Asteroid Hunters

November 1, 2015

Gr 3-6-Firsthand accounts from professionals in the field, dramatic situations that require problem-solving, and fascinating facts are at the heart of this engrossing series. These high-interest occupations will appeal to a wide audience, especially those students interested in pursuing a STEM-related career. Real-life scientists who use technology, analysis, and critical thinking to solve problems demonstrate on a larger scale the same techniques that students are learning in the classroom. Interesting details abound, and kids will be eager to learn more strange but true tidbits. (How do vets trim an elephant's toenails? With saws and power sanders, of course.) Striking photos are complemented by geometric sidebars, and the white-print-on-black-background is fresh and sharp. VERDICT Readers will flock to this fun and informational series.

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

October 1, 2015
Grades 4-7 In 2004, astronomers discovered a huge asteroid predicted to collide with Earth in fewer than 30 years. That discovery forms the backbone of this installment in the Get to Work with Science and Technology series, which follows agencies and scientists who study asteroids and attempt to predict their orbits in an effort to avoid large-scale destruction. Owen follows the team of astronomers as they gather data from other observatories to confirm the asteroid's predicted orbit and discover, thankfully, that its trajectory will be a near miss. Each two-page spread includes plenty of eye-catching full-color photos of space, telescopes, and renderings of asteroids, while inset boxes provide specific stats and other helpful info. A closing section provides an activity to observe craters and specific tips on how to pursue a career in asteroid hunting.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2015, American Library Association.)