Until the Cows Come Home

November 1, 2012

Gr 4-6-Ever wonder where the phrase "goody two-shoes" comes from or why we say we're "all pooped out" when we feel tired? This series explores the usage and origin of dozens of well-known and less-familiar idioms. Typically, a spread is devoted to information about each expression. First, the idioms are used in a mini-story context and then elaborated on for meaning. Photographs and cartoon illustrations help further explain the phrases. The pages are well designed, and the texts are lively. Since many of the idioms have mathematical, historical, or scientific connections, this series may be used across curriculums, with plenty of opportunities for writing activities. While further reading is suggested, source notes are not included, making follow-up difficult.

Copyright 2012 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

October 1, 2012
Grades 3-5 Adults throw idioms around like . . . well, like there's no tomorrow. But what the heck do these strange expressions mean and where do they come from? These are the questions that the It's Just an Expression series attempts to answer; this title breaks down 13 idioms that refer to animals, from sick as a dog to eat like a bird. On the crocodile tears spread, for instance, kids learn that the expression means fake tears, and that crocodiles have the ability to make their eyes well up. To drive home the point, there are several images on each spread, including both a photo and a cartoon image of the animal in question and a kid acting out the behavior. With colorful spreads and an appealing layout, as well as further reading, the cat's out of the bag on idioms.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2012, American Library Association.)