The Science Concepts series has been around since 1998; updated, redesigned editions of every title in the series are now being reissued, along with two entirely new entries. This title, one of the brand-new additions, provides an accessible introduction to how living beings adapt to survive in diverse habitats. Following an introduction, the authors cover Darwin's theory of evolution, logically moving on to discuss heredity and DNA. Subsequent chapters, each prefaced with an introduction in larger, contrasting type, explore adaptation to extreme environments; adaptation to seasonal changes; the compensatory senses developed by creatures living in the dark; and adaptations related to food-chain imperatives. Human adaptations, both genetic and artificial (such as clothing), conclude. The narrative gains clarity from abundant examples, colorful photos and diagrams, and fascinating sidebars, including one that details links between the Industrial Revolution and a change in one moth species' color. Researchers will appreciate this useful distillation of a complex topic and make use of the appended bibliography, further reading list, and Web resources.

SILVERSTEIN, Alvin , Virgina Silverstein . Growth and Development . ISBN 978-0-8225-6057-9 . LC 2006030299. ea vol: 112p. (Science Concepts Series). diags. illus. photos. reprods. bibliog. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. 21st Century Bks. 2007. PLB $31.93. Gr 4-8 The information in these titles is clearly and attractively presented. The approachable texts and engaging illustrations make them stand out from other science titles for this audience. In the first book, after discussing adaptation and how it relates to evolution, the book then covers seasonal and extreme habitat changes, and those that plants and animals have made to protect themselves against predators. The last chapter focuses on human adaptation. In the second title, chapter headings organize complex topics into manageable segments such as "Growing Up Human," "Animals without Backbones," "Animals with Backbones," and "How Plants Grow." Both books are extremely readable and packed with fascinating examples. Boxed areas highlight particularly interesting facts, keeping readers engaged. Color photographs, maps, or other illustrations appear on virtually every page. These appealing titles are good for reports and general interest. Ragan O'Malley, Saint Ann's School, Brooklyn, NY