Looking for science-minded home or classroom projects for elementary-school children? These books in the new Project: STEAM series have plenty of hands-on ideas to keep young readers busy. Each project includes numbered instructions, and colorful photos document each step of the process. Sometimes, the instructions are a bit vague (for example, to “find a roller coaster design program online”). The science is generally helpful, but not all of the books provide the same level of science support. Goo Makers presents adequate instructions for making slime and other gooey substances, but the science support is relatively weak, with some explanations of...

Children will love learning how kids around the world go to school, play sports, use technology, and more. Each topic is presented with one or two lines of text, large captioned pictures, and a simple map to provide context. Many countries are represented, including Haiti, Panama, China, and New Zealand. The full-page photographs are inviting. Included in each book: detailed suggestions for educators, sample comprehension questions for students, and a photographic glossary of new vocabulary terms highlighted throughout the text. VERDICT Early geography collections can’t go wrong.  — School Library Journal, April 2018 VIEW NOW

This short series introduces basic natural elements to young students. Trees, rainbows, waterfalls, and clouds are explored in moderate detail, making these too advanced for kindergartners but not quite in-depth enough for older students. However, the pictures are clearly explained with captions, and quick facts are included at the end for additional comprehension value. Notable about this series is the detailed guide for teachers at the beginning of each volume, which provides a short overview on how to present new vocabulary and sample questions to ask students. VERDICT This well-translated introduction to nature is ideal for most schools. — School...

Readers will learn how to be helpful in this illustrated series. The titles focus not only on how children can help their peers, but also on situational examples of how they can be more responsible with resources. Helpful tips featured at the beginning and end of each book encourage thoughtful conversations between adults and children, considering questions like “What is happening on this page?” and “What do you use to clean your house?” The various illustration styles are all cheerful and expressive and depict a variety of racial identities. VERDICT Great for reading in a group setting or one-on-one. —...

A look at all the exciting activities that happen during the school day for soon-to-be kindergartners. Readers will find out what to expect each day: how to count, how to solve problems in the classroom, and how to prepare for school every morning. Comprehension questions and suggestions for how to present the material are included to assist educators and caregivers. Illustrations and text are presented on the same page but are spaced enough so as not to overwhelm little ones. Tantas clases includes sing-along songs, which will encourage participation when presented in a group setting. The illustrations do depict kids...