(4) 4-6 Edge Books: World Record Breakers series. A high-energy narrative examines deadly creatures, from aquatic and land-based predators to parasites. Special attention is given to venomous and immensely strong animals, but disease-carriers are presented as the most dangerous. Sidebars offer quick facts and relevant vocabulary definitions, while dynamic photographs round out the presentation. Despite a haphazard organization and layout, this broad overview will intrigue mid-grade predator enthusiasts. Reading list. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Russell Perry

(4) 4-6 Hero Journals series. Two great military leaders from the ancient world are profiled. Thorough first-person narratives detail their early lives through their rise and fall as generals. The scrapbook layout of maps, illustrations, and photos further supports the journal premise, but the scriptlike font makes reading difficult. A journaling prompt is appended. Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Hero Journals titles: Alexander the Great and Hannibal of Carthage.

Reviewer: Antonio Trujillo

(4) 4-6 Velocity: Classified series. After briefly setting the historical context, this book features six profiles of spies operating during World War II, including two women. Archival photos and reproductions (mostly black-and-white) accompany the readable chapters, which sometimes end abruptly. The pages are busy with images, text boxes, keyword definitions, and unnecessary graphics, but this is an accessible glimpse at a high-interest topic. Reading list. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Jack Forman

(4) 4-6 Science Missions series. Aimed at reluctant readers, this book explains a high-interest subject in straightforward language. Short sections contain a few paragraphs and numbered and bulleted lists. Plentiful pictures, diagrams, and stories of actual cloned domestic and farm animals add interest. Chapters address myths and cloning portrayals in movies and literature. Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Gail Hedges

(3) 4-6 Edge Books: Truth and Rumors series. Illustrated by Eldon Doty. Did John Quincy Adams give an interview while skinny-dipping? Stories, myths, and rumors surrounding nine United States presidents, from Washington to Carter, are examined in order to test their veracity. Facts are then presented that either confirm or refute the story; readers are encouraged to think critically about sources. Cartoon illustrations further enliven the volume. Reading list. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Patricia Riley