Space (Insiders)
Grade 4-7-This eye-catching, oversized volume is packed with colorful photos and illustrations. Each of the three main sections-"Exploring Space," "Our Solar System," and "Our Universe"-begins with a spread that describes its contents, asks questions (accompanied by pictures), and provides a "go to" reference for each chapter within the section. This is a good way to generate interest in what lies ahead. There are a total of 25 double-page topic treatments, and each one has numerous sidebars. For example, "Inside Story" gives anecdotes or profiles of real-life space heroes; "Word Builders" spotlights important terms, their meanings, and their origins; "That's Amazing!" introduces facts, records, and figures; "Pathfinder" directs readers from one subject to another; and "Hands On" offers interactive experiments, projects, and activities. Every page is chock-full of material, but the effect is not overwhelming. The text is lively, authoritative, and up-to-date. Youngsters will enjoy browsing the many fascinating facts and larger-than-life illustrations. Even Disney's Pluto makes an appearance next to his namesake.Linda Wadleigh, Oconee County Middle School, Watkinsville, GACopyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.