(3) K-3 Step into Reading series. Photographs by Michael J. Doolittle. This introduction to the two-wheeled vehicle includes information on its invention and history, uses for motorcycles, and trivia. Varied action photographs in addition to an enthusiastic text ("motorcycles are awesome") rich with attention-grabbing facts (the first few pages are devoted to the Knievels and the last chapter focuses on kids participating in motocross racing) make this an action-packed easy reader.

Reviewer: Rebecca Reed Whidden

(2) K-3 Photographs by Michael J. Doolittle. This photo-essay traces the rise of the Random House building from conception to completion; a brief text outlines some of the construction jobs and challenges. Dramatic photos will attract youngsters and whet their appetites for more information. Goodman conveys respect for the builders and awe at the precision and effort it takes to erect such a structure.

Reviewer: Betty Carter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: January, 2005

(3) K-3 Step into Reading series. Photographs by Michael J. Doolittle. This book presents a brief overview of the history of helicopters, including information about how they work and their many uses. Plenty of photographs enhance the text, which is divided into six chapters and uses a large typeface. The subject may draw in reluctant readers.

Reviewer: Luther B. Clegg

(4) K-3 Photographs by Michael J. Doolittle. With clear examples, this book discusses the ways in which plants have adapted to survive, such as having leaves that maximize sunlight, flowers whose color or shape attracts pollinating insects, or seeds that can travel. The layout encourages readers to guess at some plants' adaptations before turning the page to get the answer, but a number of the color photos are too small or don't show enough of the plant. Ind.

Reviewer: Bridget McCaffrey

(4) K-3 Photographs by Michael J. Doolittle. With clear examples, this book describes the ways in which animals have adapted to survive, such as keeping warm or cool, being camouflaged from predators, or attracting a mate. The layout encourages readers to guess at some animals' adaptations before turning the page to find the answer, but a number of the color photos are too small or only show a portion of the animal. Ind.

Reviewer: Bridget McCaffrey

(4) K-3 Photographs by Michael J. Doolittle. Five-year-old Eliza and her parents leave their Connecticut home and learn to adjust to a different kind of life in Malaysia. Written from Eliza's point-of-view, the text is illustrated with colorful photos, both of which document her reactions to such novelties as outhouses and the local market. While the book lacks substantive information about Malaysian culture, it may appeal to American children about to embark on a similar journey.

Reviewer:

(4) 4-6 Photographs by Michael J. Doolittle. Goodman relates the experiences of a group of middle-school students from Boston who travel to the Bay of Fundy in Maine to study tidal zone ecology and physiology. The material is presented in an inquiry-based, question-centered style and is paired with effective, scrapbook-like color photos. The kids' dialogue becomes somewhat tiresome but adds appeal and accessibility for young readers. Glos.

Reviewer: Daniel Brabander

(2) 4-6 Photographs by Michael J. Doolittle. Modern eighth graders experience the long-ago habitations of the Pueblo people as they work side-by-side with archaeologists in this account of a week-long field trip to Crow Canyon Archaeological Center in Colorado and Mesa Verde National Park. The book effectively uses the reactions and questions of the kids to demonstrate the work of archaeology and to introduce Pueblo history. Bib., glos.

Reviewer: The Horn Book, Inc.