Every Body's Talking

March 1, 2014

Gr 5 Up-Fascinating information about body language is clearly presented in six detailed yet easily understood chapters. Learning how to "read" others through keen observation can help with understanding emotions, nonverbal messages, and truthfulness. Interspersed throughout the large-type text, with plenty of white space, are photographed examples of various forms of body language (hair twirling, wide-open eyes, lip biting, and mouth covering) and what they usually signify. Each chapter is broken down into a variety of relevant topics ("Bodies in Motions" includes subsections such as "Voice Messages" and "Fancy Footwork") with colorful headings and sidebars, making the book accessible and engrossing. In addition to helping readers comprehend others without verbalization, the text provides useful advice on how to appear more confident (stand tall in a "power pose" like a superhero) and how to show agreement by mirroring body language. A brief, cautionary section explains how acceptable gestures in this country (nodding, thumbs up, etc.) may mean something entirely different, or even rude, in another culture. The back matter includes web videos on this subject. This intriguing title will enlighten readers about how much we say without saying a word.-Maryann H. Owen, Children's Literature Specialist, Mt. Pleasant, WI

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 15, 2014
The way humans use nonverbal cues--sometimes willingly, sometimes accidentally--is explored in a lively presentation for young readers. "Scientists say more than half our communication is conveyed nonverbally through body language. From head to toe, our bodies say volumes about our thoughts, attitudes, and feelings--whether we want them to or not," the book opens. Often, spoken messages are undermined by physical posture and gestures that convey opposite information. Practically every part of the human body contributes meaning, sometimes without the individual's awareness. Eye contact, body position, facial expressions, touch, foot movement and even the way voices are used transmit as much as spoken words. Observing nonverbal cues increases understanding in communication and provides strategies for handling tense situations. Jackson joins with body-language expert Goman to explain the subject, demonstrating its importance as young people grow and develop. Using examples teens will recognize--young people struggling with stage fright, a teen twisting her hair nervously, young athletes avoiding the gaze of the coach--makes the narrative particularly accessible. The chapter on the cultural roots of body language, including differences in personal space, is especially compelling. The bright, open design with its use of sidebars and smart selection of supporting photographs goes well with the conversational style. A smart, accessible introduction to an important and interesting topic. (source notes, glossary, further reading and viewing, index) (Nonfiction. 12-16)

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February 15, 2014
Grades 5-8 Jackson and Goman invite readers to become more observant of the myriad ways that people talk with nonverbal cues. Building on the natural preoccupation with communication that is a hallmark of adolescence, several handy tips are described for decoding the signals that people send via facial expression and body positioning. But the text goes far beyond simply describing body language. An entire chapter on global mores explains how and why gestures are interpreted in different ways by different cultures, and readers are encouraged to carefully consider context when evaluating nonverbal communication. Also, the science of human communication is explored, beginning with the biophysical reactions that occur in the brain and manifest as emotions and innate facial expression. The layout is lighthearted and the photographs are spry, while the source information is drawn from both current events and scientific experts. Most important, the authors discuss how readers can use their understanding of nonverbal communication to present themselves to the world as confident and capable, a skill that many young readers will find valuable.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)