Reviews
Tackling intriguing and sometimes controversial topics, these hi/lo titles provide a thorough, yet approachable exploration of their subjects. This series is chockfull of photographs, diagrams, and informative sidebars, and the facts are presented in an eye-popping, visually engaging format. Each volume poses a question, provides background information, and explores all aspects of its subject including cutting-edge scientific developments as well as ethical issues. For example, in Organ Transplants, readers learn about the history of organ transplantation, the process of organ donation, and the ethical concerns involved, such as who is eligible to receive a transplant and whether the sale of organs should remain illegal. Readers are encouraged to think critically and actively engage in the scientific and ethical debates. Suitable for reports or simply to satisfy readers' curiosity. - Ragan O'Malley, Saint Ann's School, Brooklyn, NYSchool Library Journal April 2012 Issue, Invasive species are introduced into new areas, often accidentally, and grow rapidly, damaging the environment. In the United States alone, invasive species cause an estimated $12.6 billion in damages each year. Often, these species have no natural predators in their new environment, which helps them compete successfully with native populations. Species can invade through natural processes such as movement of water and wind, in the case of plant seeds, or by walking, flying, and swimming, in the case of animals. Human activity also spreads invasive species. The book details the stories of well-known cases including kudzu, Eurasian milfoil, cane toad, emerald ash borer, water hyacinth, and Asian carp. Some invasive species breed with native species, causing the native populations to become more like the invaders. Scientists and government agencies use a variety of methods to attempt to limit the invaders, including border security, barriers, predators, chemicals, bounties, and education. This book is part of the series on timely and potentially controversial topics. The books consider the pros and cons of the subjects in an easy-to-read and visually appealing format. Appropriate examples and short case studies are included, along with recent statistical information when needed. Words in bold print are defined in the glossary and underlined text is used for important information and defining terms. The books contain numerous sidebars, charts, and tables that offer interesting facts, related information, biographical vignettes, and thought-provoking quotes. Carefully selected, attention-getting illustrations and attractive, colorful layouts add to the appeal of the series. Additional useful features include conclusions and summaries of major points, career ideas, timelines, and discussion questions. Besides the glossary, there are also lists of print and web resources, topics and suggestions for further research, and an index. These books would be appropriate in a classroom library, providing information for discussions, reports, debates, and special projects. - Richard Lord The Science Teacher November 2012, Invasive species move into new areas, often accidentally, and grow rapidly, damaging the environment. In the United States alone, damage from invasive species is estimated at $12.6 billion each year. The success of these species may be due to having no natural enemies or being so well-adapted to the new environment that they compete successfully with native populations. Species can invade through natural processes such as movement of water and wind which carry plant seeds or, in the case of animals, by walking, flying, and swimming. Human activity has also been responsible for the spread of numerous species. Several well-known invasive species including kudzu, Eurasian milfoil, cane toad, emerald ash borer, water hyacinth, and Asian carp, are described in some detail in the book. Some invasive species actually breed with native species, causing the native populations to become more like the invaders. Scientists and government agencies use a variety of methods to attempt to limit the invaders. Among the techniques used are border security, barriers, predators, chemicals, bounties and, of course, education. This book is part of the series Sci-Hi: Science Issues, each of which considers a timely and potentially controversial topic. At the bottom of the front cover of each 48-page book is a question that grabs student interest in the book's subject matter. The books consider the pros and cons of the subjects in an easy-to-read and visually appealing format. Appropriate examples and short case studies are included, along with recent statistical information when needed. Words in bold print are defined in the glossary and underlined text is used occasionally for important information and defining terms. The books contain numerous sidebars, charts, and tables that offer interesting facts, related information, biographical vignettes, and thought-provoking quotes. Carefully selected, attention-getting illustrations and attractive, colorful layouts add to the appeal of the series. Additional useful features include conclusions and summaries of major points, career ideas, timelines, and discussion questions. Besides the glossary, there are also lists of print and web resources, topics and suggestions for further research, and an index. These books would be appropriate in a classroom library, providing information for discussions, reports, debates, and special projects. They would be especially useful resources at the middle school level and as good starting points for high school level activities., (4) 4-6 Sci-Hi: Science Issues series. This book examines how organisms, when introduced to new areas, often create unintended consequences. Flora and fauna that threaten to eradicate native plants and animals, such as kudzu, are discussed. Also included are ways scientists are working to protect and restore habitats and animals that have been overpowered by invasive species. Photographs and sidebars provide more information but contribute to the cramped design. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. Luther B. Clegg The Horn Book Guide Fall 2012 issue, This is a great basic series to introduce students to hot button scientific issues and controversies. Each book briefly introduces the development or technology, explains its current purpose or use, and discusses both sides of the issue. The books, filled with charts, diagrams, and colorful graphics will attract the reader. Each book also contains suggested topics for research. This series will be valuable as a research source for struggling students or to provide basic background information on an issue for more advanced students. Recommended.
