CAPSULE COMMENTS

August 2, 2007

New Children's Non-fiction

Summer is the time for young people to read books on topics that interest them. Here are some new nonfiction titles in the Main Library that will capture some of those summertime interests.

Stikky Night Skies: Learn 6 Constellations, 4 Stars, a Planet, a Galaxy, and How to Navigate at Night—in One Hour, Guaranteed

Have you always wondered how certain people can readily identify celestial bodies out of the millions one can see at a glance? Would you, too, like to show off a little astronomical knowledge? This title uses a unique learning method to bring a fascinating topic to anyone with an hour to spare. For stargazers in the northern hemisphere, this book will help you take your first steps to discovering our place in the universe. Using step-by-step sequencing, you will be able to find the constellations Orion, the Big Dipper, Cassiopeia, Cygnus, Taurus, and the Pleiades as well as naming the stars Betelgeuse, Polaris, Sirius, and Vega and the Milky Way galaxy. Give it a try—it’s fun and addictive! For ages 9 and up.

Saving Manatees, by Stephen R. Swinburne

Manatees have the whiskers of a walrus, the eyes of a mole, the wrinkles of an elephant, the tail of a beaver, and the gentle nature of a sloth. They are slow moving, water-loving, plant-eating, gentle giants that are on the Endangered Species list. Swinburne skillfully explains why they have become endangered and what the state of Florida is doing to change their status from endangered to threatened. The excellent photographs by the author give the reader an intimate insight into the life of a manatee and an appreciation for what makes them a mammal that must be saved. For ages 8-12.

Ryan and Jimmy: And the Well in Africa that Brought Them Together, by Herb Shoveller

Children can be taught compassion and this story about Ryan Hreljac (of Kemptville, Ontario) and young orphan Akana Jimmy (of Agweo, Uganda) is a fine example of how youth can rise to the needs of others. At six years of age, Ryan began to save his money to build a well in Africa. When a family friend writes an article in the local newspaper, more money is donated to Ryan’s cause. Eventually, he appears on television and the ripples of goodwill spread further. His dream of building a well is about to come true. In Uganda, where villagers are used to walking a long way every day in search of unclean water, Ryan and Jimmy meet for the first time. A bond of inseparable friendship is made. Read the book and find out what happens to these two boys and the friendship that began with a simple wish to help others. For ages 8-12.

Why Are the Ice Caps Melting? The Dangers of Global Warming, by Anne Rockwell

Children hear topics of current discussion in the news and global warming is one of them. The prolific author of books for young children, Anne Rockwell, tackles this tough topic effectively. The book begins by introducing Earth as a remarkable place,

which may be the only spot where conditions are right for life. Using simple language, she explains the greenhouse effect, the sources of global warming, and what effects we are seeing now and what that could mean for the future. She suggests ways that each of us could help reduce greenhouse gasses such as riding bikes instead of driving, planting trees, and buying food that isn’t prepackaged. The book touches upon the criticism that has been leveled, but Rockwell points out that even if the critics are right, it is still a good idea to try and reduce our greenhouse gasses. The watercolor illustrations lend child appeal to a difficult topic. For ages 7-9.

Everybody’s Revolution: A New Look at the People Who Won America’s Freedom, by Thomas Fleming

"What does the American Revolution have to do with me?" is the question this superb author of American history asked himself at the age of twelve. Neither he nor his friends felt any connection to the Revolution. As he grew and started doing serious research in American history, he realized that his impression was wrong. The portrait of our country at the time of the Revolution closely resembles the diversity that exists today. The dimensions of the patriot cause were far more multicultural and multiethnic than we have for so long believed. With chapters titled, "Leaders from Many Lands," "Revolution in Black," Warriors for the Republic," "Women at War," and "Young People at War," Fleming relates compelling stories of the many courageous individuals who sensed the coming greatness of America and contributed significantly to our story. For ages 9-12.