DNA Is Here to Stay

A simple explanation of what DNA is and what it does in the body

Grade 4-5-- Each of these British imports examines an aspect of the body not detailed in most offerings for this grade level. Cells Are Us introduces some of the various types of cells in the body. Most topics are covered in one or two spreads; text is limited to a couple of paragraphs while full-color illustrations take up at least three-quarters of the page (a format repeated in the other books). The focus is strict, giving a more comprehensive overview than can be found in Leslie Jean LeMaster's Cells and Tissues (Childrens, 1985). Cell Wars is a discussion of the immune system. AIDS is not mentioned. While not as complete as Alan Nourse's Your Immune System (Watts, 1989), it presents enough information to offer some background. DNA Is Here to Stay gives basic but lucid explanations; however, genetic theory and succession, subjects found in most books on heredity for this age group, are not included. Ideas are presented clearly and concisely in an appropriately conversational tone, often with splashes of humor. Difficult concepts are easily understood, while vibrant colors and cartoonlike characters of both sexes and various ethnicities add to the appeal. All three books will supplement health or human body units, although none of them has an index, glossary, or table of contents. --Denise L. Moll, Lone Pine Elementary School, West Bloomfield, MI
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.