Buchmann, Stephen Honey Bees: Letters from the Hive
Middle school, high school     213 pp.     Delacorte

In this adaptation of his adult book Letters from the Hive, bee scientist and beekeeper Buchmann details the history of humans and honey. The informative text touches on such topics as technological developments in beekeeping, bee species around the world, and medicinal and economic uses of honey. Buchmann also offers personal musings on beekeeping and honey varieties. Some recipes are included. Reading list, websites. Ind.
Subjects: Farm Life, Husbandry, and Gardening; Animals—Honeybees; Animals—Bees; Beekeeping

Hengel, Katherine  Cool Birds & Bugs: Great Things to Do in the Great Outdoors
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO

Hengel, Katherine  Cool Maps & Geocaching: Great Things to Do in the Great Outdoors
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO

Hengel, Katherine Cool Parks & Trails: Great Things to Do in the Great Outdoors
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO

Kuskowski, Alex  Cool Backyard Camping: Great Things to Do in the Great Outdoors
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO

Kuskowski, Alex  Cool Outdoor Activities: Great Things to Do in the Great Outdoors
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO

Kuskowski, Alex Cool Outdoor Arts & Crafts: Great Things to Do in the Great Outdoors
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     ABDO

Checkerboard Library: Cool Great Outdoors series. Each book provides an inviting introduction to outdoor exploration and recreation. The series offers a range of diversions, focusing on projects associated with the activities, such as glow-stick lanterns (Camping) and a plastic bag compass (Maps). There's not much depth to the volumes, but with introductory chapters, materials lists, and step-by-step instructions with photos, these are accessible ways to foster enjoyment of the outdoors. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Handicrafts and Hobbies; Nature; Animals—Birds; Animals—Butterflies; Games—Geocaching; Maps; Exploration and explorers; Geography; National parks and reserves; Sports—Hiking; Parks; Camps and camping; Nature; Games; Play

Honovich, Nancy and Beer, Julie  National Geographic Kids Get Outside Guide: All Things Adventure, Exploration, and Fun!
Gr. 4–6     160 pp.     National Geographic

"With technological advances at an all-time high," this book suggests places to go and outdoor activities, and it offers facts about animals and land in a variety of settings (beach, forest, cities, parks, backyards, etc.). The information is lively, but the layout is overwhelming and random. Educators will find the information and activities useful. Appendices include "Top U.S. State Parks" list. Websites. Glos., ind.
Subjects: General Science and Experiments; Habitats; Play; Nature; Parks; National parks and reserves

Malnor, Carol L.  Wild Ones: Observing City Critters
Gr. K–3     32 pp.     Dawn

Illustrated by Cathy Morrison. "Nature is all around us, even in the city." This illuminating book invites readers to explore an urban environment with dog Scooter, who encounters bats under a bridge, starlings by a dumpster, etc. A somewhat awkward narrative gimmick prompts readers to spot what Scooter misses in the slick digital art (e.g., "He doesn't see the tracks... What he does see..."). Extensive supplemental information appended.
Subjects: Picture Books; Animals; City and town life; Animals—Dogs

Omoth, Tyler  Busting Boredom in the Great Outdoors
Gr. 4–6     32 pp.     Capstone

Edge Books: Boredom Busters series. Omoth presents eight activities to help children keep busy outside. Each project features large color photographs, materials list (consisting mostly of household items), and step-by-step instructions. Unfamiliar words are defined, and the book gives appropriate "Safety First" warnings when actions require adult supervision. A wide variety of creative and entertaining activities are included. Reading list. Glos., ind.
Subjects: Handicrafts and Hobbies; Emotions—Boredom; Creativity; Nature

From the September 2017 issue of Nonfiction Notes from the Horn Book.

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