(3) 4-6 Scientists in the Field series. Photographs by Andy Comins. Whale biologist Ken Balcomb has spent decades documenting orca populations in the Pacific Northwest. Author Valice describes her outings with Balcomb and other researchers as they observe whale behavior, perform biopsies in the field and check for chemicals in the lab, and investigate the whales' Chinook salmon diets. Photographs add interest, detail the scientists' work, and highlight the orcas' individual characteristics. Ind.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford

(1) 4-6 Scientists in the Field series. Illustrated by Guido De Filippo. Photographs by Andy Comins. Turner joins scientist Gavin Hunt to learn about his research on New Caledonian crows' problem-solving and tool-making, and she carefully steps readers through experiments that test the crows' ability to think through tasks. A friendly tone effortlessly moves from amusing accounts of crow antics to sophisticated explanations of crow and human evolution. Arresting photographs highlight the birds' personalities and intelligence. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2016

(4) 4-6 Scientists in the Field series. Photographs by Andy Comins. Dr. Randy Lewis and his team have produced "spider goats" by injecting golden orb genetic material into developing goats, who then produce milk containing the spider silk protein; in sufficient quantities this could be of immense commercial value. The positive account glosses over controversy (one small section addresses the ethics of transgenic organisms). Excellent photographs document the fascinating research. Reading list. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Devon Johnson

(1) 4-6 Scientists in the Field series. Photographs by Andy Comins. Readers are introduced to Dr. Tyrone Hayes, who studies the effects of pesticides on frog development. Hayes travels to a pond research site and back to his laboratory, explaining step by step the careful procedures his team follows. Sharp, vivid photographs alternate between portrayals of the scientists--at work and relaxing--and abundant images of the frogs they study. Websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2009