(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Fred Harper. As in George Washington's Rules to Live By, Kostyal pitches fifty iconic and inspirational adages from Franklin's writings to today's youth. Categories include tranquility, industry, order, humility, and more. Each quotation is followed by Kostyal's explanation and brief historical information. Harper's caricature illustrations add a touch of humor to the otherwise preachy vibe. Websites. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Luther B. Clegg

(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Fred Harper. A zany bearded geologist and his rodent sidekick, Digger, lead readers through informative descriptions of numerous topics in the earth sciences, from geologic time to earth materials to natural disasters and plate tectonics. Bright spreads cram in a multitude of features: fictional cartoons of the characters' escapades, color photographs and diagrams, scientist bios, and "Dirtmeister's Nugget" sidebars with facts in dizzying fonts. Ind.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford

(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Fred Harper. Kostyal selects fifty rules of conduct from young Washington's personal journal that remain appropriate for today's youth; categories include table etiquette, decorum, hygiene, and integrity. Each rule is written in the vernacular of Washington's Colonial era and is followed by explanatory comments and light historical information. Caricaturist Harper's comical illustrations are often grotesquely exaggerated, but they lighten the didactic tone. Websites. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Luther B. Clegg