App Review: The Human Body

THE HUMAN BODY from Tinybop is an engaging and entertaining educational app that introduces the body systems to children including both senses and organs.

Through a highly-visual, interactive interface, students are encouraged to explore information about the nervous, skeletal, respiratory, circulatory, digestive, muscular, urogenital, and immune systems. Although no verbal or written instructions are provided, users will quickly figure out that tapping, dragging, and swiping icons will provide information and start animations. For instance, tapping the mosquito sends it flying across the screen causing a bite that sends a signal to the brain. Dragging flowers to the nose shows how the olfactory bulb in the brain is stimulated.

Students will enjoy exploring the many animated layered and closeups.

Many students have difficulty correctly labelling diagrams of the human body. This app provides a fun way to practice anatomy vocabulary. Students drag the labels related to a particular body system onto the model and are provided with audio reinforcement.

This app is chuck-full of extras that are easily missed, so students should be encouraged to tap and swipe all over the screen. For instance, swiping the heart side to side reveals a cross-section showing inside the heart. Clicking the parts of the brain reveals visuals associated with their functions. Dragging a leg demonstrates how the achilles tendon works.

The app allows an adult to establish a separate account for each user. A detailed settings area allows users to choose from dozens of languages, select an avatar, and control sound and visual elements.

Excellent for both library and classroom tablets, this app is likely to be popular with elementary science teachers, parents, and science savvy kids.

It’s easy to miss the outstanding, detailed handbook. An introduction is provided to each body system along with explanations of the icons and interactive elements available in that section of the app. Discussion questions are provided to jumpstart a conversation about the body system. To download the handbook, go to http://tinybop.com/handbooks.

To extend the experience, join Tinybop’s social media content.

To learn more, go to http://tinybop.com/apps/the-human-body.

Book Review: Spectacular Spots

SPECTACULAR SPOTS by Susan Stockade is a beautifully illustrated informational picture book for young naturalists.

This follow-up to Stockdale’s Stripes of All Types uses the same rhyming technique making it an excellent nonfiction book for a science read-aloud experience. Begin by reading the book straight through to enjoy to verse and narrative. Then, go back and discuss the creatures and why their spots are important. Children will also enjoy discussing other books that Stockdale could add to her series featuring animal characteristics.

The simple, colorful illustrations will capture the attention of very young children and thematic focus on spots will appeal to primary-aged youth. Stockade’s interesting use of verbs provides an excellent starting point for a writing activity featuring verb tenses.

The book’s afterword provides thumbnails of each animal along with a discussion of the importance of their spots. A matching game at the end of the book will keep readers thinking about what they’ve read.

Librarians and classroom teachers will find endless opportunities for learning experiences and displays. For instance, ask student to compare the book illustrations with photographs of the same creatures.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.susanstockdale.com/.

Published by Peachtree on March 1, 2015.

Website Review: Distraction

DISTRACTION at http://www.distraction.gov/ focuses on reducing accidents caused by distracted drivers.

Sponsored by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the U.S. Department of Transportation, the website provides resources for learning about distracted driving.

The “Get the Facts” section of the website highlights facts and statistics, research, state laws, and FAQs about this important topic. These pages would be excellent for nonfiction reading experiences focusing on reading comprehension and information inquiry. For instance, ask students to compare the laws in different states regarding texting and driving. Involve youth in creating infographics based on the information they find. Use these as part of a school-wide awareness campaign.

The “Get Involved” section provides resources for taking a pledge to not text and drive. It also contains lots of resources for educators and community members wishing to host a campaign. Finally, a teen section focuses on topics of specific interest to young adults including social media links.

The “Faces” section features testimonials of individuals whose lives have been impacted by distracted driving. The compelling stories are very persuasive.

Finally, the “DOT Action” section provides information about regulations, awareness, and enforcement. Like the “Get the Facts” section, this area would be an excellent informational reading source for student projects.

Be sure to check out the “Stop the Texts. Stop the Wrecks” campaign from the Ad Council. It contains public service announcement videos, facts, and tips. Go to http://www.stoptextsstopwrecks.org.

Book Review: The Alex Crow

THE ALEX CROW by Andrew Smith is a bizarre young adult novel that skillfully weaves together multiple storylines into a strangely powerful statement about society, extinction, and life.

What do a brutal war, a summer boys’ camp, a nineteenth century arctic expedition, and a schizophrenic bomber have in common? It sounds like a bad joke, but it’s actually the outlandish collection of situations that make Andrew Smith such as popular YA author. Like Grasshopper Jungle, the witty situations in THE ALEX CROW feel real but are actually set in an alternative version of our world where a depressed ex-extinct bionic crow seems possible.

Designed for science fiction readers 14 and up, Smith’s conversational writing style along with his unique balance of serious and goofy situations make this fact-paced book fly by. The reoccurring themes of extinction, life, and the “stories we carry” provide a new level of depth for Smith.

Fans of Andrew Smith will be pleased with his latest weird work and new readers will want to go back and read his earlier YA novels. While his books are perfect for reluctant readers, librarians should keep in mind that Smith’s works aren’t for everyone. They’re filled with masturbation jokes, disturbing teen violence, and gruesome, dystopian subplots.

Look for THE ALEX CROW on the best-seller lists for 2015.

To learn more about the author and his works, go to http://www.authorandrewsmith.com/.

Published by Dutton Book on March 10, 2015.

Tech Review: Mathcubes

The MATHCUBES apps from SchoolCubes are a fun and motivating way for children to practice their basic math skills.

Both the ADDITION & SUBTRACTION FOR KIDS and TIMES TABLES FOR KIDS use similar formats. In each case, an adult sets up the app based on the problem presentation approach for the particular region of the world. Both visual and auditory cues introduce and provide feedback for each problem. Multiple languages are available.

Mathcubes uses a well-researched correction system designed to help children succeed. The app constantly checks student answers and adapts to meet the child’s needs. Assistance is provided for those needing help and more challenging exercises are presented for those ready for more complicated problems.

A built-in rewards system motivates students to reach new levels. The positive reinforcement woven through the system provides learning support that keeps children coming back for more.

The simple touch-screen design, appealing visual support, large animated numbers, and useful audio support all contribute to the success of these quality apps. In addition, a smoothing music component contributes to the environment rather than being distracting for users.

The MATHCUBES apps would be an excellent addition to primary grades library iPads. They would also be a great choice for those who supervise special needs students.

To learn more about the apps, go to http://www.schoolcubes.com.
To access the apps, go to https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/apps4needs/id864191082.

Book Review: Mosquitoland

MOSQUITOLAND by David Arnold follows the gripping journey of a teen runaway on a thousand mile quest to visit her mother.

From mental illness and substance abuse to divorce and evolving relationships, this well-written, young adult novel offers the full range of emotions alternating between moments of hilarious self-discovery and overwhelming melancholy. Through interesting narrative, snarky monologues and heartfelt letters, Mim reveals layers of her personality and an engaging backstory that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

Arnold’s quirky characters and witty narrative will appeal to teens seeking a contemporary novel with depth. Mim’s doubts about her own stability and confusion about her relationship with adults will strike a cord with many teen readers.

Librarians are always looking for works of realistic fiction that contain the depth of emotion that many teen readers seek. Mim’s journey and specifically her struggle to understand her own sanity will be a draw for the ya audience.

Road stories represent a popular sub-genre for teens. Add this to your library’s collection of books that reflect both physical and spiritual journeys.

Published by Viking March 3, 2015.

Website Review: National Nutrition Month

March is National Nutrition Month. Go to the EAT RIGHT website from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for lots of ideas for making informed food choices.

The website contains promotional resources such as a toolkit, handouts, and tips using in promoting National Nutrition Month. These are useful in library and school-wide displays focusing on nutrition.

The Good Nutrition Reading List contains a section on books as well as suggested websites.

The Interactive Games, Quiz, and Videos section includes sudoku, word searches, a “Rate the Plate” game, and Fad Diet Timeline. These games are a fun way to attract attention to healthy habits.

The website also links to the ChooseMyPlate website from the US government at http://www.choosemyplate.gov/. This resource contains many more tools and resources.

Go to the National Nutrition Month website at http://www.nationalnutritionmonth.org.

Go to the Eat Right website at http://www.eatright.org/.

For ideas about healthy eating for kids, go to http://www.eatright.org/resources/for-kids.

Book Review: Willy Maykit in Space

WILLY MAYKIT IN SPACE by Greg Trine is a super silly science fiction story guaranteed to entertain young readers.

From classic knock-knock jokes to flying bird poop, the laughs are perfectly aimed at lower, middle-grade readers. The story becomes more outrageous with each action-packed chapter as an android, an alien, and a village of monsters are added to young Willy Maykit’s outer space field trip. In a parallel story, readers learn about Willy’s father who has been captured by foothunters (not headhunters) in the Amazon jungles.

Librarian’s will easily convince reluctant readers to jump into this silly adventure with short, fast paced chapters and appealing visuals.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.gregtrine.com/.

Published by HMH Books for Young Readers.

Website Review: Students Abroad

Whether heading out on Spring Break or prepping for a foreign exchange program, teens need to learn to be wise travelers. The STUDENTS ABROAD website from the U.S. Department of State provides essential information for smart travelers.

This comprehensive tool helps youth and their parents plan for both short and long trips abroad. The site is divided into useful sections.

The Travel Docs area of the website reviews important documents necessary for travel outside the United States.

The Health section explores information about specific countries as well as general tips about a healthy trip.

The Emergencies section features guidelines for a wide range of problems from health and crime concerns to evacuations and natural disaster preparation.

THE STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) is a free service that connects travelers with the U.S. Embassy near their travel location. There’s also an Embassies section of the website where users can easily locate embassies around the world.

The Smart Travel section provides ideas to make travel a snap. From reviewing local laws to packing bags, it’s full of useful tips.

Because so many students travel on Spring Break, an entire section is dedicated to planning for this type of travel.

The “To Go” section provides access to travel guides and useful, printable travel tools.

Finally, the website highlights travel warnings and alerts related to short and long-term events that may impact travel abroad.

The Student Abroad website provides a wealth of materials that can be use by librarians on bulletin boards and other types of library displays. Create a display featuring travel books along with key documents from the website.

You’ll find the STUDENTS ABROAD website at http://travel.state.gov/content/studentsabroad/en.html.

Book Review: Catch You Later, Traitor

Avi has written dozens of outstanding works of historical fiction, CATCH YOU LATER, TRAITOR focuses on the McCarthy Era in 1951 and is one of his best.

With accusations flying and the FBI on his tail, twelve year old Pete Collison must become a detective like Sam Spade and get to the bottom of a real-life mystery. The issues of family loyalty, bullying, friendship, and individual rights will be sure to activate classroom discussions.

CATCH YOU LATER, TRAITOR would be a great way to introduce students to historical fiction. Avi’s writing style draws youth into the child’s world of family and school, while introducing important historical themes. English teachers will enjoy how Pete writes detailed observations like his favorite detective. Get youth involved with “writing like a detective”.

Students will easily connect the powerful messages of individual freedom to contemporary issues and discussions. To learn more about the history of U.S. Government Surveillance, go to http://www.trackedinamerica.org/.

To learn more about Avi, go to http://www.avi-writer.com/. Read his blog athttp://www.avi-writer.com/blog/.

Book Review: Mark of the Thief

MARK OF THE THIEF by Jennifer A. Nielsen is the first book is an exciting new middle-grades fantasy series.

Set near the end of the Roman Empire, a young slave named Nic becomes involved in a dangerous conflict that reaches the highest levels of Roman government. Along the way, Nic acquires a griffin’s powerful mark, Caesar’s bulla, and the ability to perform magic. His journey leads to the heart of Rome where he discovers friends, enemies and family secrets.

This well-written, fast-paced story weaves together a fascinating array of characters that will engage readers from beginning to end.

Youth who enjoy Greek mythology and the Percy Jackson books are sure to enjoy this work of historical fiction fantasy. Librarians and teachers will find this book a great jumping off spot for a discussion of the fact and fiction of the Roman Empire. Both girls and boys are likely to enjoy the characters and plot.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.jennielsen.com/.

Published by Scholastic.

Tech Review: Irish American Heritage Month

March is Irish American Heritage Month. Over 10% of Americans report Irish ancestry.

Check out the Presidential Proclamation at White House website at http://goo.gl/GGnWup.

Wikipedia’s article on Irish Americans at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irish_American includes a history, heritage, and cultural information. It also explores famous people of Irish descent.

During the Irish Potato Famine of the 1840s, many people came to the United States from Ireland to escape the agricultural disaster. The Irish Potato Famine Interactive is a a great way for children to learn about this event. Go to http://www.irishpotatofamine.org/flash.html.

Explore the Lonely Planet: Ireland guide at http://www.lonelyplanet.com/ireland to learn about the country.

Irish America magazine is a periodical and website focusing on Irish interests in North America. Although not designed specifically for youth, it’s a great source of information. Their lists related to Irish-American accomplishments are of particular interest and would be good for bulletin board ideas for the library. Go to http://irishamerica.com/.

For lots of great infographics, do a Google Images search for Irish American at https://images.google.com/.

Book Review: Echo

ECHO by Pam Muñoz Ryan is a beautifully written circular novel tracing the lives of people who come in contact with a unique harmonica.

Crossing two continents, the inter-connected stories weave the theme of music into compelling stories focusing on discrimination, injustice, and hope.

Written for ages 9 through 14, the novel will appeal to a broad cross-section of readers including those who enjoy historical fiction, fairy tales, and a hint of fantasy. Teachers will enjoy the connections to historical events including the Holocaust in Germany and the Japanese Internment in the United States during World War II.

Although it’s a sizable book, the engaging short stories, well-developed characters, and engaging writing style will keep readers spellbound from beginning to end. Librarians are likely to find this book on the “best of 2015” lists.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.pammunozryan.com/.

For a discussion guide, go to http://goo.gl/C8Q6lf.

Published by Scholastic, February 2015.

Book Review: The Darkest Part of the Forest

THE DARKEST PART OF THE FOREST by Holly Black is a young adult fantasy featuring a changeling, a menacing monster, and a mysterious horned boy. Set in a small town near a haunted forest, teen siblings explore their magical powers, uncover long-kept secrets, and strive to survive in a battle between mortals and faerie creatures.

The idea of a faerie fantasy set in the modern world is intriguing. Unfortunately, Black’s world building lacks the depth necessary to fully realize its potential. Although the cast of characters is distinct and at times even compelling, the plot is unnecessarily disjointed. Even with these flaws, readers are likely to enjoy this dark fairy fantasy.

From Doll Bones and The Coldest Girl in Coldtown to the new Magisterium series, Holly Black is popular with both middle grade and young adult readers. As such, this new title is likely to have a large following. Keep in mind that The Darkest Part of the Forest is a young adult urban fantasy that may attract a different audience than some of her recent works.

To learn more about the author, go to http://blackholly.com/.

Published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. Publisher e-ARC used for review.

Book Review: The Bus Ride

THE BUS RIDE by Marianne Dubuc is a beautifully illustrated picture book about a young girl’s first experience alone on a bus.

While many picture books are visually overwhelming, Dubuc’s simple illustrations allow readers to concentrate on the story and characters. Originally published in French, the book translates well into English.

Children will enjoy re-reading the book and following each of the individual characters and families that ride the bus. Even after multiple readings, they’ll find new details to enjoy. It’s particularly fun to follow the words on the newspaper and the movement of the sleeping sloth.

Teachers will find the book filled with opportunities for discussion.

To learn more about the author/illustrator, go tohttp://www.mariannedubuc.com.

NetGalley ARC used for review

Website Review: Frontiers for Young Minds

FRONTIERS FOR YOUNG MINDS is an open-access, non-profit scientific journal aimed at youth ages 8-15.

What makes this journal unique is that young people sit along side experts on the editorial board. As such, youth work directly with leading scientists to shape the cutting edge articles. Each article includes brief bios of both the authors and the reviewer(s).

The high-quality, scientific articles include age-appropriate text, figures and references. These papers would provide great models for librarians partnering with language arts and science teachers on STEM research activities.

Articles are published in four areas including Neuroscience, Earth and its Resources, Astronomy and Space Science, and Health. Both core concept articles focusing on the fundamentals of the field as well as articles exploring new discoveries are published. Website users can select articles from one of the four sections or do a key word search.

The People section of the website provides contact information where you can get your students involved in hosting an article review.

The open access articles are freely available. Articles can be downloaded in the PDF format for easy sharing and printing. They can also be shared through popular social networks.

Frontiers for Young Minds also maintains a blog at Scientific American. This blog is an excellent way to introduce youth to the value of blogs and social media in the sciences. Go to http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/frontiers-for-young-mi…/.

To learn more about this exciting scientific journal for youth, go tohttp://kids.frontiersin.org/

Book Review: Walk on the Wild Side

WALK ON THE WILD SIDE by Nicholas Oldland is the latest addition to the charming LIFE IN THE WILD picture book series.

This ingenious, contemporary fable reminds readers about the importance of friendship, slowing down, and appreciating life. Woven throughout the story are witty remarks, funny observations, and zingers that will keep children giggling. While the story is simple and easy to follow, it contains a strong message about the importance of viewing life as a journey. The nature and hiking theme will make readers of all ages want to get outside and enjoy a good hike.

Oldland’s appealing illustrations contain memorable characters that are likely to appeal to both children and adults. Of particular interest is how the author skillfully incorporates factual information about each animals such as what they eat for a snack. In addition, the bold, attractive font is perfect for the picture book format.

Children will enjoy reading the book multiple times observing details like the activities of the tiny bird accompanying the threesome. The book has endless possibilities for library storytelling activities.

In addition to WALK ON THE WIDE SIDE, librarians will want to purchase the other books in this outstanding series including Up the Creek, Making the Moose Out of Life, and Big Bear Hugs.

Available March 1, 2015 and published by Kids Can Press Books, a NetGalley ARC was used for the review.

App Review: Universal Zoom

UNIVERSAL ZOOM: ALL ABOUT SIZES AND DISTANCES is a fascinating app published by Gamify It. From tiny, subatomic particles to stars and galaxies, this easy-to-use tool allows students to compare two objects to get a sense for the scale of the universe.

Designed for ages 9-11, students can choose from 150 objects presented in scale. The dynamic layout provides users with a sense for the relative size of common objects. Students will enjoy guessing and discovering how many times one object fits inside another. A limited audio element introduces each object encouraging users to read more about each object.

Measurements are available in both standard and meter systems making this an excellent tool for mathematics activities that involve using both units of length. This tool is also effective for a practical exploration of simple and scientific notation. The scale range is 1 yoctometer (1x10-24m) to 93 billion light years (8.8x10=26m)!

This engaging app encourages students to explore the idea of size and scale in a meaningful way. The high-quality images and rich content make this an app that is both appealing and useful for many STEM classroom applications.

To download the app, go to https://itunes.apple.com/…/universal-zoom-all-a…/id807673066.

Book Review: Jasper John Dooley: You're in Trouble

JASPER JOHN DOOLEY is a humorous early chapter book series by Caroline Adderson. The first four books in this series are now available.

Designed for children ages 7 to 10, Jasper John Dooley is introduced in STAR OF THE WEEK. In LEFT BEHIND, Jasper experiences sadness and confusion when his grandmother leaves for a week-long cruise. The third episode titled NOT IN LOVE deals with early elementary relationships between girls and boys.

In the fourth episode, YOU’RE IN TROUBLE, readers experience Jasper’s naughty side. From enjoying a forbidden high-energy drink to bending the soccer rules, Jasper explores the idea of “bad” and learns lessons about making good choices.

Young, independent readers will enjoy the numerous illustrations, realistic characters, and short chapters. The age-appropriate stories focus on common childhood problems and ways to deal with feelings. Many children will relate to this only-child with supportive parents.

Librarians will find that boys are the primary audience for this series. The large type and short chapters will provide a sense of accomplishment for reluctant readers.

Published by Kids Can Press. A publisher ARC was used for this review.

Website Review: NEA's Read Across America

“Grab your hat & read with the cat!” Start planning for NEA’s READ ACROSS AMERICA Day celebrated on March 2, 2015.

Each year the National Education Association sponsors America’s largest reading event. Held in conjunction with Dr. Seuss’ birthday, the event encourages a wide range of reading activities.

NEA’s Read Across America website links to lots of useful resources. Go to http://www.nea.org/readacross.

Reading Rockets provides many activity ideas including writing resources, an author study toolkit, classroom activities, and other useful materials. Go to http://www.readingrockets.org/calendar/readacross.

We Need Diverse Books is a new partner for the event focusing on ways to involve youth in reading books that embrace diversity including (but not limited to) LGBTQIA, people of color, gender diversity, people with disabilities, and ethic, cultural, and religious minorities. Go to http://weneeddiversebooks.org/.

The Plan a Reading Event page contains promotional materials, media tips, face sheets, artwork and downloadables like certificates and posters associated with the event. Go to http://www.nea.org/grants/plan-a-reading-event.htm.

Did you know you can get free books for your library and classrooms? Go to http://www.nea.org/grants/finding-free-books.htm.

The Read Across in the News page contains press and media coverage related to the event. Go to http://www.nea.org/grants/GetReadAcrossScoop.html.

Social media plays a big part in the Read Across America activities.
LIKE the Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/neareadacrossamerica
Follow the Pinterest page at https://www.pinterest.com/readacross/

Have fun!
“You’re never too old, too wacky, too wild, to pick up a book and read with a child.”