Visual Science Encyclopedia Volume 4: Forces

Intended for elementary- and middle-school students, this set consists of thematic volumes such as "Weather," "Elements," "Light and Sound," "Water," "Plants," "Earth and Space," "Computers and the Internet," among others (but no volumes on the human body or on animals). As the title implies, there is an abundance of full-color photographs and diagrams. Within volumes, entries are in an A-Z arrangement, with cross-references to other terms highlighted in boldface. In general, entries are one- or two-sentence definitions of terms, although some topics (Eye, eyesight; Lava; Petroleum) are treated in greater detail. Because of the brevity of most entries, some may argue this set is more a dictionary than an encyclopedia.

Each volume stands alone, with neither a cumulative set index nor cross-references to topics in other volumes. The volume on weather presents a discussion of El Nino along with maps and an illustration. In the volume on water, El Nino is briefly defined in relationship to ocean currents. The two articles do not present the same information--one claims El Nino occurs "about every four years," while the other states it "happens about once every five years."

This is a useful resource for students seeking quick definitions and clear illustrations that help explain terms, but it is weakened by the lack of integration among volumes. RBB
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved