November 1, 2017
K-Gr 2-Simple text and colorful photos explore key areas of earth science while also making STEAM connections. Texts are well organized, as each volume breaks down the acronym of STEAM, dedicating two spreads to each letter. For example, in Ores the engineering section discusses how iron is used in building construction and the art section mentions jewelry making. A "Key Stats" page in each book provides a list of two or three additional facts. The design of the back matter in each title is lacking. The combination of green text against dark gray backgrounds makes for a somewhat difficult reading experience. VERDICT An additional purchase for earth science collections.
Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
January 1, 2018
These books describe rocks and minerals and the STEAM concepts related to them. The one-chapter-per-STEAM-subject organization feels forced and makes for a scattershot presentation of information. Simple sentences attempt to stay accessible for new readers but sometimes lead to confusion, and the books' eye-catching photographs suffer from poor or misleading labeling. Key stats are appended. Glos., ind.
(Copyright 2018 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)