April 1, 2021
Gr 2-5-Large, clear photos showing petri dishes of bacteria, patients receiving vaccinations, or archival images of early researchers fill the pages of this series. Information is organized into short chapters with brief paragraphs on each spread and additional facts in "Did You Know?" text boxes. Each title features an infographic, such as a flowchart on the production of penicillin. There is also a hands-on activity for each topic, such as using glitter and soap to demonstrate how germs spread. The books also mention how COVID-19 relates to each topic. Glossary words appear in bold within the text and are defined in the back matter. General recommendations for parents and teachers appear in each book, as well as directions on how to access the FactSurfer website for more information on each subject. VERDICT A good series to update library collections and answer student questions.
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August 1, 2021
Grades 1-3 The timely Super Science Feats: Medical Breakthroughs series (4 new titles) not only focuses on topics related to COVID-19 but specifically mentions the virus in each installment. Using large images (including historical photos and stock images) and clear, straightforward text, the books introduce a health problem and explain how scientists problem-solved to address it and how the treatment works. X-Rays tells how this invention was discovered accidentally but solved the problem of being able to see inside the body. What to expect during an x-ray and modern improvements are explained as well. Graphs and labeled images clarify concepts from the text, while short sidebars add interesting facts. Each volume concludes with a hands-on activity that further conveys the book's overall theme. A solid series to help children understand modern health care and practices.
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