; Writing; Music

Hanson, Anne E. Ambulances in Action
Gr. K–3   24 pp. Capstone 2011
Olien, Becky Police Cars in Action
Gr. K–3   24 pp. Capstone 2011
Schaefer, Lola M. Semitrucks in Action
Gr. K–3   24 pp. Capstone 2011

First Facts: Transportation Zone series. These slim volumes pack in a good amount of information on their title topics. Car and truck fans may be drawn to the brief texts, including historical background and contemporary examples; they may also find some challenging vocabulary. The many photographs are well labeled. Each volume includes an activity (e.g., “Make a Siren”). Reading list. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Machines and Technology; Vehicles—Ambulances; Vehicles—Trucks; Police officers; Vehicles—Automobiles

Kaner, Etta Earth-Friendly Buildings, Bridges and More: The Eco-Journal of Corry Lapont
Gr. 4–6   64 pp. Kids Can 2012

Illustrated by Stephen MacEachern. Fictional Corry travels worldwide with her engineer parents for a year collecting postcards, information, and examples regarding skyscrapers, bridges, tunnels, domes, dams, levees, etc., with some doable experiments to illustrate principles. Accurate, accessible information about the multiple engineering challenges of such structures is enriched with numerous photos and drawings; the tone is light, but the subject is treated seriously. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Machines and Technology; Architecture; Buildings; Engineering; Environment—Ecology

Graham, Ian Forensic Technology
High school   46 pp. Smart Apple 2011
Graham, Ian Robot Technology
High school   46 pp. Smart Apple 2011
Oxlade, Chris Gaming Technology
High school   46 pp. Smart Apple 2011
Ross, Stewart Sports Technology
High school   46 pp. Smart Apple 2011

New Technology series. This up-to-date series examines how technology drives, changes, and otherwise influences the title subject areas, from exponentially increasing the accuracy and speed of forensics to enhancing sports statistics and protecting athletes. The texts are readable (at a fairly high level), with photos, charts, and drawings clarifying and extending them. Sidebars enhance the volumes and offer important ethical pros and cons. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Machines and Technology; Sports; Forensic science; Robots; Computer games; Video games; Computers

Zimmermann, Karl The Stourbridge Lion: America’s First Locomotive
Gr. K–3   32 pp. Boyds 2012

Illustrated by Steven Walker. Zimmermann relates the story of America’s first steam locomotive and how it came into being. Manufactured in England and brought to Pennsylvania in the 1830s, its purpose was to transport coal on a sixteen-mile rail track to canal barges for the journey to New York City. Walker’s oil paintings add depth to the succinct narrative. An addendum extends the text. Bib.
Subjects: Machines and Technology; Vehicles—Trains; Railroads; Pennsylvania; Transportation; History, American

From the January 2013 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

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