Reviews+

Capitalizing on the action-packed nature of football and (men's and women's) basketball, these slim volumes focus more on splashy color graphics than on information. The overly broad series theme includes "Science" titles, which are a random assortment of energy, mechanics, technology, and math discussions; "Numbers" books, which are mostly statistics-related; and "Superstars" entries, featuring brief profiles of players. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

Each slim easy reader opens with a photo glossary highlighting four sport-specific vocabulary words, accompanied by instructions: "Look for these words and pictures as you read." The following spreads are organized around these keywords, with bright stock photos and a smattering of facts. The volumes lack substance but effectively reinforce the meaning of a small number of relevant terms.

This series focuses on women's contributions to the sports world, thanks largely to the profound impact of Title IX, the 1972 law mandating gender equality in education (explored in Axon's volume). Other entries highlight the accomplishments of historical and contemporary individuals, including Olympians, professional athletes, and journalists. The writing is accessible if not very exciting; brief chapters include sidebars and captioned action photos. Reading list. Glos., ind.

Each entertainer's superficially sketched biography is presented in three or four brief chapters punctuated with publicity photographs and sidebars with quotes from the subject. A page of basic background facts precedes a simple narrative covering early breaks in the field, successful milestones, and present-day stardom. "Think About It" questions are appended. There are four other fall 2017 titles in this series. Reading list. Glos., ind.

Using a conversational tone, this engaging biography series discusses the life of each designer, his or her creative contribution within social history, and the evolution of the style to modern day. Additional facts appear at the bottom of pages as well as in "Fashion Factoid" sidebars throughout. Captioned photographs, a large font, and bright colors add appeal to the layouts. Timeline. Glos., ind.

Lipstick stains on your clothes? Always getting nail polish on your fingers? [cf2]Fashion[cf1] and [cf2]Nail[cf1], respectively, offer "hacks" to these problems and others; chapters cover such topics as repairing damaged clothes and healing dry hands and feet. Though the design--full of flashy graphics, doodles, and varying fonts--is cluttered, the text does contain clever tips and useful advice. Reading list.

In each unusually practical guide, easy-reader text introduces an emotion, explores situations that may cause the emotion to arise, highlights physical or behavioral responses the emotion may elicit, and suggests ways to handle the feeling. Relevant full-page stock photos featuring a diverse cast of children brighten every spread. Questions sprinkled throughout encourage readers to make personal connections. Reading list. Glos., ind.

These thorough biographies of pioneering women in scientific and technical fields delve deeply into their personal and professional lives. The series includes frank and balanced discussions of both the successes and challenges each woman faced, as well as the qualities and intellect that drove her significant accomplishments. Numerous photographs of the scientists and additional information about their fields are included. Reading list, timeline. Bib., glos., ind.

Young scientists will learn about weather, rocks, erosion, and solar energy through simple activities. Each project includes a materials list (most are common household items); steps to complete the activity, illustrated with photos; and a paragraph explaining how it works. Safety tips are offered as needed. Nothing groundbreaking, but good fun for primary-grade STEM curricula. Reading list. Glos., ind.