GMOs

November 1, 2016

Gr 5-8-For research or for pleasure, these books are an excellent resource for students who are curious about the most innovative and current technology. High-interest points of interest, from 3-D printers to drones, will capture and hold audience attention, not only because of each topic's novelty but through engaging writing that encourages readers to think critically. Generally alternating between a text-laden page and a full-color photo, the titles explore each subject from concept to reality and impart little-known facts, such as how scientists in 1960 combined neon and helium to create the first gas laser (Lasers), that will undoubtedly help report writers. Geometrically shaped sidebars add even more specifics as well as visual interest, while graphic features encourage students to make connections.

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2017
Grades 6-8 The Cutting-Edge Technology series zeros in on advances in engineering that have changed our world and continue to do so. Each book looks at a particular invention, from its conceptualization and development to its practical uses today and potential applications in the future. In addition to the main text, which is well organized and informative, each double-page spread includes colorful design elements such as photos, sidebars, and the occasional diagram. Cutting-edge can mean controversial, but that's not always the case here, depending on the topic and the writer's viewpoint. GMOs offers a careful balance of the technology's promise for beneficial changes that can save lives with legitimate concerns about possible consequences, such as harm to the environment. Useful books for updating the engineering shelves.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)