Starred Review Does the world really need more books about well-worn elementary science topics such as light, plant life cycles, fossil fuels, and animals? Yes they are done as well as these new books in the Science Readers series. The books have a friendly tone that strikes the perfect balance between matter-of-factness and wonder. They get beyond the surface of serious scientific topics without becoming boring or pedantic. The writing is engaging enough to draw in even non-science lovers, and the photos and diagrams consistently illustrate and enrich the text. Light and Its Effects provides a more straightforward explanation of topics such as color and refraction but still employs interesting examples, illustrative photos, and helpful diagrams. A carefully described but open-ended project and observation-based activity conclude, encouraging readers to extend their learning and undertake their own scientific exploration.