NSTA - Richard Lord
Global warming is just one factor that will result in changes to the species on Earth. Using many examples of how and why things change, this book explains that all living things have variations and are adapted to their respective niches. These variations, controlled and passed on by genes, are explained by the theory of evolution. This theory was developed as a result of Charles Darwin's synthesis of his observations and collections made during his five-year voyage on the HMS Beagle, with the supporting ideas of Charles Lyell, Thomas Malthus, and others. Evidence supporting Darwin's ideas of natural selection (such as fossils, comparative anatomy, homology, and DNA) is presented, and a brief explanation of Stephen Jay Gould's ideas on punctuated equilibrium is included. The various characteristics and changes throughout the sequential geological eras of Earth history are presented, and the ancestry of humans is depicted with pictures and descriptions of the skulls of fossil hominids. A discussion of how evolution is used to make predictions uses examples such as uncovering useful drugs from the rain forest and understanding the problem of antibiotic resistance. Without forfeiting scientific accuracy, the authors do a splendid job of reducing somewhat complex ideas into a form that young people will be able to understand. Two activities are also included in the book-one on observing variations and adaptations of pets and another on modeling evolution. A lot of fundamental information can be found in the books of the Sci-Hi series. Each would be very useful as a springboard for further research on numerous topics. The series is targeted to students in grades 6-9. Each colorful, 48-page book is enlightening, visually attractive, and easy to read. The authors approach each subject by putting core information into a magazine format with large titles, a variety of fonts, clear introductions, catchy graphics, informative sidebars, and specific examples of the content. Despite their length, there is a lot packed into these high-interest volumes. At the end of each there is a glossary, lists of books and websites for further information, and a comprehensive index. Other features in the various books are timelines, content reviews, and quizzes. Having this series available would provide a good foundation and support the learning of key concepts of the National Science Education Standards for life science. The books would be an engaging and useful resource for a middle school science classroom or school library. -Richard Lord, High School Biology Teacher <i> NSTA</i> 7/30/2009
July 30, 2009School Library Journal - Judith V. Lechner
Clear language, embedded definitions, and interesting examples illustrate abstract concepts through both text and well-chosen photographs. The authors do not avoid difficult or controversial issues: Changing Life, for example, provides a clear and useful explanation of the theory of evolution, with multiple sources of evidence and a discussion of how it helps scientists to predict the implications of changes to the environment. Science Ethics discusses topics such as global warming and animal research, and their implications for decision-making by scientists, policy makers, and voters. Because so many issues are raised in this book, it will be especially useful as a research starter in both science and social-studies classes. In addition to describing relevant theories and the scientific explanations for observed phenomena, each book also discusses the impact of human activities on the issues discussed, whether the way humans impact ecosystems (Ecology) or how smoking and drinking affect sperm count and the unborn child (Human Reproduction). The main focus, however, is on the scientific concepts rather than applications–for instance, Human Reproduction does not discuss contraception except to note the statistic that "sexually active teenage girls who do not use contraceptives (birth control) have a 90 percent chance of becoming pregnant within a year." Each book also includes suggested activities to test ideas as well as a thorough glossary and a Webliography.–Judith V. Lechner, Auburn University, AL<i> School Library Journal</i>September 2009
November 14, 2011
