November 1, 2011
Gr 2-3-Each of these deceptively simple-looking volumes uses historical facts to place demonstrations or experiments in context and encourages children into try to answer questions using the scientific method. The series covers specific concepts (such as evaporation or parallax), introduces famous scientists and explains why they are significant, and then invites readers to join the grand march of science by, for example, figuring out their family car's mileage, comparing relative density by melting butter and chocolate in a microwave, or creating "rain" with a bowl covered in plastic wrap. Though the standard advice about setting up experiments and conducting research, and the mix of color photos and simple cartoon images may put off older students, this series offers intellectually stimulating activities and a savvy approach to instilling in readers a properly scientific outlook.
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