(3) K-3 Fact Finders: Explore the Biomes series. Simple text introduces these two biomes and explores the life within them, with the notions of interdependence and ecological balance foremost. Colorful photographs depict the native plants and animals of these complex environments; other photos show kids in action helping to preserve the environments. The clean design is supported by some additional sidebar information. Reading list. Glos., ind. Review covers these Fact Finders: Explore the Biomes titles: Explore the Ocean and Explore the Deciduous Forest.

Reviewer: Paula M. Cairo

(3) YA Lerner Biographies series. Edison was a genius, but this ably written book emphasizes his work ethic. Often toiling through the night, seven days a week, he helped bring about three new industries: commercial electric power, the modern music business, and the motion-picture industry. Numerous black-and-white photos and illustrations show Edison at work and with his family, inventions, and laboratories. Reading list. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Gail Hedges

(4) 4-6 Visual Geography series. A dry but informative text introduces the geography, history, government, culture, and economy of Puerto Rico. In a textbook-like design, color photographs and maps offer a useful resource for the report-driven reader. The book is intended to be used with a designated website. Directory, reading list, timeline, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Tamara DePasquale

(3) YA After summarizing the history and geography of the Galápagos Islands, this book looks more closely at three of its important endemic species: tortoises, frigate birds, and marine iguanas. Besides giving information in steady prose about the animals' features and habits, the book also recounts the effects of human intervention on the islands and, in a strongly cautionary tone, argues for species protection. The text is illustrated with color photos. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Frieda F. Bostian

(4) YA A & E Biography series. The concise biography recalls Bruce Lee's childhood in Hong Kong, the martial arts talent that brought him movie fame, and his role as a husband and father. The last chapter concerns Brandon Bruce Lee, who followed in his father's footsteps as an actor and met an ill-fated death at an early age. Standard photographs in black and white and color accompany the text. A pronunciation guide and filmography are included. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(4) 4-6 Port Cities of North America series. Extremely active port cities in Puerto Rico, Mexico, and the United States are the focus of three books that trace the development of the ports, discuss their main exports and imports, and provide general information on shipping trade. Each volume concludes with a chapter celebrating the port city's culture. Illustrated with stock photographs in both black and white and color, the texts are dry and slow paced. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta