(4) K-3 Photo-Illustrated Biography series. Occasionally dry but easy to read and understand, these simple biographies adequately retell each subject's life story and contribution to society. Archival photos and reproductions enhance the text; however, the images are occasionally paired with boxed quotations, while the captions confusingly appear on the opposite pages. Timeline, websites, reading list. Glos., ind. [Review covers these Photo-Illustrated Biography titles: Clara Barton, Helen Keller, John Adams, and Rosa Parks.]

Reviewer: Cyrisse Jaffee

(4) 4-6 Behind the Moves series. These formulaic high-interest books introduce each sport and its history, then break down basic and advanced moves, tricks, or techniques. A page of slang terms, standouts in the field, related competitions and organizations, and a chapter on safety are also included. The books are illustrated with action color photos (Wakeboarding would have benefited from a panel of time-sequenced photos). Directory, reading list. Glos., ind. [Review covers these Behind the Moves titles: Extreme Mountain Biking Moves, Extreme Rock Climbing Moves, Extreme Freestyle Motocross Moves, and Extreme Wakeboarding Moves.]

Reviewer: Bridget McCaffrey

(4) 4-6 Behind the Moves series. These formulaic high-interest books introduce each sport and its history, then break down basic and advanced moves, tricks, or techniques. A page of slang terms, standouts in the field, related competitions and organizations, and a chapter on safety are also included. The books are illustrated with action color photos (Wakeboarding would have benefited from a panel of time-sequenced photos). Directory, reading list. Glos., ind. [Review covers these Behind the Moves titles: Extreme Mountain Biking Moves, Extreme Rock Climbing Moves, Extreme Freestyle Motocross Moves, and Extreme Wakeboarding Moves.]

Reviewer: Bridget McCaffrey

(4) PS Illustrated by Jill Newton. In a cumulative tale, the barnyard animals quickly pass the news that "it's time"--the dog's puppies have been born. Although the story is predictable, the simple rhymed text has a repetitive refrain and soft illustrations that will appeal to a toddler audience. Reading tips for parents are included.

Reviewer: CHristine Sarrazin

(4) 4-6 Disaster! series. Two series books offer low-keyed introductions to high-profile historical events. Each simply written, somewhat repetitive narrative covers the history and design of the airship or the ocean liner, as well as "what went wrong" and "what we have learned." The books are illustrated with black-and-white archival photos, a "Fast Facts" chart, a list of relevant websites, and a timeline. Bib., glos., ind. [Review covers these Disaster! titles: The Hindenburg and The Titanic.]

Reviewer: Jack Forman

(4) 4-6 Disaster! series. Two series books offer low-keyed introductions to high-profile historical events. Each simply written, somewhat repetitive narrative covers the history and design of the airship or the ocean liner, as well as "what went wrong" and "what we have learned." The books are illustrated with black-and-white archival photos, a "Fast Facts" chart, a list of relevant websites, and a timeline. Bib., glos., ind. [Review covers these Disaster! titles: The Hindenburg and The Titanic.]

Reviewer: Jack Forman

(4) 4-6 Predators in the Wild series. Basic facts about great white sharks are conveyed in an easy-to-read but dry text aimed at reluctant readers. Color photos depict great white sharks from a variety of angles, and helpful charts clarify significant facts and dispel common myths. A list of useful addresses and Internet sites is included. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Jim St. Claire