(3) K-3 Library Smarts series. These books provide useful introductory information for lessons in using the library, its resources, and the basics of research. Each spread includes an upbeat photograph or instructional close-up and one or two corresponding paragraphs, aimed at emerging readers, on the facing page. This well-designed series will be helpful with groups but also works for independent exploration. Glos., ind. Review covers these Library Smarts titles: Do Your Research, Stay Safe Online, Explore the Library, and Know the Parts of a Book.

Reviewer: Pam Yosca

(3) K-3 Library Smarts series. These books provide useful introductory information for lessons in using the library, its resources, and the basics of research. Each spread includes an upbeat photograph or instructional close-up and one or two corresponding paragraphs, aimed at emerging readers, on the facing page. This well-designed series will be helpful with groups but also works for independent exploration. Glos., ind. Review covers these Library Smarts titles: Do Your Research, Stay Safe Online, Explore the Library, and Know the Parts of a Book.

Reviewer: Pam Yosca

(4) K-3 Lightning Bolt Books series. These books present basic facts and historical background about the title landmarks. The texts, in large, easy-to-read font, offer minimal but useful information; a few complex concepts (e.g., cofferdams, setbacks) are included without much explanation. Vivid photographs cover most of the pages. A cartoony map is appended in each volume. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Lightning Bolt Books titles: The Empire State Building, The Capitol Building, and The Hoover Dam.

Reviewer: Christina Dorr

(4) K-3 Pull Ahead Books: Forces of Nature series. Each book defines a natural disaster in simple terms, describing how and why it occurs and the destruction it causes. Safety advice is also provided, though explanations can be overly simplistic. One or two stock photos, some with useful captions, accompany the manageable texts. "More About" and "Facts" sections offer more detailed information as well as comparisons and examples. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Pull Ahead Books: Forces of Nature titles: Hurricanes, Forest Fires, and Earthquakes.

Reviewer: Sethany Rancier Alongi

(3) 4-6 Motor Mania series. These informative books examine three types of vehicles used in racing, discussing the history, characteristics, and capabilities of each. Racing enthusiasts will appreciate the many well-captioned photos. A gallery of photographs of and commentaries on notable personalities and special racing cars, past and present, is included in each book. Sidebars, maps, and diagrams give more information. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these Motor Mania titles: Hot Rods, Stock Cars, and Formula One Race Cars.

Reviewer: Luther B. Clegg

(3) K-3 Pull Ahead Books series. Close-up photographs and a simple, informative text introduce each mammal and its habitat, habits, characteristics, and threats. The books' small size makes them especially attractive to young readers. A range map and labeled drawing of each animal are appended. Glos. Review covers these Pull Ahead Books titles: Jumping Kangaroos and Chattering Chipmunks.

Reviewer: Cindy Lombardo

(3) K-3 Pull Ahead Books series. These small, square books provide interesting and easy-to-read overviews about motorized vehicles. Basic facts are paired with photos that extend the simple text. Though the books are short, they answer questions frequently asked by young readers and are suitable for those just gaining confidence in reading. Glos., ind. Review covers these Pull Ahead Books titles: Police Cars, Powerboats, Stock Cars, Motorcycles, Ambulances, and Formula One Race Cars.

Reviewer: Barbara Barstow