Kay Barnham

This is an informational text book that walks the reader through the process of a seed growing into a plant. It uses the example of a sunflower growing in a garden. What I like about this book is that it includes information about oxygen and carbon dioxide, but also discusses it in a manner that would still appeal to younger elementary. It incorporates the science with the story very well but not in away that is overbearing. It also talks about the importance of knowing the cycle. It is show more informative but fun. I think that I would incorporate this book further into a unit as it does include some technical information. It could potentially be used alongside an experiment where students are growing bean plants and students could track where their plant may be in the cycle. show less

Feeling Worried is a great little picture book aimed at children from 5 to 9 years and is part of the Everyday Feelings series.

Ava has many people in her life who are worried about things, her brother and her friends. She listens to them and offers advice and help that works. When Ava has a worry about going to the dentist, her parents come up with a wonderful idea of role playing to help her feel better and get over her worries. The message of talking to someone when something is worrying show more you is a good one. I wish that others had helped instead of just Ava. Perhaps the teacher or a different friend, but that is a small issue. The worries are different, but presented in a way that makes it seem that everyone worries about something and it is not a big deal to ask for help and support. The illustrations support the story well. The expressions on the characters' faces makes it easy to understand their emotions. The colours chosen are also soothing and the warm. This would make a great book in a classroom when something new is happening or if the teacher notices students are upset or worried about something. A great addition to a class library or teacher resource area. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley. show less

This is a great nonfiction informational for pre-k through 2nd grade students. It talks about the life cycle of plants starting from when they are first seeds to when they are fully bloomed. It gives information on what plants require to grow; proper soil, water & sunlight while exploring the life cycle. This is a great introductory to get kids curious about nature and how things in life come to be. This would be a great book to use when spring is approaching S that is when plants begin to show more bloom from the winter ground. This book allows teachers to encourage further exploration and learning on how plants and even other things grow! A fun activity to follow this book would be for each student to be able to plant their own plant and watch it bloom and grow in the classroom and eventually take it home and perhaps plant it in their yard! I enjoy this book for the opportunity it gives for engaged, informational learning! show less

Learn about the science of lightening in Capstone Press’ Fried: When Lightening Strikes. This nonfiction book includes ample pictures as well as factual information on lightening, its dangers and proper precautions one should take during a thunderstorm. The book includes a table of contents which displays clever chapter titles such as “Zap, crackle, and pop” and “Full metal jacket” although the student audience might not understand the references. The illustrations are extensively show more labeled not just with captions, but also details pointed at specific elements. Definitions of vocabulary is pulled out on pages and also included in a glossary at the back of the book. The book also includes an index. The feel of the book is a bit more extreme than traditional non-fiction books with lightening streaked headings and even a picture of a foot after it has been struck by lightening. Ages: 8-12. show less