ALA Booklist (Sat Dec 01 00:00:00 CST 2007)

What do tendons do? What causes muscle cramps? For an older audience than many illustrated science books, this inviting entry in the 101 Questions series makes human physiology accessible, with questions everyone has always wondered about and up-to-date, detailed answers that discuss the complex science in chatty but never condescending style. Like the text, the clear diagrams and photographs deal with everything from basic information (how the muscle cells control the rate of the heart's rhythmic contractions) to the more advanced (how gene therapy might work to treat myasthenia). Then there are lengthy insets that deal with topics such as steroids and Lance Armstrong. This is sure to grab the attention of athletes. It will also be great for science-class discussion, and the detailed back matter, with 10 pages of notes and a bibliography, will help further research.

School Library Journal (Sun Jun 01 00:00:00 CDT 2008)

Gr 7 Up-Chock-full of interesting facts, this book answers 101 questions with concise, factual statements that explain the characteristics, functions, and growth of muscles. Small black-and-white photos, charts, and diagrams appear throughout, but there is no full-body diagram. Copious endnotes model responsible research practice. Although divided into chapters, the question-and-answer format does not lend itself to report writing. However, the index helps students find specific information. An interesting book on a topic about which adolescents, especially for aspiring athletes. Robin Henry, Griffin Middle School, Frisco, TX

Voice of Youth Advocates

For readers curious about the anatomy of muscles and movement, this book is packed with interesting explanations about the body. Organized by chapters that move from the basics, including terms and definitions, to specific muscles and diseases, and to a final chapter addressing fun, quirky questions, the book also highlights interesting "features" after every chapter, including "The Straight Scoop on Steroids." Brynie frames her informative chapters with a brief anecdote and a call to action. She introduces Jan Swammerdam, a seventeenth-century physician who uncovered truths of the human body. At the time, it was believed that "animal spirits" caused active muscles to increase in volume, but Swammerdam challenged this belief. Through his scientific studies of insects and humans, he proved that muscles function as a result of their own internal machinery. In her conclusion, Brynie encourages readers to remember Swammerdam, and to challenge old ideas in the same way. This questioning process advances scientific discoveries and allows humankind to learn new things about the body. Although the accompanying illustrations are a bit lackluster, this book should enjoy popularity with readers interested in science or sports. The tone provides for straightforward reading, while the scientific terminology is explained in depth and is also accompanied by a useful glossary. The information offered ranges from the scientifically interesting-How do muscles develop before birth?-to the downright weird-The mantis shrimp is the fastest puncher in the animal world-and is sure to keep readers engaged.-Courtney Huse Wika.