Tech Review: National Aquarium

THE NATIONAL AQUARIUM app and website provide fascinating information about thousands of animals.

Sponsored by a nonprofit focusing on the world’s aquatic treasures, the website features a high-quality encyclopedia, webcams, and educational information.

The searchable Animals encyclopedia includes high quality photographs and information about thousands of creatures along with a link to the exhibit where this animal is found.

Their blog contains informative stories about science, conservation, and animals.

The teacher section includes printable booklets and fact sheets.

While the app doesn’t provide the detailed encyclopedia found at the website, it does provide a guide for visits and fun facts about the animals.

To visit the National Aquarium website, go to http://aqua.org/

Go to the Animals section of the National Aquarium website athttp://www.aqua.org/explore/animals.

To download the app, go to https://itunes.apple.com/…/a…/national-aquarium/id933624749….

Book Review: The Marvels

THE MARVELS by Brian Selznick is an amazing journey that crosses hundreds of years.

This middle school novel is told as two stories: one through drawings and the other through prose. From a 1766 shipwreck through multiple generations working in a London theatre, the first half of the book takes a visually stunning look at a family of actors through 1900. The written section of the book begins nearly a century later with a runaway named Joseph who goes to live with his uncle in a mysterious house. Exploration of this strange home reveals clues to Joseph’s past and family. The book concludes with a visual exploration of the house and an author’s note discussing the fact and fiction behind this fascinating children’s novel.

Selznick does an amazing job immersing readers in the world of 18th-century London and the literature of the time. Careful readers will notice the many connection between the visual story and Joseph’s world. Youth will enjoy the authentic emotions expressed by the array of characters.

Librarians will find that fans of Brian Selznick’s unique approach to storytelling will be captivated by this latest work. However, the book may be overwhelming for some children. Consider starting them with Selznick’s earlier works to prepare them for the many visual and text clues that make his books so complex and captivating.

To learn more about the book, go to http://themarvels.scholastic.com/.
To learn more about the book and the author, go to http://www.themarvelsthebook.com/.

Published by Scholastic on September 15, 2015. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: Learn. Genetics

LEARN. GENETICS from the Genetic Science Learning Center provides high-quality, interactive information about genetics as well as the foundational science related to genetics topics.

Sponsored by the University of Utah, the website is divided into the areas of genetics, cell biology, ecology, human health, neuroscience, and science tools. Each section provides fascinating tutorials and interactives related to core concepts.

The Genetics section begins with a tour of basic genetics. Then, examines specific aspects of the field such as characteristics of inheritance and epigenetics. In addition, it explores practical applications such as pigeon breeding.

Each resource includes interesting information and visuals. Most incorporate interactive elements to keep students interested.

Librarians will find many connections to the science curriculum. Consider working with the science teacher to select specific sections that might be used to introduce or reinforce a science lesson.

To visit the website, go to http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/.

Technology Review: Quandry

QUANDARY is both a web and app-based learning game for middle grade students that promotes critical thinking and decision-making skills.

Exploring concepts related to ethical decision-making, users are immersed in a futuristic colony on the planet Braxos. Colonists must make decisions about the future of the colony based on facts, opinions, and alternative solutions. The game contains three episodes addressing different types of dilemmas. In Lost Sheep, colonists must weigh the value and threat of a native predator. In Water Wars, the community must deal with issues of water pollution and cooperation. In Fashion Faction, colonists must consider the pros and cons of conformity.

The scenarios are presented using an attractive, graphic-novel style approach. Participants can explore the perspectives of a dozen different characters by reading their cards contains text and animation. Users sort these cards into three categories: fact, solutions, or other opinion. To proceed students must correctly sort the cards. Users work their way through a series of problems and solutions to come to a conclusion that addresses the dilemma.

Librarians will find that the game can be associated with reading, listening, and speaking standards. Skills related to critical thinking, perspective-taking, and decision-making can be directly connected with the Standards for 21st Century Learners.

The website contains teacher support materials to facilitate discussions related to the game.

To try the web-based version, go to http://www.quandarygame.org/
To download the app version, go to https://itunes.apple.com/WebObj…/MZStore.woa/…/viewSoftware….

Book Review: United States Encyclopedia

The UNITED STATES ENCYCLOPEDIA from National Geographic Kids takes a visually stunning look at America’s people, places, and events.

The attractively presented reference book begins with a chronology of U.S. history containing maps, timelines, graphs, and photographs. Sidebars feature key people, places, and events. This section ends with a look at Washington D.C.
Next, the book provides an in-depth exploration of the regions of the United States including the Northwest, Southeast, Midwest, Southwest, and West. Each section begins with a map and overview of the region. Then, details about each state are provided including a timeline, map, and key facts.
This fascinating reference source concludes with an examination of the U.S. territories along with facts, figures, lists, and key historical documents. In addition, resources, a glossary, index, credits, and a map key are provided.

Librarians will find that this visually-appealing reference book to be popular with middle grade students. Use it as the focus for a display focusing on regions of the United States. Students doing projects on states and regions will find lots of interesting background information to jumpstart their projects. However, they’ll need to go elsewhere for in-depth information about their state or region.

Published by National Geographic Kids on September 22, 2015. ARC provided for review.

Book Review: The Remarkable Story of George Moses Horton

THE REMARKABLE STORY OF GEORGE MOSES HORTON POET by Don Tate tells the inspiring story of the first southern African-American man to become a published author.

George Moses Horton grew up as a slave working on a farm in North Carolina. After learning to read he began to compose poetry. Although his slave owner refused to set him free, he was able to write and sell his poetry professionally until he was emancipated during the Civil War.

Tate’s attractive illustrations include verses that flow across many pages bringing Horton’s words alive for readers.

Librarians will find this picture book to be an excellent addition to their biography collection. Combine it with other author biographies in a library display. Or, include it in a collection of biographies related to slavery.

Learn more about the author at http://dontate.com/.

Published by Peachtree Publishers on September 1, 2015. Review copy courtesy of the publisher.

App Review: Cave Bro

CAVE BRO by Florida Virtual School is a fun interactive app focusing on healthy food choices.

Developed by the Florida Virtual School, this middle grades app uses a game environment to teach concepts related to choosing a healthy and balanced meal. Players work their way through 25 levels. Each level introduces new foods. In addition to game play, users also learn about specific foods and their nutritional value.

The colorful, attractive graphs and fast-paced games will be a hit with youth.

Librarians will find this to be a fun app to address health and nutrition standards. Collaborate with the health teacher to build activities that connect the app with the ChooseMyPlate.gov website and nonfiction books in the library collection.

Future versions of the program may include an exercise element.

To visit the nutritional facts website, go to http://www.choosemyplate.gov/.

To download the app, go to https://itunes.apple.com/WebObj…/MZStore.woa/…/viewSoftware… .

Book Review: I Used to be Afraid

I USED TO BE AFRAID by Laura Vaccaro Seeger is a powerful picture book exploring common fears of children.

The short book tells the story of a young girl who overcomes her fears. The brightly colored, two-page spreads introduce a fear such as spiders or being alone followed by a statement about overcoming the fear. The die cut illustrations will appeal to young readers.

Librarians will find this to be a popular book in the primary grades. Suggest the books to teachers as a read-aloud to stimulate writing and drawing activities related to emotions and feelings. Pair this book with others about common fears. Also, consider a display featuring books by Laura Vaccaro and a makerspace illustration station.

Learn more about the author/illustration at http://www.studiolvs.com/.

Published by Roaring Brook Press an imprint of MacMillan. ARC from publisher.

Book Review: Rhythm Ride

RHYTHM RIDE: A ROAD TRIP THROUGH THE MOTOWN SOUND by Andrea Davis Pinkney chronicles the rise of Motown music in Detroit.

Pinkney’s smooth narrative will draw readers into the world of Berry Gordy and the rise of Motown Records. Featuring well-known artists from Smokey Robinson and Stevie Wonder to the Jackson Five, Pinkney connects key political and cultural movements including the Civil Rights Movement to the evolving Motown sound. In addition to the well-known artists, Pinkney also weaves in fascinating information about song writers, choreographers, and others who worked behind the scenes.

The many captioned black and white photos will attract many readers. Students doing research will appreciate the author’s note, timeline, discography, source notes, further reading, and index.

Appropriate for both middle grades and young adults, librarians will find this work of nonfiction to be an excellent addition to the library’s music biography collection.

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

Published by September 29, 2015 by Roaring Brook Press, an imprint of Macmillan. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Oskar and the Eight Blessings

OSKAR AND THE EIGHT BLESSINGS by Richard Simon and Tanya Simon is the heartwarming story of a new immigrant arriving in America in 1938.

Oskar has just arrived in New York City. It’s the seventh day of Hanukkah and Christmas Eve. As a new immigrant escaping the War, he’s trying to find his aunt’s house. Along the way he meets rich and poor, black and white, as well as anonymous and famous people. Acts of kindness from these individuals help him on his holiday journey to a new life.

The poignant story is filled with diverse characters that reflect the racial, ethnic, and religious diversity of New York City. The interesting sequential art and subtle colors add interest to this beautifully illustrated picture book. An author’s note provides interesting insights into the story, a glossary defines a few key words, and a map shows Oskar’s path.

Librarians will enjoy the connections to both Hanukkah and Christmas along with the historical themes. This moving story will make a wonderful addition to the library’s holiday collection.

Published by Roaring Brook, an imprint of Macmillan on September 8, 2015. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: Torn in Two

TORN IN TWO from the Boston Public Library is a website that explores defining events from the American Civil War.

The Virtual Tour examines people, places, and events connected with the Civil War. In the People section, users can explore the lives of a dozen different people impacted by the war. Students can explore their lives before, during, and after the war. In addition, users can examine maps related to their experiences and a timeline of events. The Places section provides access to period maps of the world, regions of the United States, and individual states. Finally, the timeline features maps, photographs, and other documents related to key events before, during, and after the war.

Curriculum guides are available for elementary, middle, high school, and special curriculum. These include standards-based lessons, students sheets, and supporting materials.

Librarians will find this website to be an effective way to illustrate the role of maps in understanding history. Consider collaborating with the history teacher on a project focusing on primary source materials, map reading, and history.

Sponsored by the Norman B. Leventhal Map Center at the Boston Public Library, the Torn in Two experience can be extended by exploring other maps in the library’s collection.

To visit the website, go to http://tornintwo.org/.
To try the Virtual Tour, go to http://tornintwo.org/about-the-exhibi…/take-the-virtual-tour.
To download Teacher Resources, go to http://tornintwo.org/teacher-resources/curriculum-guides.

Book Review: Extreme Planet

EXTREME PLANET by National Geographic Kids follows Carsten Peter’s adventures exploring intense environments around the world.

In each exciting chapter, author Carsten Peter explores a different amazing landscape including volcanoes, glaciers and ice sheets, deserts, caves, canyons, and other extreme places. The topics feature maps, diagrams, and full color photographs. In addition to an interesting narrative, each chapter also includes expert tips, notes from the field, necessary gear and gadgets, and sidebars containing related facts.

Activities are woven throughout the book. Youth learn to make a tornado in a bottle, use a topographical map, and grow stalactites. The book also includes a glossary, resources, activity ideas, and an index.

Librarians will find that youth enjoy following an explorer visiting exciting destinations around the work. Connect the book with nonfiction works focusing on the science of each destination such as volcanoes and caves.

Published by National Geographic Kids on October 13, 2015.

Technology Review: Images of Change

IMAGES OF CHANGE is an visually-rich science website and app from NASA.

Both the website and app contain similar features.

From natural disasters to growing cities, users take a close-up look at pairs of images that show before and after scenes. Students can see glaciers that have melted, the devastation from floods and wildfires, and the impact of humans in different settings.

Each photo pair contains background information and a map showing its location. Photo pairs are shown side-by-side. With the app version, images can also be viewed individually or overlaid with a curtain slider to make comparisons easier.

Users can browse through the images or select categories including cites, extreme events, ice, human impact, water, land cover, top picks, and most recent. Images can also be viewed on a map.

Librarians will find uses for the images across the curriculum including both science and social science topics and issues. Use the image pairs to jumpstart discussions or as the basis for an exploration of topics related to climate change.

Because the project is from NASA which is a government agency, students can use their images in their projects. The website contains an option to download the image and also shows how to credit the source.

To explore the website, go to http://climate.nasa.gov/state_of_flux.

To download the app, go to https://itunes.apple.com/…/app/images-of-change/id710564941….

Book Review: The Stratford Zoo Midnight Revue Presents... series

THE STRATFORD ZOO MIDNIGHT REVUE PRESENTS graphic novel series by Ian Lendler and Zack Giallongo is an engaging way to introduce youth to the works of Shakespeare.

Designed for the middle grades, Macbeth is the first book in this graphic novel series. A group of animals puts on plays for an animal audience at their zoo. Their first production is MacBeth. This child-friendly retelling includes the basic structure of the play along with hilarious comments from the audience during the performance. Although the most famous lines are evident, the play is shortened to focus on just the key elements.

Romeo and Juliet is the second book in this growing graphic novel series. In this fantasy adaptation of the famous play, animals are both the actors and the audience members. The brightly colored illustrations will draw young readers into the story and provide an engaging introduction Shakespeare for middle grade youth.

Librarians will find this series to be a wonderful way to introduce Shakespeare’s greatest works. Consider building literature circles that focus on each of Shakespeare’s key works.

To learn more about Ian Lendler, go to http://ianlendler.com/.
To learn more about Zack Giallongo, go to http://zackgiallongo.com/.

Published by FirstSecond, an imprint of Macmillan.

Technology Review: Global Shark Tracker

GLOBAL SHARK TRACKER by Ocearch is a science app and website that allows users to track the movement patterns of sharks using a satellite tracking system.

Both the app and website contain the same features.

In the Shark Tracker section, users can track sharks by recent activity, gender, stage of life, or location tags. Shark locations can be explored on a world map. Clicking a shark presents a photo, date, gender, tag date, and location. Clicking the “view more” option provides additional information including the shark’s name, species, stage in life, physical characteristics, and miles traveled. A description provides details such as the shark’s life experiences. It’s also possible to see the path where the shark has traveled.

The Science section provides detailed information about the science behind the project including the approach, methodology, research projects, expeditions, scientists involved, and papers published.

The Education area provides STEM lessons for Grades 3-5 and 6-8.

Users can also use the website and app to connect with the Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and Blogger social media resources.

Librarians will find this science app to be an engaging way to learn about the navigation patterns of sharks. Pair the app with nonfiction books about sharks and shark conservation.

To visit the website, go to http://www.ocearch.org/.

To download the app, go to https://itunes.apple.com/…/global-shark-tracker/id570772231….

Book Review: Watch Out for Flying Kids

WATCH OUT FOR FLYING KIDS by Cynthia Levinson tells the true story of teen circus performers from varied backgrounds who come together to confront issues related to racism, tribalism, and other social obstacles.

Following nine circus performers in two different circuses, this fascinating work of nonfiction describes a unique arts education movement that brings together teens with varied backgrounds. The story is told chronologically over a ten year period ending in 2014.

The many photographs and other illustrations will draw student interest. Sidebars provide background information and insights into the book’s many interesting youth. Engaging section headings within the chapters reflect the thoughts of youth. The book includes a pronunciation guide, prologue, afterword, author’s note, and index in addition to the body of text.

Librarians will find the youth circus theme provides an fascinating context for exploration of social issues. Consider using this book as a focus point for a discussion of diversity. Combine this book along with others focusing on social issues as part of a nonfiction literature circle. Use maps along with other nonfiction books to help students understand issues related to racism and tribalism.

Published by Peachtree Publishers on September 1, 2015. Review copy courtesy of the publisher.

App Review: LeafSnap

LEAFSNAP is a comprehensive field guide app focusing on tree species and their leaves.

Developed by researchers at Columbia University, University of Maryland, and Smithsonian Institution, the free app includes high-resolution images of leaves, flowers, fruits, petioles, seeds, and bark to help with tree identification. An onscreen ruler, color guide, and leaf pattern legend is useful in leaf identification.

The Browse section allows users to search for a particular tree and organize trees by common or scientific name. Users can also switch among the leaf mode and other views.

Using location software and mapping tools, the app will identify trees in your area. However this feature is only effective in some areas.

Users can take photos of leaves and create their own database of leaf photos for quick reference. In addition, the app uses visual recognition software to help identify trees based on photographs of their leaves.

Librarians will find this app to be a great addition to their science app collection. Both iPhone and iPad versions are available.

To download the app, go to https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/leafsnap/id430649829?mt=8.

Book Review: Symphony for the City of the Dead

SYMPHONY FOR THE CITY OF THE DEAD by M.T. Anderson tells the compelling true story of composer Dmitri Shostakovich known for the symphony he created during the Siege of Leningrad.

This outstanding biography chronicles the life of Dmitri Shostakovich and his passion for music and the city he loves. After an engaging prologue that sets the stage, the book details the composer’s childhood through early adulthood. The middle section of the work focuses on the Siege of Leningrad, Shostakovich’s work on what become known as the Leningrad Symphony, and the impact of the symphony around the world. The book concludes with the legacy of the symphony, the end of World War II, and the rest of Shostakovich’s life.

Librarians will find that both performing arts and history students will find the book appealing. Much more than a biography, this story of bravery and patriotism explores not only the life of a person but also the history of a country, a city, and a symphony. Youth who enjoy biography will be drawn to the conversational narrative and inspiring storyline.

There are many excellent biographies for middle school youth and adults, but few quality works written for serious young adult readers. This biography contains the in-depth research expected of an adult work without the length and detail that can bog down high school scholars. The author’s note, source notes, bibliography, and index will be useful for student researchers ready to learn more.

Look for this magnificent biography to appear at the top of many awards lists for 2015.

Listen to Symphony No. 7 Op. 60 at https://youtu.be/HON-9Z1Greo.
Explore the score for Symphony Number Seven at http://goo.gl/pxkSkl.

Published by Candlewick on September 22, 2015.

App Review: Shakespeare

SHAKESPEARE by PlayShakespeare is a free app containing the complete works of Shakespeare.

With 41 plays, 154 sonnets, and 6 poems, students can search by exact or relaxed words or phrases. The free version contains options for changing color combinations along with fonts and text sizes. In addition to the text itself, students can also read detailed scene breakdowns.

The pro-version contains line numbers, a glossary, and other useful additional features.

Librarians will find this to be a practical resource for students seeking the works of Shakespeare for their English classes.

To learn more about the app, go to http://bit.ly/shakesfaqs.

Book Review: By the Numbers

BY THE NUMBERS: 110.01 COOL INFOGRAPHICS from National Geographic Kids is packed with amazing statistics, facts, and figures.

The book begins with an introduction to infographics and a table of contents providing quick access to specific types of visuals such as word clouds, heat maps, and timelines. Each two-page spread contains an attractive infographic containing facts, graphs, charts, word clouds, maps, photographs, timelines, diagrams, or other types of engaging images. Featuring measurements, trends, statistics, and other kinds of data, this book will bring numbers alive to middle grade readers.

Covering a wide range of subjects, each reader will find topics of interest to explore. Woven throughout the book are interviews with people who work with numbers ever day as part of their jobs.

Librarians will find this book to be a great way to connect infographics with math and information literacy. Create a display containing this book along with others featuring infographics. Provide youth with tools for creating their own infographic projects.

Published by National Geographic Kids on October 13, 2015.