Book Review: Delicate Crochet: 23 Light and Pretty Designs for Shawls, Tops and More by Sharon Hernes Silverman

Delicate Crochet: 23 Light and Pretty Designs for Shawls, Tops and More by Sharon Hernes Silverman

Light, airy pieces crocheted in fine yarns show off the beauty of your crochet stitches and are a dream to wear! The shawls, cardigans, tops, and other designs in this collection are light as a feather, super soft, and made to drape beautifully across your body. These lacy pieces are fun to crochet and very versatile. Change up the yarns to create looks for day or night, work or play, city or suburbs. Pattern contributors include Kristin Omdahl, Robyn Chachula, Marty Miller, Amy Solovay, Vashti Braha, and others known for their innovative, gorgeous crochet designs. Each of the 23 patterns includes full written instructions and charts as needed. All special stitches are fully explained and skill levels range from easy to advanced.

Delicate Crochet is a well written collection of patterns, and the special stitches are well explained. I liked some of the patterns very much; the Flirt Cardigan, Lacy Sleeveless Cardigan, and Lotus Wrap were my favorites. I also liked some of the lace stitches and borders that were used elsewhere. The beadwork in the necklace pattern and the Tunisian crochet are skills that might be new to many, and are not something I have yet mastered- however only because I have not invested the time into the process. I also have to say that a lace or open crochet stitch skirt is something I never thought to make or wear, even to wear with leggings, except if one were wearing it more as a wrap or something with a dress or pants. So, at least one of the patterns was a hard no for me.

However, none of the patterns rally struck me as completely new or fresh. For crocheters that do not have access to resources like Ravelry this might be worth the investment, but for most crafters I would recommend visiting the local library to borrow this book to learn a few new stitches and try their hand at some of the patterns. 

Early Book Review: Mini Meadows: Grow a Little Patch of Colorful Flowers Anywhere around Your Yard by Mike Lizotte

Mini Meadows: Grow a Little Patch of Colorful Flowers Anywhere around Your Yard by Mike Lizotte is a nonfiction gardening book that is currently scheduled for release on March 5 2019. The word “meadow” conjures images of wide expanses of land, but a mini meadow, a kind of informal flower garden started with seed sown directly into the soil, can be any size. It can also be fun, easy to grow, and good for the planet. With as little as 50 square feet and for less than $20, gardeners can plant a colorful meadow that demands little in the way of space, mowing, or maintenance, uses less water than a traditional lawn, and provides habitat for pollinators, not to mention a natural exploration space for children. From choosing the right variety of seeds, preparing the soil, sowing evenly, and watering well, this book guides readers through the process of successfully creating a miniature meadow that suits their climate, soil, and growing goals, whether planting to beautify a hellstrip, halt erosion, fill a boggy spot, or establish a nesting area for bees and butterflies.

Mini Meadows is detailed and well organized, with a pleasant conversational feel. Towards the end ogf the book there are some regional planting guides that I found particularly helpful. I know my planting zone, but I think the regional breakdown is slightly more accessible.  I liked getting to know a bit about the author and his family as I learned about planting, planting, and caring for meadows. I love the look of fields of flowers, but I never thought my small yard and small gardens could be anything like a meadow.  This book offered me ideas and inspiration to take some of this space and enjoy some mini meadows. The fact that they can be so low maintenance fits in my my increasingly busy life, and how little I have been enjoying the summer heat each year. I like how the author gave additional resources in the endpages, including seed sources, gardens to visit, and further reading. 

Mini Meadows is a book that I will be looking to revisit in the late winter. It has given me many ideas, and I think it will help other gardeners looking for some information and inspiration.

Book Review: Making the Monster: The Science Behind Mary Shelley's Frankenstein by Kathryn Harkup

Making the Monster: The Science Behind Mary Shelley's Frankenstein by Kathryn Harkup is an exploration of the history, science, and politics that played a role in the creation of this piece of classic literature. The year 1818 saw the publication of one of the most influential science-fiction stories of all time. Frankenstein: Or, Modern Prometheus by Mary Shelley had a huge impact on gothic horror and science fiction genres. The period of 1790–1820 saw huge advances in our understanding of electricity and physiology. Sensational science demonstrations caught the imagination of the general public, and newspapers were full of tales of murderers and resurrectionists.

It is unlikely that Frankenstein would have been successful in his attempts to create life back in 1818. However, advances in medical science mean we have overcome many of the stumbling blocks that would have thwarted his ambition. We can resuscitate people using defibrillators, save lives using blood transfusions, and prolong life through organ transplants--these procedures are nowadays considered almost routine. Many of these modern achievements are a direct result of 19th century scientists conducting their gruesome experiments on the dead.

Making the Monster is a book that initially intrigued me, and that I learned a great deal from. I am a literary nerd, and thought I knew a good deal about Mary Shelley and those around her. I was glad to increase that knowledge base and to put in context with the political and social conflicts of the time. I also liked getting a better understanding of the scientific advancements and the way research was performed and thought about in her day. I will admit that after reading about half the information of the scientific evaluations and advancements my mind started to wander and I had a hard time focusing. I really wanted more understanding of how some of the scientific mindset grew and changed over the years, and who made which set of advancements, but I had a hard time getting through the middle portion of the book that dealt with this. I was much more engaged in the facts about Shelley's personal life. I liked the inclusion of the occasional image to support or enhance the text, and think they were used well.

Making the Monster is an informative read. I felt like my engagement level varied throughout the book, which might not be the case for everyone. I learned a great deal, and I think it might be fascinating for some and dry for others depending on their interests and learning styles. 

Early Book Review: Born to Dance: Celebrating Moments of Joy, from Toddler to Teen by Jordan Matter

Born to Dance: Celebrating Moments of Joy, from Toddler to Teen by Jordan Matter is a celebration of what it means to be young and full of possibility. The book is full of lovely color photographs of young dancers (ages 4-17) by Dancers Among Us photographer Jordan Matter, along with Jordan's personal observations and quotes from some of the dancers about joy, life, dance, and family.

Born to Dance: Celebrating Moments of Joy, from Toddler to Teen is a lovely and stunning collection of images of young dancers caught in motion. I love the fact that these are individuals that are out in the world, not in studios and in traditional dance attire. They are all different, utilizing different styles, of different builds, races, ages, genders, and many are in unconventional moments that might not seem like dance on the surface- while others are much more traditional. I like the wide variety of subjects, motions, and backgrounds. Dancers, those that dream about dancing, and those that have always enjoyed watching the beauty of dance will be thrilled with this collection. 

Book Review: Unofficial Minecraft STEM Lab for Kids by John Miller, Chris Fornell Scott

In Unofficial Minecraft STEM Lab for Kids readers will find  forty eight projects that can help make learning science, technology, engineering, and math more fun or exciting. There are six Quests, each with four unique Labs that pair a hands-on activity with an in-game project. Readers start with the basics of terminology and gameplay, and how to keep track of their activities. Information from five Minecraft experts share the challenges and experiences, and how the game has helped with their overall success. Some of the real world activities include making glow in the dark slime, the classic volcano, pipe cleaner snowflakes, electromagnets, and more. In game challenges include carving a crystal ice castle, making and using a teleporter, building a dam, and building labs and field stations. 

Unofficial Minecraft STEM Lab for Kids is a well organized and accessable book for young scientists. The six quests include; Pistons, Rails and Redstone, Construction Zone, The Sky is Not Your Limit, Rocks, Minerals and Gems, Cycles in Science, and Engineering Challenge. In the beginning of the book there is information for parents and teachers to help them engage young readers with the activities, understand why this book might help them interest and motivate their readers, understand the basics of the game and tools that will be mentioned and used through out the book, and information about the people involved in making the book. I highly suggest that both adults and the young readers at least browse this section, because the Minecraft tools and the Sketchnoting might be new or more complicated than either have fully explored in the past.  At the end of the book there is also a helpful glossary, connections between the projects in the book and classroom standards, resources for further research and exploration, and information about the authors. 

I really enjoy the fact that this book is not just for the kids, it is about tackling projects as a family or team. The directions are well done and understandable, and the photographs and screenshots were used well and labeled in a way that worked to enhance the instructions. I liked the secondary challenges and tidbits of information that were included in blocks within each challenge, as well as the notes of other things you can try or interesting things you can find online that relate to the projects at hand. While the missions and focus might not be a perfect fit for everyone, I think there is a large potental for finding the perfect (enthusiastic) audience for this book. 

Unofficial Minecraft STEM Lab for Kids is a great resource for getting our minecraft fans more interested in real world science, and our more hands on readers to delve into coding and computers. I think this is the best of both, getting any young scientist with even the vaguest notion of Minecraft to try some new experiments and activities. I am going to have to get my own paper copy for my soon to be middle-schooler and I to tackle over summer vacation. 

Book Review: Dictionary of Gypsy Mythology: Charms, Rites, and Magical Traditions of the Roma by Claude Lecouteux, Jon E. Graham

Dictionary of Gypsy Mythology: Charms, Rites, and Magical Traditions of the Roma was written by Claude Lecouteux, and translated into English by Jon E. Graham. It is a dictionary style guide to the oral tradition of the Rom. This includes some of their folktales, rites, songs, nursery rhymes, jokes, and magical traditions. His main source is material collected by Heinrich Adalbert von Wlislocki (1856-1907), an ethnologist who lived with gypsies in Romania, Transylvania, and Hungary in the latter half of the 19th century. He presents the origin myths of the gypsies, legends which form the ancestral memory of the gypsy tribes and often closely touch on their daily life. Rare illustrations and information from obscure sources appearing for the first time in English, this detailed reference work represents an excellent resource for scholars and those seeking to reconnect to their forgotten gypsy heritage.
Dictionary of Gypsy Mythology: Charms, Rites, and Magical Traditions of the Roma is a good, well organized resource with dictionary style entries. I like how thorough and well researched the information is, and I love learning about different cultures. I have read so much fiction that touches on the culture, but I am never sure just how accurate it is. Having something this well organized would help me look up certain topics or names to see if it is being used correctly. This is not a book to casually read and get full stories and a larger picture of the traditions. This is a book to study or use as a reference when doing research or writing to make sure we use our mentions and terminology correctly.  For this, the book is a valuable tool. There are some stories toward the end of the book, but I am greedy and would like more. I am hoping to do more of my own study in the traditions and legends, because I find understanding other people to be important and fascinating- and it frankly makes us better people when we understand things from another point of view. I did not get a whole lot of that, but I did glean some interesting and important information that will help me along as I continue looking for more. 

If you have read a wonderful book on legends or mythology of any culture (for children or adults) please let me know. I love the expand my understanding and horizons! 

Book Review: Maker Lab: Outdoors; 25 Super Cool Projects by Jack Challoner

Maker Lab: Outdoors; 25 Super Cool Projects by Jack Challoner actually includes twenty-eight science projects and experiments to be done outside. The projects focus on Earth and the environment, plants and animals, rocks and minerals, and space, bringing science learning home and into the backyard. Young scientists can make a cave system and find out about underground rivers, construct a working model of tectonic plates and learn about earthquakes, build a telescope and look to the planets and stars, and more. The book includes clear step-by-step instructions, and detailed explanations. 

Maker Lab: Outdoors; 25 Super Cool Projects is a well written and organized collection of experiments and activities. The instructions are easy to understand and paired with helpful photographs and labels that can assist young scientists in achieving success. I liked that the projects are divided into four groups, Nature Watch, World of Weather, Water Power, and Earth and Sky. This can help young readers focus on a subject matter that interests them most, or to supplement what they are learning at home or in school. Some of the projects are classics, or at least ones I have seen more than once before. However, a couple seemed new to me.  I loved that the templates were all included in one location at the end of the book, along with a glossary and index to make things even more clear and accessible. I am looking forward to trying out some of these projects with my own kids this summer, or letting them loose to try more independently in my yard. 

Book Review: Archipelago New York by Thomas Halaczinsky

Archipelago New York by Thomas Halaczinsky is a photographic and literary log book unravels the mysteries of more than seventy islands dotting the sea from New York Harbor at the mouth of the Hudson to Fishers Island Sound. Documentary filmmaker and writer Thomas Halaczinsky's course follows the route of Adriaen Block, the first European who in 1614 sailed and mapped this area. On old marine charts, these islands have curious-sounding names such as Money Island, Pot Island, and Rats Island, while names such as Rockaway, Jamaica Bay, and Montauk speak of the indigenous people who once inhabited the land. Rooted in history, local tales are interwoven with current themes such as climate change and wrapped in the narrative of sailing in quest of a sense of place.

Archipelago New York is a stunning travel log of the waters and islands of New York Harbor, which so few people in New York City seem to forget exist. I loved that he used more than just his photographs and thoughts on his travels. He also used maps and information on the history of the area to enhance the journey. I loved getting a look at islands that I might never have the chance to go see myself, and to learn about the history. Halaczinsky's insights were interesting to read, and added a personal touch to the book. I think my favorite part of the book was the photography. Some of the images were stunning, other calm and soothing to my eye. I enjoy getting to play armchair tourist, and while exploring New York Harbor by boat is something I am not likely to ever do in person, I was very glad to have the chance to experience it second hand. 

Book Review: Seafurrers: The Ships' Cats Who Lapped and Mapped the World by Philipa Sandall, Ad Long

Seafurrers: The Ships' Cats Who Lapped and Mapped the World, written by Philipa Sandall and illustrated by Ad Long, explores the history of the cats that explored the world alongside seafarring souls over the years. People remember the bold seafarers of yore, from Magellan to Shackleton, for their extraordinary exploits: new lands discovered, storms weathered, and battles won. But somehow history has neglected the stalwart, hardworking species who made it all possible, the noble cat! Here readers can learn the stories of sea cats such as Trim (who circumnavigated Australia), Tom (the sole feline survivor of the sinking of the USS Maine), celebrity cat Simon (a veteran of the Yangtze Incident), and other furry heroes. There are thirty eight stories of cats that proved to indispensable at sea—both as pest controllers and as beloved mascots, all told from the voice of Bart- a cat eager to explain the missing histories of seafaring felines. The book is filled with nautical trivia, rare photographs, and whimsical illustrations, this deft genealogy of human–feline friendship will stir your regard for the incomparable cat.

Seafurrers: The Ships' Cats Who Lapped and Mapped the World is less about the individual cats and the sailors that befriended and made use of them, it is more about the benefits and uses of cats on ships and in the world in general. The information about the benefits of cats for pest control and the calculations of just how useful they were. I think I was expecting more stories than science and math, but that is on me rather than the author. The information given is well presented and the illustrations and photographs added to the narrative. I will admit to being bored with some of the facts, and doing a little skimming. My biggest issue was the fact that the author cited Wikipedia. I am trying to teach research to school children, and how to verify sources. Wikipedia does not count, but can be a good starting point as long as you follow it to reputable primary sources. It is not in itself such a source, and that an author would use it as one made me less than happy. 

Book Review: The True Death of Billy the Kid by Rick Geary

The True Death of Billy the Kid is part of a series of historical graphic novels by Rick Geary.  The cover proclaims the book to be the first true and accurate graphic novel telling the story of the death of the wild west's outlaw, Billy the Kid.  One of the great folk legends of the Wild West, William H. Bonney went from cowboy and rancher's gunslinger to a pure outlaw, forever dodging justice in New Mexico before it was even a state. On the one hand, he was charming, fun-loving, often present at social events, quite appealing to the ladies. Also conversant in Spanish, “Billito” was popular with the Spanish speaking crowd. On the other hand, he had no compunction to coldly kill a man, a sheriff, a deputy—anyone who got in the way of his rustling cattle or horses for an illicit living. He also proved hard to keep in jail once he was caught. It is probably his daring escapes from jails that made him most famous, and this is the main subject of this biography, which traces his story up through his death by a gunshot in the pitch darkness, fired by lawmen obsessed with getting rid of him. 

The True Death of Billy the Kid is a black and white graphic novel detailing the life and death of Billy the Kid. While some of the details are not well documented, so Geary clearly had to speculate and fill in the gaps as best he could. The art work is neat and very detailed. It is visual pleasing and does a good job of telling the tale and enhancing the text. The labeling and explaining text were done well, and I felt like I have a little better of an understanding of what Billy was like, and how he lived. I have watched more than my fair share of movies and documentaries that cover Billy the Kid, and found this graphic novel to do a really good job of entertaining and informing readers about his life. Again, I know that Geary had to make some leaps, because we just do not know all the answers. However, I found that the choices he made in this respect seemed to be on point.

The True Death of Billy the Kid is a good graphic novel for those looking to learn more about Billy the Kid. 

Book Review: Power in Numbers: The Rebel Women of Mathematics by Tabitha Williams

Power in Numbers: The Rebel Women of Mathematics by Tabitha Williams is a full-color, non fiction book that takes a look at the forgotten influence of women in the development of mathematics over the last two thousand years. The book is divided in three parts: I - The Pioneers, II - From Code Breaking to Rocket Science and III - Modern Math Mavens, detailing the careers and achievements of thirty women scientists, with brief mentions of few others. The book brings mathematic powerhouses like astronomer-philosopher Hypatia, theoretical physicist Emmy Noether, and rocket scientist Annie Easley to life for readers and helps us understand that trailblazing women have always existed, we just do not always know their stories unless we take the time to discover them.

Power in Numbers: The Rebel Women of Mathematics is a wonderful and long overdue book. I thought I knew a great deal about the women that have helped shape the world of technology, science, and mathematics. However, this book showed me that I only knew a small number of the women that made such huge impacts on the world. I learned about some women I had never heard of, and learned more about some that I though I knew much more about. Anyone that thinks they cannot make an impact, or that a particular field is not for them because of prejudice or culture, I urge you to read the book. The pictures included with the text about these dynamic women make them more real, and helps the reader connect with them and relate their own lives to those of these women- giving them the inspiration to forge their own path. 

Power in Numbers: The Rebel Women of Mathematics is an inspirational and informative book. I hope that it encourages others to follow their dreams, and to do the work they love regardless of what society and culture might tell them. 

Early Book Review: Buzz: The Nature and Necessity of Bees by Thor Hanson

Buzz: The Nature and Necessity of Bees by Thor Hanson is a natural history. Bees are like oxygen: ubiquitous, essential, and, for the most part, unseen. While we might overlook them, they lie at the heart of relationships that bind the human and natural worlds. Buzz takes us on a journey that begins 125 million years ago, when a wasp first dared to feed pollen to its young. From honeybees and bumbles to lesser-known diggers, miners, leafcutters, and masons, bees have long been central to our harvests, our mythologies, and our very existence. They've given us sweetness and light, the beauty of flowers, and as much as a third of the foodstuffs we eat. And, alarmingly, they are at risk of disappearing.

Buzz: The Nature and Necessity of Bees is a pretty perfect combination of personal narration, scientific explanation, and history. I never knew there were so many kinds of bees in the world, and how varied they are. I already knew how important they were as pollinators, and about the current bee population crisis, but Hanson's passion for the subject made even the things I already understood seem new and more important. This is a very accessible but detailed natural history that anyone interested in bees or the need we have for them in order to keep eating might want to read. The information and images are very well presented and organized with a conversational narrative tone that makes it an enjoyable and engaging read.

Buzz: The Nature and Necessity of Bees is just the book I needed. I have always been fascinated with bees, although not as interested as our author. This book gave me all the information I could want and more. 

Book Review: Destination: Planet Earth by Jo Nelson, Tom Clohosy Cole

Destination: Planet Earth is a children's non fiction book written by Jo Nelson, and illustrated by Tom Clohosy Cole. This book offers a visual field trip of our planet, from volcanoes and coursing rivers to towering mountains and the deepest valleys. This journey of discovery introduces young readers to physical geography in all forms: learn about weather and climate, see how the water cycle works and explore the science behind Earth's earthquakes, eruptions and tsunamis. Packed with epic facts and breathtaking illustrations, this book will take young explorers on the trip of a lifetime.

Destination: Planet Earth is well balanced between fun and informative pictures and detailed text. It is a solid introduction for children to the different sciences that describe and explain our planet, like geography, to the basics of ecology, the whys of tides and magnetic field, how we need to protect the environment in which we live, and so much more. No one topic gets extensive coverage, but the basics of each topic covered is well explained and illustrated with out crossing the line of overwhelming the younger readers. . If you are looking for a quick and concise explanation on just about everything Earth related, this is the book for you, and your library or classroom. This book just might encourage further research in the field touched upon, or inspire a future scientist's interest. 

Book Review: Make Your Own Ice Cream: Classic Recipes for Ice Cream, Sorbet, Italian Ice, Sherbet, and Other Frozen Desserts by Sarah Tyson Rorer

Make Your Own Ice Cream: Classic Recipes for Ice Cream, Sorbet, Italian Ice, Sherbet, and Other Frozen Desserts by Sarah Tyson Rorer is a reprint of a vintage book. The author passed away in 1937, so this book makes no mention of electric ice cream makers or microwaves, but was slightly updated for more modern kitchens. This book offers recipes for dozens of different types of ice cream and sherbet, the recipes cover frozen puddings, soufflés, parfaits, and mousses as well as tasty toppings. Numerous dairy-free options include sorbets, Italian ices, and fruit ices. It uses easy-to-find ingredients, which include a variety of fruits and nuts to the traditional flavors of chocolate and vanilla. Brief explanations identify the differences between ices, sorbet, and sherbet and offers the general instructions. 

Make Your Own Ice Cream: Classic Recipes for Ice Cream, Sorbet, Italian Ice, Sherbet, and Other Frozen Desserts is a good and varied collection of recipes for frozen treats. I have to admit that I was confused by some of the wording in the instructions, but that was solved when I realized that those instructions were for use with an old fashioned crank ice cream maker, which I am currently lacking. I did like there there is such a wide variety of flavors, and that they are all based on using the best, fresh ingredients. I might test out a few of these recipes this summer with the kids, but I will admit to being a little lazy and find that I enjoy the instant gratification of buying a half gallon of ice cream and having some to often being preferable to cooking and freezing some of these recipes no mater how tempting they sound. 

Book Review: Geek Ink: The World's Smartest Tattoos for Rebels, Nerds, Scientists, and Intellectuals From the Creators of inkstinct

Geek Ink: The World's Smartest Tattoos for Rebels, Nerds, Scientists, and Intellectuals from the Creators of inkstinct offers readers a look at some cutting-edge designs from some of the most sought-after and acclaimed contemporary tattoo artists worldwide. These tattoo ideas feature themes from science fiction and fantasy, as well as a wide range of topics across science, mathematics, literature, and philosophy. It also includes commentary from creators of the Inkstinct project (which connects people with the finest tattoo art from 380,000 studios worldwide and has an Instagram fan base of more than 1 million) and interviews with world-renowned masters like Eva Krbdk (460K followers), David Cote (232K followers), and Thomas Eckeard (169K followers), this is the definitive tattoo inspiration sourcebook for hipsters, bookworms, scientists, academics, engineers, and, of course, geeks!

Geek Ink: The World's Smartest Tattoos for Rebels, Nerds, Scientists, and Intellectuals is a fascinating wish list for me. I have three tattoos, and one that I always wanted but never got. However, I am always looking at ideas for more ink that I will likely never get- because life and raising kids tends to eat up any discretionary funds before I can even consider spending the money on some more ink. I loved the chance to learn more about some of the most talented tattoo artists from all over the world and their styles. I love the art and the discipline that goes into this kind of work. The dedication and love of art is inspiring. As with any art form, some styles are more pleasing to me personally than others, but even the styles that do not speak to me are impressive. I just wish that any of the artists were local, and that I could afford them.

In the gallery portion of the book I loved the variety and artistry that was on display. The collection is organized by theme, making it easy to find the perfect piece of art to lust after. My personal favorites can be found in the animal, fantasy, science fiction, and literature sections. However, there were beautiful and artistic pieces in each section that might inspire readers. I did not find a tattoo to beat out the one that has been on my mind for years now, but folks in need of tattoo inspiration might find something perfect for their own next work of inky art. 

Book Review: Who Knew: Questions That Will Make You Think Again by Sarah Herman

Who Knew: Questions That Will Make You Think Again by Sarah Herman is a non fiction book that answers many questions you might not think to ask. Why do elephants have such big ears? What's the difference between fog and mist? Who invented sliced bread? Be the smartest slacker in the break room, the brainiest guest at the wedding, and the cleverest cat at the cocktail party. Filled with gems of wisdom to dazzle your brain cells, there are plenty of tales to surprise and delight even the most ardent trivia fan. From the plagues of the Middle Ages and the rules of Roman architecture to culinary customs, presidential assassinations, and the contents of James Bond's glass; it is all covered. There is also a fun quiz at the end of each chapter to prepare you for mastermind status in no time.

Who Knew: Questions That Will Make You Think Again is a fun collection of information that might take some readers by surprise. I love to learn this type of odd facts, so knew some of the information already, but still enjoyed the read. I think the organization and presentation of the facts was well done, and I enjoyed the time spent reading it. I think this is a great book for those that need something to read in short bursts, and for those that like to know the odder and more eclectic bits of information that has no actual impact of your life, but is just cool to know.  Trivia masters, Jeopardy watchers, and know-it-alls like myself will find value in the read and share the tidbits with others. 

Book Review: What We See in the Stars: An Illustrated Tour of the Night Sky

What We See in the Stars: An Illustrated Tour of the Night Sky by Kelsey Oseid is an illustrated guide to the myths, histories, and science of the celestial bodies of our solar system, with stories and information about constellations, planets, comets, the northern lights, and more. It includes more than 100 magical pieces of original art, all accompanied by text that shares both related legends, lore, and scientific facts. This book covers the constellations, the moon, the bright stars, and the visible planets, as well as less familiar celestial phenomena like the outer planets, nebulae, and deep space. Adults seeking to recapture the magic of youthful stargazing, younger readers interested in learning about natural history and outer space, and those who appreciate beautiful, hand-painted art will all delight in this charming book.

What We See in the Stars: An Illustrated Tour of the Night Sky is a beautiful and informative read. I found it to be well organized, accessible, and interesting to read. I have always been fascinated by the sky, I was one of those kids that wanted to be an astronaut, until I discovered how much math and engineering was involved in the process. In fact, I was in the astronomy club in high school and loved every minute of it. I still read about and study the sky when I can. I like that this book features both the science and the related legends and history that make astronomy so fascinating to me. The science is well worded and organized, and not lacking in any way when combined with the other included information. The hand painted artwork only adds to the wonder this book inspires. What a great book for anyone with interest in the night sky and all the science, myth, and legend that can be found there.

What We See in the Stars: An Illustrated Tour of the Night Sky is a wonderful read, and one that I might add to my library. My only issues were with the digital galley, which has no bearing on the final product but reduced my ability to fully enjoy the combination of stunning artwork and the text.

Early Book Review: The Great Penguin Rescue: Saving the African Penguins by Sandra Markle

The Great Penguin Rescue: Saving the African Penguins by Sandra Markle is currently scheduled for release on September 1 2017. The most recent addition to Markle's books about animals at risk focuses on the African penguins, which waddle around nesting colonies in lower numbers than ever before. Despite South African government efforts to protect the penguin colonies and their ocean fish supply, young penguins still struggle to survive. Fuzzy chicks waiting for food in open nests may overheat in the sun or become prey. Others simply may not get enough food to survive on their own once their parents leave. But new conservation methods, including rescuing and hand-feeding vulnerable chicks, are giving experts hope. Can volunteers and scientists help save Africa's only penguins before it's too late? 

The Great Penguin Rescue is a well researched and written non fiction book for children. Markle has included full color photographs, information that is interesting and accessible, and opportunities for readers of all ages to continue their own research on the topic. I expected nothing less, following the other books of hers that I have read about creatures that are endangered around the world. I like that she shows has natural and man made problems effect the world, and these penguins in particular, but does not stop there. Readers also get a look at the steps that have been taken in order to help the population of the African Penguins grow and thrive, as well as things that are in the works for the future. I believe Markle strikes a good balance between bringing awareness to the serious problems people have had a hand in, and offering hope and encouragement for the future. 

The Great Penguin Rescue is a great read for any reader that loves animals, cares about the environment, or wants to learn more about efforts people are making to help endangered animals. I recommend checking out all of Markle's books, so do not stop here.

Book Review: Out of the Box by Jemma Westing

Out of the Box by Jemma Westing includes twenty-five interactive cardboard model projects that will encourage kids' creativity and "out of the box" thinking skills through hands-on learning and the application of science-based principles. Kids can bring old cardboard to life and build recycled creations they can play with, sit in, or wear. From small-scale gifts to large constructions there are clear, step-by-step instructions to show kids how to make dinosaurs, masks, race cars, and so much more. There are also images and ideas to encourage them to make their own unique projects when they feel ready. Each of the projects use recycled materials, including cardboard rolls and boxes, so all the supplies should be easy to find right at home.

Out of the Box is a well written group project instructions and inspirations for making a wide variety of creations with common cardboard objects we all are likely to have around the house. The additional supplies, such as glue sticks, scissors, markers, duct tape and the like are also things that many of us have on hand. Even if you do not have every tool that the instructions use throughout the book, there are certainly some projects that will require no shopping. The projects include games, animals, wearable masks,  ships, a 'cityscape', things for pets, and more. Even though I am an 'adult' I still want to try out some of these projects. So I work in a school and I will find a way to make it about the kids, but I want them for me- they are just a good excuse. I found the instructions to be understandable and easy to follow, although some of the projects are significantly more difficult than others. The photographs that accompany each project are helpful and clear.  One of my favorite things about the book was the inclusion of "Try This" ideas which encourages kids to take their projects to the next level, and to truly make it all their own.

Out of the Box is a wonderful addition to school, public, and personal libraries. While it is a wonderful jumping off point for organized or personal crafts (i.e. makerspace, classroom, storytimes, homeschooling) it would also be a great resource for anyone that likes to build and create. I will be trying to get a copy for my school library for next year.

Book Review: The Book of Massively Epic Engineering Disasters: 33 Thrilling Experiments Based on History's Greatest Blunders by Sean Connolly

The Book of Massively Epic Engineering Disasters: 33 Thrilling Experiments Based on History's Greatest Blunders by Sean Connolly is a children's non fiction book that explores and explains some of the more interesting engineering blunders of the world. Ever wonder why Italy’s Leaning Tower of Pisa has been slowly toppling over for centuries? Stack books on a foundation of paper balls to learn about rickety building foundations and center of mass. How about the 15-foot-high tidal wave of molasses that tore through the streets of Boston in the Great Molasses Flood of 1919? Karate chop a full tube of toothpaste (outside!) to demonstrate the messy behavior of non-Newtonian fluids.

The Book of Massively Epic Engineering Disasters offers young (and adult) readers information and activities that bring that information home. It is an illustrated look at the physics and technology that makes up crumbling buildings, sinking ships, wobbly bridges, mud-stuck tanks, and so on. I like that the book covers well known engineering issues, like the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Titanic, but it also deals with lesser known mistakes like the  Fidnae Stadium collapse in ancient Rome. There are also  33 hands-on experiments to help readers see their new understanding and information in action.

The Book of Massively Epic Engineering Disasters will help Children and adults understand the science and concepts behind these mishaps and disasters while offering pathways to further information and research. This is a good book for use in schools, independent study, homeschooling, or simply reading by those that are interested in the information included.