(2) K-3 Illustrated by Iacopo Bruno. In 1778 Paris, Franz Anton Mesmer convinced many they were cured of ailments through "animal magnetism." Benjamin Franklin, Antoine Lavoisier, and others debunked Mesmer's procedure through their invention of the "blind" test and discovery of the placebo effect. Aside from the misdirection of giving Franklin all the glory, Rockliff's text is engaging and lively and pairs beautifully with Bruno's dramatic, bold illustrations. Bib.

Reviewer: Nina Lindsay | Horn Book Magazine Issue: January, 2015

(3) YA Profiles in Science series. Besides noting personal and public milestones, these biographies clearly explain both men's significant scientific contributions: Lavoisier's work with oxygen and chemical nomenclature and Darwin's painstaking, lengthy, and controversial development of the theories of natural selection and evolution. Well-chosen photographs and diagrams illustrate the scrupulously documented texts, which offer good historical context. Timeline, websites. Bib., ind. Review covers these Profiles in Science titles: Fire, Water, and Air and Origin.

Reviewer: Frieda F. Bostian

(4) 4-6 Great Minds of Science series. These revised editions recount important scientific developments and discoveries as well as provide information about the scientists' lives. The writing is generally straightforward but tends to be simplistic, making the subjects seem dull, or confusing when trying to explain their theories. Black-and-white illustrations include portraits and scientific diagrams. Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Great Minds of Science titles: Charles Darwin, Isaac Newton, Antoine Lavoisier, Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, and William Harvey.

Reviewer: The Horn Book, Inc.