12 Things to Know about Fracking

April 1, 2015

Gr 4-6-In an attempt to get students to think critically and draw well-formed conclusions, this set takes a balanced look at complicated current events, breaking each issue down into 12 manageable facts or aspects. Each book employs a clear narrative style, as well as a clean, dynamic design, with text boxes containing supplemental information and color captioned photos with eye-catching text bubbles. The subjects, which include everything from terrorism to fracking to the stock market, are discussed from modern-day and historical perspectives, providing different contexts to consider. "Think About It" boxes interspersed throughout ask questions, encouraging readers to provide textual evidence for their answers, which aligns with Common Core standards. VERDICT The engaging format will enlighten readers and keep them turning pages. Solid general purchase options.

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

April 1, 2015
Grades 3-6 For all that fracking is in the news, actually explaining it to children as something other than just a funny-sounding word can prove problematic, but this volume in the Today's News series makes a noble effort. Although it's only 32 pages, there are plenty of facts about fracking in itmore than just the 12 boasted on the cover. Each two-page spread starts with an overarching fact about an element of fracking and follows with a detailed explanation. Full-color, sometimes full-page photographs appear on each page, with captions, and colorful sidebars and text boxes sum up the information concisely. A few Think about It writing prompts will be helpful for classroom use. An interesting, easy-to-read book that strives to stay neutral on a hot-button topic.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2015, American Library Association.)