Illustrated Science Encyclopedia

A twenty-four volume set containing brief articles on science topics.

Grade 5-9. Expanded from the 18-volume 1991 edition, this sine qua non of middle-grade science reference includes over 200 new entries among its 3000 plus; a separate volume of science projects (75 in all); and another containing a wide array of tables, lists, charts (all unsourced, however); laudably current topical bibliographies; and a complete index. Arranged in a single alphabet, with more general subjects ("Algae" "Sleep" "Migration") set off by ruled borders and larger headings, the articles are festooned with sharp, captioned, color photos and paintings, plus plenty of cross-references. The layout is lively enough to keep browsers hooked; the level of detail will support brief reports; and the scope extends beyond conventional areas of science to include such topics as UFOs, electronic music, psychology, and acupuncture and other alternative medical practices. Among the front-runners in the crowded field of single- and multiple-volume science encyclopedias on the market, this will be a cornerstone for any library or classroom collection, whether as a new addition, or a replacement for the older edition or the Macmillan Encyclopedia of Science (1991).?John Peters, New York Public Library
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