Synergy: Exploring Hands-on Science

HANDS-ON SCIENCE is an approach to learning that actively involves children in inquiry-based learning and problem-solving. Using real-world contexts, children apply critical and creative thinking to investigate questions, conduct experiments, and draw conclusions.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

HANDS-ON SCIENCE is a new nonfiction series for young readers focusing on a wide range of popular science themes. Written by Lola M. Schaefer and illustrated by Druscilla Santiago, each book uses simple illustrations, engaging text, and creative interactive elements to explain key scientific concepts. Along the way, children are encouraged to have fun conducting their own experiments. Whether tilting the book, blowing on the page, or pressing an image, readers are actively involved in learning. Each title immerses children in a different STEM science laboratory where they use the book along with step-by-step instructions to conduct experiments.

GEOLOGY examines concepts connected with rocks, minerals, and Earth science. From earthquakes to volcanoes, children will enjoy connecting science to exciting, real-world situations.

MATTER introduces young scientists to solids, liquids, and gases. From molding clay and making cherry juice to experimenting with bubbles, readers immerse themselves in an engaging chemistry laboratory.

MOTION explores topics such as gravity and wind to explain force and motion. Young scientists will enjoy actively learning in the physic laboratory.

ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

Synergy: Exploring Botany

BOTANY is the study of plant science. This branch of biology includes not only plants, but also fungi and algae.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

KNOWLEDGE ENCYCLOPEDIA: PLANTS AND FUNGI from DK is a highly illustrated reference book for children interested in plant science. From flowers and trees to carnivorous plants, readers will be spellbound by the wealth of fascinating facts, useful infographics, diagrams, and photographs. ARC courtesy of DK.

LANGUAGE OF PLANTS written by Helena Harastova and illustrated Darya Beklemesheva explores the science of plants. Each chapter examines a different aspect of plant communication. Whether exploring the Wood Wide Web or clever pollination, readers will enjoy the variety of presentation formats including text, detailed diagrams, and more. ARC courtesy of Albatros Media, an imprint of Ingram Publisher Services.

STAND AS TALL AS TREES written by Patricia Gualinga and Laura Resau and illustrated by Vanessa Jaramillo shares how activists and community members in the Amazon worked together to protect their native lands. This inspirational, true story shares the importance of environmental conservation and plant preservation. This title is available in both English and Spanish. ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge Publishing.

ROOTING FOR PLANTS: THE UNSTOPPABLE CHARLES S. PARKER, BLACK BOTANIST AND COLLECTOR written by Janice N. Harrington and illustrated by Theodore Taylor III tells the story of a botanist and mycologist who discovered new species of plants and fungi and the source of fruit tree diseases. As a botanist and educator, he inspired a generation of new Black scientists. ARC courtesy of Calkins Creek, an imprint of Astra Publishing House.

HOW NOT TO KILL YOUR PLANT written by Magda Gargulakova and Lena Chytilova and illustrated by Hannah Abba assists young readers in learning the process of acquiring and caring for houseplants. Of particular note is the section exploring individual plants children are likely to encounter. Chapters feature the basics of care, an encyclopedia of houseplants, and cultivation practice. Visuals, step-by-step instructions, and lots of useful advice make this a practical guide for young plant lovers. ARC courtesy of Albatros Media.

Synergy: Celebrating Mathematics

MATHEMATICS is the science of numbers and their use. From counting, arranging, and measuring objects to describing shapes, math is connected with everything we do. Branches of mathematics include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and calculus.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

STORYTELLING MATH is a book series from Charlesbridge featuring children of color applying math to the world around them. Readers are encouraged to become mathematical thinkers. Let’s explore several new books in the series.

WHO JUMPS MORE?, OUR FAVORITE APPLES, WHERE ARE THE EGGS?, and A BEAUTIFUL HOUSE FOR BIRDS written and illustrated by Grace Lin are four recently published books in the Storytelling Math series. Whether searching for eggs or building a bird house, each story celebrates math in the daily lives of children.

LIA & LUIS books are written by Ana Crespo and Giovana Medeiros. In PUZZLED!, the twins who use geometry and sorting skills to decipher a puzzle sent by their grandmother. In WHO HAS MORE?, an argument about favorite snacks has the twins applying measurement, counting, and estimation skills. Like some other books in the STORYTELLING MATH series, this title is available in Spanish, English, and bilingual editions.

TOO-SMALL TYSON written by JaNay Brown and illustrated by Anastasia Magloire Williams tells the story of a missing pet gerbil. Along the way, children learn about proportional thinking.

To learn more about the series, visit the website for author interviews and lots of extras. Go to https://www.charlesbridge.com/pages/storytellingmath.

ARCs courtesy of Charlesbridge, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

Synergy: Celebrating Poetry

POETRY is a literary form that elicits an emotional response through the use of language. This condensed art form can be written, spoken, or performed. Often spoken aloud, the words and phrases are arranged for meaning, sound, and rhythm.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

POETRY PROMPTS written by Joseph Coelho and illustrated Georgie Birkett jumpstarts the writing process for children. Prompts feature a variety of techniques and use examples to help young writers enjoy learning about poetry. Poetry Power-Ups provide tips and encouragement. ARC courtesy of Wide Eyed Editions, an imprint of Quarto Group.

COURAGE OUT LOUD: 25 POEMS OF POWER written by Joseph Coelho and illustrated by Daniel Gray-Barnett shares poems that encourage confidence-building in children. It’s the third book in the Poetry to Perform series. These original poems can be used as personal mantras as well as inspiration for children’s own poetry writing. ARC courtesy of Wide Eyed Editions, an imprint of Quarto Group.

CHAMPION CHOMPERS, SUPER STINKERS AND OTHER POEMS BY EXTRAORDINARY ANIMALS written by Linda Ashman and illustrated by Aparna Varma features poems for children about a wide range of animals. This interactive picture book features poems with hints about an animal that are followed up with facts and special characteristics. The book concludes with information about protecting endangered animals, measurements, and mask poems. A glossary is also included. Involve children in incorporating animal facts into their own nature poetry. ARC courtesy of Kids Can Press, an imprint of Hachette Book Group.

WELCOME TO THE WONDER HOUSE is written by Rebecca Kai Dotlich and Georgia Heard, then illustrated by Deborah Freedman. The poetry collection for children encourages creativity and inquiry across the curriculum. ARC courtesy of Wordsong, an imprint of Astra Publishing House.

Synergy: Exploring Health

HEALTH describes a person’s physical, mental, and social well-being. A person in good health is free from disease or injury.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

UNSEEN JUNGLE: THE MICROBES THAT SECRETLY CONTROL OUR WORLD written by Eleanor Spicer Rice and illustrated by Rob Wilson explores the science of microbes. Part of the Your Hidden Life series, this fact-filled, humorous work of nonfiction examines the fascinating microscopic world of these tiny organisms and impact your health and the life of other creatures. Chapters include microbes in the house, yard, food, and you! ARC courtesy of MIT Kids Press, an imprint of Candlewick Press.

THE OTHER PANDEMIC: AN AIDS MEMOIR by Lynn Curlee traced the AIDS pandemic from the 1970s through the 1990s telling the story of the author’s partner alongside the larger crisis. The book begins with examples of people with AIDS and a comparison with the COVID-19 years. It concludes with tributes and additional information about AIDS. ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge Teen, an imprint of Charlesbridge.

WHAT’S A GERM, JOSEPH LISTER?: THE MEDICAL MYSTERY THAT FOREVER CHANGED THE WAY WE HEAL written by Lori Alexander and illustrated by Daniel Duncan explores the history of surgery and how Lister proved that unsanitary conditions contribute to infections. Along the way, readers learn about germs and how scientific discoveries are made. This engaging, highly illustrated biography includes the perfect balance of humor, gore, and fascinating facts. ARC courtesy of Clarion Books, an imprint of HarperCollins.

Synergy: Exploring Farms

FARMS are places that grow crops and nurture livestock. Farmers sell their agricultural products to companies or at markets directly to individuals. Sustainable farming practices are intended protect the environment.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

THE WORLD THAT FEEDS US written by Nancy Castaldo and illustrated by Ginnie Hsu explores approaches to green, sustainable farming practices from around the global. Each of the four chapters explores farming methods and settings in a different season. ARC courtesy of words & pictures, an imprint of Quarto Group.

THANK A FARMER written by Maria Gianferrari and illustrated by Monica Mikai uses colorful illustrations of farmers in action to share the wide range of produce created at farms. Readers are invited to think about the foods they eat, then “thank a farmer.” The book concludes with information about the different farm products featured in this attractive picture book. ARC courtesy of Norton Young Readers, an imprint W.W. Norton.

FUTURE LAB: TOMORROW’S FARM by Rodrigo Cordeiro explores the many ways farms will evolve with the introduction of new technologies and other innovations. From drones and solar panels to robots, readers learn about cutting-edge tools and techniques used by farmers. Designed for young children, each two-page spread explores a farm scene and features key words. ARC courtesy of duo press, an imprint of Sourcebooks.

Synergy: Celebrating Food

FOOD is any nutritious matter that plants, animals, or people eat, drink, or absorb to sustain life. Food contains essential fat, protein, carbohydrates, or other nutrients. All living things need energy to grow, heal, and work.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

PIZZA, PICKLES, AND APPLE PIE: THE STORIES BEHIND THE FOODS WE LOVE by David Rickert explores the history of food. In addition to historical information, this engaging work of graphic nonfiction incorporates facts about science and nutrition along with fun, hands-on activities. ARC courtesy of Kane Press, an imprint of Astra Publishing House, Inc.

DAVID ATHERTON’S BAKING BOOK FOR KIDS: DELICIOUS RECIPES FOR BUDDING BAKERS written by David Atherton and illustrated by Harry Woodgate shares dozens of recipes for tasty treats including breads, cakes, cookies and sweet treats, pastries, and showstoppers. Along with step-by-step instructions, recipes provide ingredients and sometimes tips. ARC courtesy of Candlewick Press.

LOOK AND COOK SNACKS: A FIRST BOOK OF RECIPES IN PICTURES by Valorie Fisher features a couple dozen easy-to-make recipes for children. After an introduction to cooking, this highly visual cookbook uses photographs and diagrams to present ingredients and procedures. ARC courtesy of Astra Young Readers, an imprint of Astra Publishing House, Inc.

Synergy: Celebrating Biographies

BIOGRAPHIES tell the true story of a person’s life. These stories may celebrate people who lived long ago, or have recently become known to the world. While biographies may explore the lives of famous people, they may also examine lesser-known individuals with unique stories.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for young people:

HOW DO YOU SPELL UNFAIR? MACNOLIA COX AND THE NATIONAL SPELLING BEE written by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Frank Morrison tells the moving true story of a child who endured prejudice and discrimination to participate in the national spelling bee. Weaving in the use of thought-provoking “spelling words”, young readers will be riveted by the child’s real-world experience and challenge. ARC courtesy of Candlewick, and imprint of Penguin Random House.

THE LOBSTER LADY written by Alexandra S.D. Hinrichs and illustrated by Jamie Hogan is picture book biography chronicling the daily life of a 102 year old lobster harvester. Along the way, the Lobster Lady shares memories of her life in Maine. ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge.

CHRISTO AND JEANNE-CLAUDE WRAP THE WORLD: THE STORY OF TWO GROUNDBREAKING ENVIRONMENTAL ARTISTS written by G. Neri and illustrated by Elizabeth Haidle is a picture book telling the story of two innovative artistic collaborators who created innovative public art installations. Back matter includes additional information about the duo, an author’s note, resources, and interesting facts. ARC courtesy of Candlewick, and imprint of Penguin Random House.

THE VAN BUREN SISTERS VS. THE PANTS POLICE written by J.F. Fox with illustrated by Anna Kwan shares the inspiring true story of sisters who challenged traditional gender roles and traditions. In 1916, the Van Buren sisters traveled across America on motorbikes wearing leather pants and coats. A century later their descendants celebrated this accomplishment by re-creating their ride. This engaging picture book concludes with background information, a glossary, and sources. ARC courtesy of Kids Can Press, an imprint of Hachette Book Group.

Synergy: Exploring Space Science

SPACE SCIENCE includes a broad range of disciplines from astronomy and astronautics to geology and life science. Space exploration is the study of everything from the upper atmosphere through the expanding universe.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for children:

SPACE ON EARTH: HOW THINKING LIKE AN ASTRONAUT CAN HELP SAVE THE PLANET written by Dave Williams and Linda Pruessen shares innovations designed for the International Space Station that have inspired sustainable solutions on Earth. Each of the five chapters focuses on a different type of inspiration including water, air, food, waste, and energy. The book’s conversational approach and use of compelling examples are likely to attract science readers. Illustrations by Sho Uehara bring the technological innovations to life through drawings, diagrams, and photographs. ARC courtesy of Annick Press.

BIG BANGS AND BLACK HOLES written by Jérémie Francfort and illustrated by HERJI is a work of graphic nonfiction exploring the science and history of physics. This science adventure for young adults uses easy to understand text and informative visuals to share complex ideas about our universe. ARC courtesy of Helvetiq. 

CURIOSITY: THE STORY OF A MARS ROVER by Markus Motum is a picture book introducing young readers to the famous NASA mission. Retro illustrations combined with a fast-paced, science-rich narrative will attract young readers. Back matter includes additional information, a timeline, and a glossary. ARC courtesy of Candlewick Press.

Synergy: Exploring the Polar Regions

The POLAR REGIONS around the geographical poles in the North and the South. Dominated by ice and icy waters, these areas receive less intense solar radiation than other parts of the Earth.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for children:

POLAR: WILDLIFE AT THE ENDS OF THE EARTH written by L.E. Carmichael and illustrated by Byron Eggenschwiler explores life in the polar regions. Told through the passing of each month in a year, this engaging nonfiction picture book examines how life survives in these harsh areas of the world. Each theme includes the stories of creatures in both the Arctic and Antarctica. Back matter includes a glossary and resources. ARC courtesy of Kids Can Press, an imprint of Hachette Book Group.

MISSION: ARCTIC written by Katharina Weiss-Tuider and illustrated by Christian Schneider is a scientific adventure examining the changing North Pole. Using a scrapbook approach, middler readers learn about an Arctic expedition, climate research, and the future of climate change. Photographs, infographics, and an array of other visually-rich illustrations are the key to this book’s success. ARC courtesy of Greystone Kids. 

POLAR BEAR written by Candace Fleming and illustrated by Eric Rohmann tells the story of a polar bear family emerging from hibernation. This beautifully illustrated picture book shares the daily life, habitat, and challenges of life in the Arctic. ARC courtesy of Neal Porter Books.

GLACIERS ARE ALIVE written by Debbie S. Miller and illustrated by Jon Van Zyle uses stunning two-page spreads to explore life on a glacier. Picture book readers follow a glacier as it flows from the mountain to the ocean. ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge Publishing.

Synergy: Celebrating Mail

MAIL are items sent, carried, or delivered by a postal system. Many types of transportation may be used in transporting bags and boxes of letters, packages and other items. Maps and postal routes increase the efficiency of mail.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for children:

WHO’S GOT MAIL? by Linda Barrett Osborne explores the history of the postal service in the United States. Short chapters, interesting side-bars, engaging primary source visuals and the nonfiction narrative format bring this history of the U.S. Postal Service to life. Of particularly note is the emphasis on diversity and less-known facts. Back matter extends the experience. ARC courtesy of Abrams. 

SPECIAL DELIVERY by Polly Faber is a picture book tracing a book’s journey around the world from printing and shipping to sales. Children will be attracted to the bright colors and use of flowchart type infographics. ARC courtesy of Candlewick, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

FROM HERE TO THERE: A FIRST BOOK OF MAPS by Vivian French examines the world of maps and mapmaking. When her play date invitation includes a map, Anna decides to learn more about maps and how they are made. Readers are encouraged to make their own map. ARC courtesy of Candlewick, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

Synergy: Celebrating Trees

TREES are a woody perennial plant consisting of a single tall stem or trunk and bearing lateral branches. A root system anchors the tree and stores nutrients. These long living plants often serve as keystone species supporting a variety of other life.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to a theme. Explore these recently published books for children:

COOL GREEN written and illustrated by Lulu Delacre is a picture book exploring thirteen of the world’s most amazing trees. Told through the eyes of a landscaper and his grand daughter, the narrative celebrates the world of trees. Of particular note is the use of mixed media including natural elements such as tree needles woven into the illustrations. The book concludes with an author’s note, glossary, and additional information about the highlighted trees. ARC courtesy of Candlewick, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

TREES: HAIKU FROM ROOTS TO LEAVES by Sally M. Walker and illustrated by Angela Mckay combines science, history, and haiku to tell the story of trees. This richly illustrated picture book concludes with background information, an author’s note, a glossary, and suggested readings. ARC courtesy of Candlewick, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

THE TREE AND THE RIVER written and illustrated by Aaron Becker is a magnificent, wordless picture book visualizing ecology and civilization through the lens of nature and humankind. Although set in an alternative world, the relationships in this imagined universe are thought-provoking for readers of all ages. ARC courtesy of Candlewick, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

THE BIG TREE by Laura Knetzger is a comic for beginning readers. While mourning the loss of a tree, friends learn about new beginnings in nature. ARC courtesy of Holliday House, Pixel Ink, and Peachtree.

BIG TREE written and illustrated by Brian Selznick tells the epic story of two Sycamore seeds. While demonstrating the power of life across time and space, this imaginative adventure is at its literal roots a story of hope. ARC courtesy of Scholastic Press.

Synergy: Adventures in the US

The UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is a country containing fifty states, a federal district, five territories, nine outlying islands, and 326 Indian reservations.

To understand a concept, it’s useful to read a cluster of books related to the topic. Explore these recently published nonfiction picture books for children:

The “Only in” the 50 States series written by Heather Alexander and illustrated by Jen Taylor features weird and wonderful facts about each state. Each two-page spread highlights a place, historical topic, natural area, or other interesting feature. From amazing natural landscapes to fascinating cities and rural areas, this engaging series celebrates the unique aspects of each state.

ONLY IN CALIFORNIA is the first book in this new nonfiction series. Through interesting illustrations, fascinating facts, and intriguing infographics, readers learn about the sports, food, plants, animals, history, and key people of the Golden State.

ONLY IN TEXAS highlights the interesting features of the Lone Star State. This second book in the 50 States series explores the culture, history, and nature of the second-largest US state. Topics include cultural landmarks and traditions, natural landscapes, products, and history through facts, illustrations, and infographics.

Related books include ONLY IN AMERICA and 50 ADVENTURES IN THE 50 STATES.

ARC courtesy of Wide Eyed Editions, part of a Quarto Group.

Synergy: Border Barrier

A BORDER BARRIER is a fence, wall, or other structure intended to stop movement between two spaces such as countries. They are designed for defense or to prevent illegal activities such as immigration and smuggling. Unintended consequences of these structures include limiting the natural movement of wildlife.  

Read the recently published nonfiction picture books for children, then learn more at the websites:

BORDER CROSSINGS written by Sneed B. Collard II and illustrated by Howard Gray shares the story of how wildlife are impacted by the US-Mexico border wall. Specifically, the powerful picture book follows endangered ocelots who attempt to cross the border. ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge.

OCELOT from the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance provides useful background information about the endangered ocelot. To read the web page, go to https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/ocelot.

THE RIVER AND THE WALL is a full-length documentary following five friends who document wildlife migration and immigration issues along the US-Mexico border. Use this video to better understand the issues as you read the suggested picture book with children. To view the documentary, go to https://youtu.be/3TK4oMtSJfI