Solar Energy

November 1, 2008
Gr 3-5-Large photos accompany past and present examples of how different energy sources can help fuel human activities. The clean layout will facilitate sharing with small groups. All the books include the same chart contrasting nonrenewable and renewable energy sources, but most of the information in "Biofuels", "Solar", and "Wind" does not overlap. "Going Green" devotes 12 pages to these same sources and adds information on hydropower, hydrogen, and geothermal energy alternatives. A spread in that book suggests ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle, while text boxes elsewhere offer additional ideas, including brewing sun tea, a questionable activity because of concerns about bacteria growth. The other three volumes could serve beginning report writers, and the attractive design may draw browsers and general readers as well.

Copyright 2008 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.