Who Gives a Poop?: Surprising Science from One End to the Other

by Heather L. Montgomery Illustrated by Iris Gottlieb 3 stars A unique read packed with interesting information told in an engaging format. Each chapter shows how waste is used to better understand the world and solve problems. From protecting endangered species and producing energy to curing infections and revitalizing land, poop can do some amazing…

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Pluto!: Not a Planet? Not a Problem! (Our Universe #7)

by Stacy McAnulty Illustrated by Stevie Lewis 5 stars Told with humor and engaging artwork, this adorable nonfiction picture book lets Pluto tell his story. He talks about his place in the solar system, his planetary family, his features, and the history of his discovery and reclassification. Such a fun book. The illustrations are so…

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Wonderfully Wired Brains: An Introduction to the World of Neurodiversity

by Louise Gooding Illustrated by Ruth Burrows 5 stars A fantastic introduction to how the brain works and neurodiversity. Burrows works in modern understandings about different conditions, including how gender may affect getting a diagnosis. The book covers some basics on how the brain works, dives into different neurodiverse experiences, gives a little history, and…

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Fungus is Among Us! by Joy Keller

Illustrated by Erica Salcedo 5 stars A hilarious and educational book. Follow the main character as she tries to escape the fungi in her life only to discover that it is everywhere. Told in rhythmic, rhyming text, the book goes through various types of fungi, from mushrooms to lichen to mold to yeast. Also discusses…

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If Sharks Disappeared by Lily Williams

4 stars In this nonfiction picture book, Williams discusses the role of sharks in the oceans and what could possibly happen if sharks went extinct. Wonderful to see sharks presented beyond a scary element. The text is simple, breaking down a complex system into something more easily digestible for a young audience. There are more…

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Frankenslime by Joy Keller

Illustrated by Ashley Belote 4 stars A fun story about experimentation, creativity, and new friends. Victoria Franken loves slime. She’s known for her creative recipes. But has her latest recipe gone too far? A delightful spin on the story of Frankenstein. While it is silly and fun, it also works in some scientific elements in…

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Pure Sea Glass: Discovering Nature’s Vanishing Gems

by Richard LaMotte Photography by Celia Pearson 4 stars A great resource for learning more about sea glass. Provides details about the origin, history, and prevalence of different colors and types of glass. Also provides details for identification of bottles, tableware, flat glass, marbles, insulators, and more. There is also a section that breaks down…

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Primates

The Fearless Science of Jane Goodall, Dian Fossey, and Biruté Galdikas by Jim Ottaviani, Illustrated by Maris Wicks 2 stars I really wanted to love this book. The illustrations are great, often working in details that aren’t touched on in the text. I love the focus on women in science and their extraordinary passion. However,…

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