Book Finder

How many kinds of seeds to you see? Where are they found? This handsomely illustrated book of seeds provides a poetic look at the myriad types of seeds and plants to complement a classroom study.

Easier to read poems focus on weather and seasons.

Brief text and clear illustration combine to present both information and experiments that will encourage “what if” and “what next” discussions that can comfortably and safely combine with activities appropriate for young children.

Arresting photographs of water in various states not only introduces water but also weather, solids and liquids, and more. The sophisticated text further encourages experimentation and observation, although is not necessary to use the entire book with younger children.

Clear, textured illustrations of animals and their special parts (e.g., tail, nose) focus readers on the special function of each. Not only is it likely to generate a description of the appendage but its function (what it does), and of the animal and its environment. Other books by Steve Jenkins, such as Biggest, Strongest, Fastest (opens in a new window), may also generate rich descriptive language.

These poems introduce various insects and their lives; ideal for sharing aloud and for relating to informational books on insects.

Children are encouraged to observe as experiment as they learn about wind and air as well as practice science writing by describing their findings.

Norbert Rising finds himself in dangerous situations in the Arctic as he studies polar bears. This book connects children with the consequences of global warming, and gives practical advice on how to help save our white-furred friends.

Meet Henrietta Leavitt, a 19th century pioneer for women in science. From careful observations, Leavitt discovered that the brightness of a star determines its distance from Earth and her work helped us better understand the vastness of the universe. Warm colored pencil and watercolor illustrations by Colon create a contemplative mood. Back matter includes quotes about stars, a glossary, information about other female astronomers, and more.

Anyone who’s ever had a cold is sure to appreciate this examination of why one gets it and how the body combats it. Photomicrographs combines with comic illustrations for a lucid and thorough look at the topic. A glossary and index conclude the presentation.

What happens when a bone is broken? The body repairs it! How this happens is presented in clear language accompanied by photomicrographs and humorous illustrations for a clear explanation of the process.

Science is all around and whether planning a science fair project or just exploring the world something is sure to intrigue. Information and activities are presented in a large, heavily illustrated format organized by “inspirations” such as toys and “yourself & other humans”.

Everyone eats so naturally, the kitchen is the place to discover more about it. Chemistry is with us every day and in many ways, introduced in an informative, conversational text and easy-to-do activities with readily available materials.

Easy activities and commonplace snack foods bring basic principles of chemistry into focus. Combined with snappy full-color photographs, the information is clearly presented and sure to inspire as it informs.

The story of Louis Braille, the Frenchman who invented the raised-dot alphabet/code now used around the world by blind and visually impaired readers. The text traces Braille’s life from the childhood accident that caused him to lose his sight through his career at the National Institute for Blind Children in Paris. Readers can feel the alphabet and numbers from 1-10 at the back of the book.

With a light touch, readers meet Thomas Alva Edison in his world of research and development. It was Edison’s lab that led to things we take for granted today. For example, today we have all kinds of batteries but it all started with Edison’s nickel-iron storage battery. Cartoon illustrations add humor to this lighthearted but informative look at this inventor and his work.

The voice of an old, blind Galileo Galilei is used to look back on a life that started in Pisa where early on he challenged tradition. Though confined, the elderly Galileo asserts that, “The truth has a way of escaping into the light.” Bold lines border illustrations to evoke time and place, enhanced by spot illustrations of Galileo’s work and observations.

The world changed when rags and bone, sticky stuff, and other things came together in the hands of a man who lived in the German city of Mainz. Johannes Gutenberg had printed a book in a new way. Readers will be drawn in as the elements Gutenberg used unfold, illustrated in handsome, realistic illustrations. An epilogue completes this intriguing book.

When Bear looked at the sky and smelled the air, he ran to get his friend Mole. Together they make and fly a kite. A sudden storm tears the kite away from them but disappointment turns to satisfaction in this affably illustrated story told with repetition and onomatopoeia.

Fluid verse and detailed, bordered illustrations present the water homes of a range of fish. Those interested in finding out more about the individual creatures presented may want to locate Stockdale’s informational picture book (opens in a new window) with the same title.

Oliver is a curious child with lots of questions and a penchant for exploration. During quiet time at home, Oliver builds a contraption to find out if there’s a monster in the tub drain. His imaginative jaunt is presented with droll, naïve drawings, filled with Oliver’s child-like ideas.

An observant girl shares her observations and appreciation of ducks as she and her mother walk and watch. Information appears on open pages that sport informal illustrations and lively language for a memorable look at these feathered delights.

Lydia tires of her electronic devices while her parents and brother are enmeshed in theirs. A small leaf beckons the girl outdoors, propelling her into an imaginative outdoor adventure. Sure to start conversations among plugged-in family members, this genial fantasy is playful and light.

Follow a boy and his parents to the airport, on the plane, and through a bit of aviation history for an informative look at flying. Cartoon illustrations and information in bubbles and sidebars in an oversized format make this book just right for multiple examinations.