Junk Food, Yes or No

November 1, 2015

Gr 1-4-Forming opinions and creating cogent arguments are important skills for students to learn, and this series strives to develop these abilities in young readers. Each book centers on a different issue, offers two opposing sides, and asks readers to choose one. The presentation is simple. Each page features two to three sentences, which sometimes take the form of questions ("Is it fair to say a color is just for girls or boys?"). Color photos are used heavily, taking up more space than the text. At the end of each volume is a set of "Writing Tips" (which are more advanced in level than the rest of the text) to help students write an opinion paper; these prompts stress the importance of using facts rather than feelings. VERDICT An uncomplicated look at complicated topics, but not necessarily a must-purchase.

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 15, 2015
Grades 1-3 The books in the Seeing Both Sides series are intended as instructional tools for opinion writing. A teaching page before the table of contents in each book introduces vocabulary and background knowledge, as well as comprehension and extension activities. The back matter includes a page of writing tips for opinion writing, although the tips are not customized for particular issues. The main content of the books presents arguments for and against each issue. Well-chosen stock photos clarify and emphasize the points. Occasionally the issue or question at hand is not well defined, and arguments may lean one way. For example, the arguments in Junk Food about the potential relative convenience of junk food simply feel weak compared to the specific health and nutrition benefits of avoiding junk food. Despite some weaknesses, these books will likely help young readers and writers find their voices and express opinions on the mildly divisive issues they cover.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2015, American Library Association.)