Monster Science: Could Monsters Survive (and Thrive!) in
the Real World?
Helaine Becker (Author)
Phil McAndrew (Illustrator)
Kids Can Press
Middle Grades, Non-Fiction
Publication Date: September 6, 2016
Monster Science dives deeper into the history, experiments, and facts surrounding each chosen monster than you might expect. The book is divided into chapters by monster (Frankenstein, Vampires, Big Foot, Zombies, Werewolves, and Sea Monsters) with a quick quiz at the end of every chapter. Within the chapter the span of scientific topics covered is wide ranging and could be confusing for the younger end of the target audience (Grades 3-7). However, older students in that range and science lovers across the spectrum will relish the details, depth, and colorful illustrations that explain topics from electricity to neurons to transplants.
I like that the introduction of Monster Science clearly states that the book intends to give you information so that you can decide for yourself whether or not these monsters do, or at least could, exist. This approach creates a fun way for kids to practice synthesizing information - whether they're aware that is what they're doing or not.
Teachers could use this book as a foundation for
argumentative/opinion writing, allowing students to argue which monster is most
plausible or whether or not a specific monster could exist. Monster Science can
also be used as a jumping off point (especially around Halloween in October)
for further exploration of the many topics included like real animals that suck
blood, confirmation bias, or parasites.
If you’re interested in reading Monster Science, you
can purchase a copy here on Amazon.
*A copy of this book was provided free of charge for an
honest review.
------------------------------------------------
Get book suggestions for your kids right in your inbox!
Sign up for my monthly newsletter by clicking here.
------------------------------------------------
No comments:
Post a Comment