Book reviews - Raintree Books

Arabic (Languages of the World) by Daniel Nunn

Helping in the Community (I Can Make a Difference) by Victoria Parker

Food (Why Living Things Need...) by Daniel Nunn

Queen Elizabeth II by Vic Parker

Henry Helps With the Baby by Beth Bracken

 World's Biggest Dinosaurs ((Extreme Dinosaurs)

Scott of the Antarctic (Young Explorer) by Evelyn Dowdeswell, Julian Dowdeswell and Angela Seddon

 World's Scariest Dinosaurs - Extreme Dinosaurs by Rupert Matthews

Dinosaurs have enduring appeal for children so this series will be a popular classroom and library resource. Including some lesser-known creatures, the books are packed with detail. In this title, we learn about the world the dinosaurs lived in and then meet some very scary creatures! Illustrated throughout in full colour, the dinosaurs are reconstructed and set against detailed backgrounds. Clear layout, contents, index and glossary combine to make this an excellent teaching resource.

 Fighting Fires - Heroic Jobs by Nick Hunter

Children in Foundation Stage and KS1 learn about the jobs done by the people around us, so this series will be well-received. It focuses on heroic jobs (the emergency services)  - those people who use special skills to help us everyday. Learn about the people, the work they do and the equipment they need to carry out their vital work. Fighting fires shows us how the firemen work, the dangers they face and interestingly, takes us to other countries and very different kinds of fires. Dramatic photos bring the world of firefighters close to children.

Helping the Environment - I Can Make a Difference by Victoria Parker 

Children today need an awareness of the issues that face the world around us and this series focuses on the way children themselves can have an impact on our environment by volunteering - to help the environment, in the community, helping animals and helping family and friends. I like the way the series involves children. Helping the Environment is full of ideas that can be easily applied - composting, planting trees, recycling toys and much more. Readable and informative.

Naming Words - Getting to Grips with Grammar by Anita Ganeri 

Grammar can be a tricky subject, so this series will be very welcome. Key grammatical concepts are explained in easy to understand language, with plenty of examples to show correct usage. Naming Words discusses nouns and pronouns, defines them and shows how they should be used (including that perennial issue of where to use capital letters. A bright colourful book which makes what could be a rather dry topic very interesting. The quiz at the end of the book is an excellent way to consolidate knowledge.

 Dr. Seuss - Author Biographies by Charlotte Guillain

This series of author biographies introduce childrren to some of the most popular children's authors. I wish I had had access to these super books when I was doing library lessons with children, as I always found they were really interested in learning about the people behind their favourite stories. The series also includes A A MIlne, Beatrix Potter, Maurice Sendak and Roald Dahl. Learn about Dr Seuss' background, the books he wrote and how he is remembered. A great way to engage children with the stories they are reading.

 Water - Why Living Things Need... by Daniel Nunn

Support children's very early science explorations with this series of simple books with plenty of colourful illustrations and simple repetitive text. How do living things use water? How do they take in water? Why do we all need water? These questions, and more, are answered simply but factually, giving an excellent foundation for futire learning. Take a look at www.acorngrow.co.uk for supporting interactive resources.

Going to a Zoo - A World of Field Trips by Rebecca Rissman 

School trips play an important part in learning, right from the youngest children, so here is a great way to introduce them to visiting the beach, a concert, a museum, a park, a zoo, a library, a farm and a staduim. In Going to a Zoo, simple language with plenty of repetition is used, thus helping early literacy skills. What is a zoo? What will happen there? How to behave? are just some of the questions answered. Plenty of colourful photos to get children accustomed to what they will see. A really practical series.

Swahili - Languages of the World by Catherine Chambers 

This is an interesting series that covers a wealth of languages. Got a child in your class or a friend at school for whom English is not the first language? Get one of the books in this series and you will be able to greet them and say key phrases in their language. The books cover where the language is spoken, who speaks it, how it is written amd its relationship to English. Swahili is an interesting introduction, not just to the language but also to its people and culture

What is Maths? -  Maths Around Us by Tracey Steffora

Young children start to learn maths through the everyday world around them, and this book introduces young learners to that concept, through shpaes, patterns, sorting, counting and measuring. Early experiences are so important and this book makes maths fun. Bright photographs of everyday objects are accompanied by brief explanatory text, sometimes with a question. At the end, children are asked how they have used maths today; there is also a list of useful words and teaching suggestions. The index is disappointing.

 Life Cycles by Sian Smith

Life cycles are one of the earliest topics covered in science, so this book will be a useful classroom resource. It starts by showing that all living things have a life cycle and this is illustrated (as the book is throughout) with bright colour photographs. Simple text is easy to follow and key words are in bold then explained in the glossary. There are suggestions for teachers. My only quibble is over the usefulness of the index - I found it inaccurate.

Oil Spills by Christine A Caputo

A very topical issue, covered in a way that makes it easy for KS1 children to understand. It explains why we need oil and what happens when oil isspilt in our oceans, the damage to the environment and to nature. Two major oil spills - the Exxon Valdez and the Gulf of Mexico are included . An index and a glossary make this a good first learning title. Children are helped to understand the disaster that can be caused.

Horns - Animal Spikes and Spines by Rebecca Rissman 

Children learn what horns are, the different types and how they are used. I like the way that the book shows part of the animal heads with the horns and asks the reader to identify them - an excellent way for children to learn and remember. They can reinforce learning with 'Can you remember?'. Simple text and colourful photographs make this an accessible book for the youngest readers.

Voices - Instruments and Music by Daniel Nunn

One in a series of books about musical instruments, this one focuses largely on the human voice with one page about birds. Simple repetitive text teaches basic vocabulary and the colour photographs keep interest levels high. Raintree's KS1 books are an excellent way to introduce children to the information found in books and how best to learn from books as well as enjoying them.

Polar Bear - A Day in the Life (Read and Learn) by Katie Marsico 

A useful book to support geography studies, this is one in a series about polar animals. Each animal's moving, eating, sleeping and hunting is covered and it is good to see a whole series of animals covered, giving an excellent overall view of life in polar regions. The series would be a good basis for groups of  children to study different animals in the classroom and then share this with their peers. Lavishly illustrated woth full colour photos, this is an attractive series.

 Grow Your Own Snack - Grow It Yourself! by John Malam

A topical title, given the current interest in healthy eating. This series is full of growing ideas that can be carried out in the classroom or which children can be asked to try at home. Grow Your Own .Snack focuses on broad beans - maybe a plant teachers and parents haven't tried. Grow the plant with the detailed step-by-step instructions, then make the snack. Colourful and easy to follow, this is a practical series.

Masks and Face Painting - Start With Art (Read and Learn) by Isabel Thomas

This practical series introduces children to different forms of art. Masks and face painting are really colourful topics so this is a striking book. It covers a range of cultures and historical periods making it possible to use the study of masks and face painting a useful cross-curricular activity. There is a simple mask to create, well within the scope of most children. I like the way the glossary shows pictures alongside the explanation, as it is always easier for children to learn and remember visually - this is a common feature in raintree KS1 books. 

Old Clothes - From Rubbish to Riches (Read and Learn) by Daniel Nunn 

Children are never too young to learn abour=t recycling and this book introduces the topic in a fun way. It shows what happens when we throw things away and then gives alternative ways for the items to be reused in ways that are both fun and practical for children. There is a recylcing quiz, glossary and where to find out more section. The use of questions as page headings immediately draws children into the book and gets them involved.

Ocean Divers - Landform Adventures by Anita Ganeri

Children are introduced to the marvels of the undersea world and the ways in which man can explore it. Lots of good quality photographs, succinct facts clearly laid out, and useful fact boxes make this book interesting and accessible. Glossary, find out more and an index all help children learn to find out for themselves. 

Polish - Languages of the World by Lucia Raatna

This series, from Raintree, covers a range of major world languages. The books in the series, however, are far more than just language books - they provide an introduction to the culture of the country for KS1 children. A brief introduction to the language is given; there is a guide to pronunciation; introducing yourself and then words associated with everyday life - home, school, shopping, work etc. These are complemented by useful nuggets of information. Clearly laid out, accessible fonts and fact boxes and plenty of photographs, these books are an ideal introduction.

French - Languages of the World by Anita Ganeri

Spanish (Languages of the World)
Hindi (Languages of the World)
Urdu (Languages of the World)
Mandarin (Languages of the World
Italian (Languages of the World)

South Africa - Countries Around the World by Claire Throp

Countries Around the World is an excellent series which covers a huge number of countries - and new titles seem to be being added all the time! The great thing about this is that, once the user appreciates the comprehensive coverage of one book, they know that all the other titles are going to be just as good. The emphasis is on up-to-date information, current affairs and newsworthy items, so you can be sure you are getting all the latest information. History, geography, culture and all the expected topics are included, but the books are made so much more interesting by the inclusion of topics such as recipes, language, animals and an outline map and a flag for use in projects. Timeline, fact files, further sources - it's amazing how much is packed in! The photos are high quality, the layout contemporary and the text very readable - an excellent series.

Life Processes - The Web of Life by Anna Claybourne

In KS2, children study life cycles and life processes and this is an excellent series to support that learning. The series shows how all living things are interdependent. This, in turn, highlights how vital it is for all of us to care for our world to enable this interdependency to remain in balance. The seven life processes are discussed in this title. There is an interesting case study - blue whale versus puffball fungus; an intriguing juxtaposition! There is plenty of opportunity for discussion around the issues arising in the book, making it a good classroom resource. The fact boxes 'What it means for us' are a good way to involve youngsters and get them thinking.

 Weather - The Science Behind by Darlene R Stille

This is a wide-ranging series, covering many key science topics taught in school - see below for just a few more in the series. It is particularly good for reluctant or struggling readers, being written in an engaging fashion and making excellent use of the visual resources - photos, diagrams and labelling - to complement the text. Good use is made of objects and experiences with which young readers are familiar and this enables them to relate well to the content of the books. Each book features a 'try it yourself' activity, which is excellent for reinforcing learning. There is a contents page, glossary and index, which are all straightforward and ideal for the learning of reference skills. A well thought-out and practical series.

Daniel  Radcliffe - Star Biographies by Sheila Llanas

Find out how Daniel Radcliffe overcame a learning disability to become one of today's best known actors. The book tells of his early life; those phenomally successful Harry Potter films and what the future holds for Daniel. This series - Star Biographies - is a great way to engage both boys and girls with reading as they have the opportunity to learn about some of their favourite celebrities - always popular! Packed with photos and plenty of quotes, this series gives a good insight into celebrity lives, with just enough information for the recommended age of 8-10 year olds.

Robert Pattinson - Star Biographies by Jennifer Besel

Robert Pattinson first appeared in the vampire movie Twilight - but he really wanted to be a musician. Children will enjoy finding out more about his life in this simply presented but colourful and factual book. More in the series - Zac Efron (Star Biographies), Taylor Lautner (Star Biographies) 

Animal Heroes - War Stories by Jane Bingham

This is an eye-opening account of the many different ways in which animals have been involved in war and - on many occasions - have had a really significant impact on the outcome. Did you know that there is an Animals in War Memorial in London? Or tthat pigeons were used to take photos behind enemy lines? Attractive and colourful layout with plenty of pictures bring the stories alive. War Stories is an interesting series of books which take the reader behind some of the less well known aspects of war. They provide useful background information to history and citizenship studies.  

Handheld Gadgets - Science and Technology by  Neil Morris

Find out how technology has changed and will continue to change our lives in  this excellent new title in the Sci-Hi series will definitely appeal to today's technology savvy youngsters. Focusing on those applainces they use on a daily basis, this explains the technology behind computers, phones, sat navs, games and much more. Clear and colourful layout, small chunks of text, lots of pictures - all make this an easy read. It would be a good book for adults who want to understand their children's interests too.

England - Countries Around the World by Claire Throp

There are currently around 24 titles in this series from Raintree. They are a useful introduction to each country, with coverage of history, the landscape, wildlife, constitution, social life and culture. There is a useful fact file, a timeline, a glossary, resources for projects and a detailed index. All these add up to a book which is an excellent library resource, both for studying the subject and for learning how to use books to their full potential. Photos, diagrams and fact boxes add up to a very colourful, attrractive and accessible series.

Solar Power - Tales of Invention by Chris Oxlade

You may think the harnessing of solar power is relatively new, but far from it! The Ancient Greeks and Romans used it, as did North Americans. The book tells of some fascinating inventions such as solar collectors used for cooking and heating water, as well as describing modern technology. The timeline puts it all into context and the boxes for biographies, setbacks and 'Eureka!' are attractive as well as making the book easy to read. One in a series which will enthrall all who are interested in the marvel of inventions.

The Life Cycle of Mammals - Life Cycles by Susan H Gray

Life cycles - a topic of perennial interest and one which is studied in varying detail throughout the curriculum. This series is aimed at children aged 8 - 10 and complements other series in the Raintree range. In this book, the reader finds out what a mammal is; how they are born; how they move; how they protect themselves and much more. For those stimulated by the book, there is (as with most Raintree Books) a list of further sources. Colourful and attractive, children will enjoy this series.

 Fearsome Fish - Creatures of the Deep by Rachel Lynette

How deep in the ocean do anglerfish live and how big are they? What is its lure and how does it attract prey? Learn all about these "black sea devils" and other frightening fish in this title. Each book in the Creatures of the Deep series focuses on one sea creature and its near relatives, meaning that the coverage is detailed and provides a real insight into marine life. An important aspect of the series is the way the books show the conservation issues that are so important, thus raising children's awareness.

 

The Story Behind Soap - True Stories by  Christin Ditchfield

I found this a fascinating series! I learnt a lot about some of the things we take for granted in everyday life and will value them more as a result of knowing what goes into their manufacture. In today's trhow-away society, it is valuable for children to learn jusyt how things get to us. What soap is; soap through history; how it is made and what the future holds. Packed with colourful illustrations and even instructions on how to make your own soap. Fascinating!

The Story Behind Silk - True Stories by Ann Weil

The Story Behind Water (True Stories)
The Story Behind Rubber (True Stories)
The Story Behind Paper (True Stories)
The Story Behind Glass (True Stories)
The Story Behind Wool (True Stories)

 Steve Jobs (Titans of Business) by Nick Hunter

 Gorillas (Living in the Wild - Primates) by Lori McManus

Getting Ahead - Drugs, Technology and Competitive Advantage by Lori Hile

The Gulf Wars with Iraq (Living Through) by Jane Bingham

 Sport and Society - Ethics of Sport by Scott Witmer

Sport is at the forefront of many people's minds in the lead in to the 2012 Olympic Games. Issues discussed include cheating, the governance of sport and fan behaviour. There is much controversy surrounding sport and this series looks at key sporting topics and opens up lots of opportunities for classroom discussion. Case studies are thought-provoking and again useful for discussion. Many controversial issues are discussed, in a balanced fashion which allows the reader to make his own decisions. Sport and Society discusses the part sport has played in shaping human society.

 What is the Controversy With Stem Cell Research? - Sci-Hi by Isabel Thomas

One in a thought-provoking series that is not afraid to look at controversial issues which cause concern to both the public and to scientists. With all the attractive layout we have come to expect from Raintree Books, the series draws the reader in through the variety used in the presentation of material. The text is presented in a way that will appeal to less confident readers, without in any way talking down to the reader. Facts are clearly presented, with both sides of the argument clearly expressed. Plenty of photos, diagrams and fact boxes make potentially complex subjects accessible and readily understandable - excellent to see these issues brought to the attention.

Why Is There Life On Earth? - Earth, Space and Beyond by Andrew Solway

This is a big question! The book examines the special qualities which make the earth such a special place and the fact it provides the basics of life - water and energy. It goes on to discuss other places in the solar system which have the potential to support life. Full of interesting facts with plenty of supporting evidence. One of a series which supports the curriculum for science -  earth, space and the universe - the books provoke thinking and discussion and show the relevance of space science to our everyday lives.

Avoiding Hunger and Finding Water - The Environment Challenge (Freestyle) by Andrew Langley 

The world's population of over six billion people is putting increasing pressure on resources. Are there solutions to the many challenges facing the environment today? This is one in a series which encourages young people to think about what they would do about a range of local and global topics. This title covers farming, brought, water use and consumption. It is designed to make the reader think about the implications of the way we live and use resources and is ideal to support KS3 citizenship and geography teaching. Attractively presented, with lots of fact boxes and other devices to capture attention.
 

101 Things You Didn't Know About Your Body by John Townsend

101 Ways is an entertaining series of books in magazine-style format which bridges the gap between reading for fun and more  strictly curriculum related books. There are plenty of activities, quizzes, anecdotes, facts and useful tips, all presented in an appealing way, making all the six books in the series fun to dip into. It includes some fairly gruesome pictures!

Making Food Choices - Ethics of Food by Michael Burgan

THis is an important topic and one which is close to the hearts of many ppeople. KS3 students who read this, and the others in the series, will be able to make informed decisions when shopping and know what each one of us can do to help change. It raises some very interesting issues and helps us to be more aware of the origins of our food and the impact of our choices. Ethics of Food is an engaging, cross-curricular series introduces and explains the ethical issues and big business behind what we eat, and how making choices at the supermarket can either keep things as they are or affect real change.

 

Pooches of Power (DC Super Pets) by Sarah Hines Stephens

The Girls' Guide to Vampires: Everything enchanting about these immortal creatures by Jen Jones

Hide and Shriek! (Mighty Mighty Monsters) by Sean O'Reilly

Blood in the Library (Return to the Library of Doom) by Michael Dahl

Clock King's Time Bomb (DC Super Heroes: The Flash) by Sean Tulien

Fear the Shark (Green Lantern: DC Super Heroes) by Laurie Sutton

Terror Beach by Michael Dahl

Simple text and fantastic illustrations work together to weave this exciting fantasy story. This series of moral tales teach character values through the stories. Great features include discussion questions and writing prompts to encourage group interaction and creativity. Easily accessible vocabulary will engage reluctant and struggling readers. The presentation will appeal to young boy readers - short sentences, plenty of variety in font and layout and zany pictures.

Dragon in the Desert by Michael Dahl

Two friends hike into the deserts of Mongolia, aiming for the Hills of the Seven Dragons. A third figure follows their footsteps throught the desert.... More in the series - Dawn of the Dragons (Dragonblood),  Claws in the Snow (Dragonblood),Dragon Theft Auto (Dragonblood), It Screams at Night (Dragonblood). The Dragonblood series is for ages 6-8.

Cave of the Bookworms by Michael Dahl

Destroyer of Evil. Champion of Good. Full-Time Librarian. Meet the mysterious Librarian. Keeper of the world's most dangerous books, sworn enemy of monsters made of paper and ink, crusader of young people threatened by ancient curses.The simple text coupled with plenty of illustrations make this a good series for the less-confident reader. Suitable for ages 6-8.

I Dare You by Steve Brezenoff

Mystery, adventure, and fantasy await. In a new city, a boy meets a mysterious new friend. Two brothers discover their family's oldest secret. Cousins track down the ancient grave of an Indian chief. And faced with terrifying evil, a brother and sister fight to save themselves and their friends.

Emperor of the Airwaves by Donald Lemke

The Penguin purchases Gotham city's largest media company. And after Batman stops crimes throughout the city, security tapes, police reports, and camera angles are edited to make Batman look like the criminal. People begin to fear the Dark Knight. If he can't prove his innocence, the hero will end up in prison and The Penguin will fly free.

Guardian of Earth by Michael Dahl

Kid's favourite super hero comics turned into easy-to-read chapter books. New stories with original art by DC illustrators, these books are colourful, attractive and accessible. "Green Lantern": A green ring from another world offers test pilot Hal Jordan incredible powers to fight crime. The excitement and adventure in these never-before-told stories is out-of-this world.

The Menace of Metallo by Eric Stevens

Superman, The Man of Steel, defeats aliens and super-villains, and rescues Lois Lane and Jimmy Olsen. Kid's favourite super hero comics turned into easy-to-read chapter books. New stories with original art by DC illustrators.