Where Does the Moon Go? (Question of Science Book)

Describes how the travels of the moon make it seem to grow and shrink, and uses an experiment and photographs to illustrate the phenomenon

Grade 2-4-- Sharp astronomical photographs are paired with lively watercolor cartoons to create an attractive and easily understood explanation of the moon and its phases. A roughly sketched boy, his dog, and some curious raccoons are instructed by an owl wearing binoculars. Such questions as, ``What is the moon?'', ``What is it like on the moon?'', ``What does gravity do?'', and ``. . . why does the moon look different on different nights'' are given short answers of just a few sentences. They are followed by explanations of other logical inquiries that arise. Scientific terms appear in boldface type, are clarified in the text, and included in the one-page glossary. The cartoons are not just entertaining; they demonstrate concepts such as gravity, reflection, and the lunar phases. Activities that might help readers understand the phenomena are suggested. Interesting sidebars, such as facts about other planets' satellites and the meaning of the rising and setting sun, are presented. An easy, well thought-out treatment of a high-interest topic.
- Nancy Seiner, The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

These perky picture books--early elementary entries in the science trade field--feature a series of questions and answers posed around unifying themes. In each case the language is irritatingly colloquial and the anecdotal format, though clearly grounded in scientific fact, is diminished by an unflaggingly upbeat tone: "The star that shines every day and makes life possible here on Earth--the Sun!" The somewhat jumbled design of the series also contributes to this off-balance combination of fact and scientific cheerleading, as it features an incongruous assortment of soft-lined cartoons with fluid color-washed paintings and NASA photographs (sometimes one atop the other). In addition, the numerous sidebars sprinkled throughout the text--which contain concise information written in a more expository style--add to the confused mix. Readers seeking better focused introductions should select titles in HarperCollins's reliable Let's Read and Find Out series. Ages 4-8.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.