Copyright Date:
2014
Edition Date:
2014
Release Date:
08/01/14
ISBN:
1-482-41294-2
ISBN 13:
978-1-482-41294-9
Dewey:
920
Language:
English
Reviews:
School Library Journal
ANNISS, Matt . Jane Goodall and Mary Leakey . ISBN 9781482414721 . COLSON, Mary . Albert Einstein and Sir Arthur Eddington . ISBN 9781482414707 . COLSON, Mary . Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace . ISBN 9781482414691 . HARDYMAN, Robyn . Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison . ISBN 9781482414738 . HARDYMAN, Robyn . Pierre and Marie Curie . ISBN 9781482414745 ea vol: 48p. (Dynamic Duos of Science). further reading. glossary. index. photos. Gareth Stevens . 2014. lib. ed. $31.95. Gr 4-6 This series stands out for its attractive graphics and ability to make complex concepts accessible. The authors have done an excellent job of selecting key quotes from the scientists' writings that young readers can understand (provided in sidebars titled "In Their Own Words"). One might not assume that an elementary-school student would be able to appreciate figures such as Charles Darwin or Nikola Tesla, but this set makes it possible. Readers will get a real feel for these scientists and their voices. Sticky subjects such as creationism vs. evolution are handled in a sensitive, evenhanded way. Stunning photos illustrate concepts beautifully. For example, a photo of a duckbill platypus supports descriptions of evolution in the animal kingdom. The dual biography is a particularly ingenious feature. Readers learn that Alfred Russel Wallace and Darwin, rivals as well as supporters, shared much of the same information, making similar discoveries. Reading their parallel stories will let children see how different people solve the same problems. Original takes on science biographies.
Watson and Crick are synonymous with DNA, the instructions for life. But how did these scientists figure out something as elusive and complicated as the structure of DNA? Readers will learn about the different backgrounds of these two gifted scientists and what ultimately led them to each other. Their friendship, shared interests, and common obsessions held them together during the frenzied race to unlock the mysteries of DNA in the mid-twentieth century. Along with explanations about how DNA works, the repercussions of the dynamic duo's eventual discovery will especially fascinate young scientists.