It's Snowing!

April 1, 2010
Gr 1-3-Children curious about dramatic weather, or those writing reports, will find what they need in Higginss succinct texts, though the same information is available elsewhere. Each opening spread places readers in the middle of the action. "Thunderstorm", for example, invites them to imagine that Its afternoon, but the sky is very dark. Suddenly theres a flash of light! Successive chapters describe related science (sometimes accompanied by diagrams) and scientists, events, and a minimum of safety information. Sidebars drizzled throughout offer additional tips and facts. "Tsunami" is problematic. While it doesnt mention death, it will be too alarming for this age group. The opening scenario describes playing on the beach directly before ]strange things start happening, and later illustrations depict children running away from the ocean, and widespread destruction. The book also describes how a tsunami can pick up houses. In addition, the computer-generated cover and interior images in these books are distinctly ugly. Stick with other series that offer the same information in a package that will attract young readers.

Copyright 2010 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2010
This series describes various weather phenomena using clear, descriptive prose. Warm illustrations show weather-related events and people reacting to them; some diagrams and maps are also included. The volumes will engage readers curious about when, where, and how certain weather systems are likely to occur. Educators will find these texts useful for explaining complex subject matter in an accessible way. Glos., ind.

(Copyright 2010 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)