PA Not-Ready-For-Newbery Recommended Nonfiction Titles 2001

Agosta, William C.  Thieves, Deceivers, and Killers: Tales of Chemistry in Nature.  Princeton University Press, 2001.  0-691-00488-9.  241p.  $26.95.  Grades 10+.   From bacteria that produce yogurt and cheese, to fragrances that ensure pollination of plants and reproduction of species, William Agosta explains, in a simplified scientific manner, how organisms react to the chemical signals of other species. Interesting material for browsing, for larger collections, or for where there is a need for this type of information.                              Elizabeth McChesney

Alagna, Magdalena. Everything You Need to Know about Chemotherapy. New York:Rosen, 2001. 0-8239-3394-6. 64p. $23.95. Gr. 6-10.   This title, part of the Need to Know Library, presents basic background information about chemotherapy.  Alagna has covered the definitions of cancer and chemotherapy, the side effects of the treatment and a list of questions to ask doctors about treatment options.  In addition, suggestions for further help include web sites, addresses and phone numbers of various organizations, and additional titles noted at the end of the book.  Students will use this to gain an initial understanding of chemo-therapy.        Sandra Krieg

Aleskasander, Igor. How to Build a Mind: Toward Machines with Imagination.  New York: Columbia University Press, 2001. 0-231-12012-5. 187p. $24.95. Do we need to know all there is to know about the human mind before we can create artificial minds? No, according to neural systems engineer Igor Aleksander. By his own admission, Aleksander makes some bold statements about the mind/body problem, theology and thinking computers. In a most accessible fashion, this book cuts through the jargon of philosophical isms, introduces the readers to some of the great thinkers in the field of artificial intelligence and demystifies and makes a case for the inevitability of machine consciousness.  Michael Wagman, Teacher, Springfield Twp. High School

Ali: The Movie and the Man.  Newmarket Press, 2001.  1-55704-510-0   $22.95  Grades 8+ . This lavishly illustrated official companion to the film contains the full screenplay, writings about Ali by notable journalists, and offers fascinating background of Will Smithís transformation from slim actor to convincing boxer. Will be very popular among fans.          Joyce Valenza

Allen, Henry.  What it Felt Like: Living in the American Century.  Pantheon, 2001.  0-37542063-0. $20.00.  Gr. 7+. This is a gem of a book that will be loved by teachers of American history. Each of the ten chapters, which open with an image and a ìmotto,î is an evocative essay that captures the history, culture, and mood of the decade.  A wonderful read-aloud to begin study of each period.            Joyce Valenza

Alschuler, William A. The Science of UFOs. New York : St. Martinís Press, 2001  0-312-26225-6  211 p.  $23.95  Gr. 9-adult. Astronomer Alschuler examines the mystery surrounding UFOís from a scientific perspective.  He employs the constructs of science fiction, explains scientific theories in simple terms and from a cultural perspective.  A refreshing look at an age-old question.  A good companion to The Physics of Star Trek by Lawrence Krauss.                       Pat Naismith

Alter, Judith. Extraordinary Explorers and Adventurers. NY: Childrenís Press, 2001. 0-516-21693-7. 288p. $37.00. Gr. 5+. Starting from ancient times through today, those who set out to see their world and beyond are chronicled.  Hercules and Jason lead off as the first of the adventurer/ explorers.  Ms. Alter has included many explorers that are not easily found elsewhere, such as Hoei-shin, who explored North and South America in the fifth century and Jacqueline Cochran, the first women to break the sound barrier.  This reference title will be very useful for reports and general browsing.  An extensive bibliography including both books and websites is included.                                   Sandra Krieg

Ambrose, Stephen E. The Good Fight: How World War II Was Won. New York: Atheneum, 2001. 0-689-84361-5. 96p. $19.95 Gr. 7-12. Donít be fooled ñ this is not a picture book!  It is a gripping photo essay of World War II.  Ambrose, the author of Band of Brothers, has written for young people, and engrossing account of the war.  The straight-forward text pulls no punches as it takes readers from Pearl Harbor to the end of the war.  The photos are eleoquent, and at times, startling.  An outstanding overview! Every library should have this book.        Pat Naismith

American Decades 1990-1999.  New  York: UXL/Gale Group, 2001. 0-7876-4030-1.  673p. Gr. 9+.   This newest volume in the American Decades series is as well organized and comprehensive as one would expect.  Here are the events the people, and the significance of the 1990s.       Pam Kavanaugh                            

American War Library Series. $27.45 each.  Lucent, 2001.  Yancey, Diane.  Vietnam War: Life of an American Soldier.  1-5606-676-8 . Roberts, Russell.  Vietnam War: Leaders and Generals. 1-56006-717-9. Campbell, Geoffrey A. Persian Gulf War: Life of an American Soldier.1-56006-713-6 . Each multivolume set offers historical perspective, descriptions of battles, key personalities, and a good feel for daily life on the battlefield.  Each compact, yet comprehensive volume includes chronologies, maps, photographs, and annotated bibliographies.    Joyce Valenza

Animal Ways Series:   Ruff, Sue and Wilson, Don E.  Bats.  New York:  Benchmark Books/Marshall Cavendish, 2001.  0-7614-1137-2.  $19.95. 104p. Gr. 6-8.  Jango-Cohen, Judith.  Crocodiles.  New York:  Benchmark Books/Marshall Cavendish, 2001.  0-7614-1136-4.  $19.95. 112p. Gr. 6-8.  Greenberg, Dan.  Frogs.  New York:  Benchmark Books/Marshall Cavendish, 2001.  0-7614-1138-0. $19.95.  112p.   Gr. 6-8. Fleisher, Paul.  Gorillas.  New York:  Benchmark Books/Marshall Cavendish, 2001. 0-7614-1140-2.  $19.95. 112p. Gr. 6-8. Most animal titles up for purchase are of the coffee table variety or too young for high school use. Each of these beautiful volumes is perfect for research.  The set includes cheetahs, ants, bears, crocodiles, frogs, gorillas, horses, sharks, snakes and covers habitat, evolution issues, the life cycle, and survival issues.                  Joyce Valenza & Michelle Stone

Anne Frank in the World : 1929-1945.  Ed. The Anne Frank House.  New York: Knopf, 2001.  0-375-91177-4. 144p. $20.99.  Gr. 5-12. This is an excellent resource for school libraries where the study of the Holocaust includes the Diary of Anne Frank.  It uses Anne Frankís life and death as a frame for a book of photographs that shows what was going on in Europe prior to the time the family went into hiding until the liberation of Europe in 1945.  There are news photographs that show the effects of the Holocaust on the various communities and also family photographs that allow the reader to become familiar with the Frank family and identify with their struggle.  It shows the impact the Nazis had on culture and everyday life.  As I looked at pictures of Anne in a Montessori School and pictures of her family, it is easy to identify with the family and to then understand the impact of the Holocaust of millions of families.  This book discusses the continued inhumanity of man in other countries today (in particular, Yugoslavia and Bosnia) and how individuals must work to stop the violence.                                   Peg Kleppinger

Ansay, A. Manette. Limbo: A Memoir. New York: William Morrow, 2001. 0-688-17286-5. 269p. $25.00. Gr. 10-adult. A. Manette Ansay grew up devoting herself to her music, and focusing all her energies towards a career as a concert pianist. After high school, as she is in full preparation for a musical career, she begins to experience neurological problems which grow increasingly serious, and eventually force her into a wheelchair and away from her dreams of a musical career. This memoir tells of her childhood and teen years in rural Wisconsin, and relates her attempts to conquer this devastating disease, still undiagnosed as she is writing this at the age of 36, although listed as "probable multiple sclerosis" on her medical records. Turning to writing when her body would not allow her to pursue music, Ansay has become a successful author whose indomitable spirit fills the pages of this biography. Biography          Nancy Chrismer

Armies of the Past :  Butterfield, Moira. Going to War in Roman Times. 0-531-14591-3. 32p. _______. Going to War in World War II. 0-531-14596-4 32p. Gilbert, Adrian. Going to War in World War I. 0-531-14595-6. 32p. NY: Franklin Watts, 2001. $17.25.  Gr.4-7. Each volume in this set includes an area map, and a chronology of the times/war providing the students with a reference point for the information to follow.  Arranged in double-page spreads, each chapter contains text boxes, illustrations, and photographs.  The information is easily accessible and a glossary and index are included in these colorful, helpful titles.    Sandra Krieg 

Augustyn, Frank and Shelley Tanaka.  Footnotes: Dancing the Worldís Best Loved Ballets.  Brookfield, CT.:  Millbrook Press, 2001.  0-7613-2323-6.  96 p. $19.95  Gr. 6+.  If all you know about ballet is ìThe Nutcrackerî, and you want to know more, then Footnotes is the place to start.  Augustyn, a former principal dancer with the National Ballet of Canada, explains the language of dance, and the relationship between ballet, music and dancer.  Seven well-known ballets are briefly described, including the history of the ballet, a synopsis of the ballet, and the challenges facing both male and female dancers.  Color and black and white photos and a readable text make interesting reading and provide some guidelines for those who want to venture beyond the Sugar Plum Fairy.         Rosanne Zajko

Aveline, Erick.  Temporary Tattoos.  Buffalo: Firefly Books, 2000.  1-55209-609-2.  $19.95. Gr 9-12. The book offers alternative ways of permanent tattoos. These temporary tattoos are clean, safe and fun. A valuable edition, that offers alternative suggestions for permanent tattoos, to a high school collection.                   Margaret Goodlin

Bachel, Beverly K.  What do you really want? How to set a goal and go for it!: a guide for teens.   Minneapolis: Free Spirit, 2001.  1-57542-085-6. 134p. $12.95.  Gr. 9-12.  A self-help book designed to help students organize and take control of their lives while setting realistic goals for their future.  The chapters are divided into specific topics including discovering what you really want, how to become a goal getter, and how to think positively. There are several reproducible pages that students can sit down with and critique their skills while figuring out what they need to do to get their lives on track.  The author has had prior experience with many major corporations and also helps individuals to develop plans to achieve their goals. She spent many hours with teenagers across the United States in order to find out their dreams and goals and then devised some workable solutions that teens can use.  Bachel is the cheerleader for setting goals and then achieving them.  Goal Planning        Peg Kleppinger

Barad, Judith with Ed Robertson. The Ethics of Star Trek. New York : HarperCollins, 2001. 0-06-019530-4.  368p. $23.00  Gr. 10+.Dr. Barad teaches philosophy at Indiana State University (where she teaches a course on the philosophy of Star Trek).  She and co-author Ed Robertson have managed to illustrate virtually every philosophical theory with episodes of Star Trek.  A wonderful, entertaining and creative way to introduce the study of ethics to trekkies and non-believers alike. A good companion to The Physics of Star Trek by Lawrence Krauss.  Pat Naismith

Barghusen, Joan. Cities through Time (series).  Daily Life in Ancient and Modern Cairo. Minneapolis: Runestone Press, 2001. 0-8225-3221-2. $25.26.  Gr. 5-8.  Just as the title implies, this book gives vivid information about life in Cairo during ancient times, including detailed illustrations of pyramids, houses, marriage ceremonies, as well as recent photos of Cairo as it appears today.   This series, which also includes books on Athens, Baghdad, Beijing, Istanbul, Jerusalem, London, Mexico City, Moscow, Paris, Rome and Timbuktu, is sure to capture the interest of students studying world history.           Joanie Marstiller

Bartoletti, Susan Campbell.  Black Potatoes: the Story of the Great Irish Famine, 1845-1850.  Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2001. 0-618-00271-5. 184p. $18.00.  Gr. 6-12. Many books have been written on this topic, but this one is particularly attractive.  A comprehensive history of the potato blight that began the Irish "troubles," this book includes illustrations from 19th century newspapers (2 examples: The Illustrated London News and Pictorial Times). By the author of Growing Up in Coal Country, an ALA Best Book for Young Adults, and based on the memories of those who lived during this nonfiction work is written specifically for young adults.  Black Potatoes can be read for pleasure and will be a helpful resource for students looking for information on the Irish Potato Famine.                      Pat Bender

Batten, Mary. Anthropologist:  Scientist of the People. Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin Company, 2001. 0-618-08368-5. 64p. $16.00 Gr. 3-8   From the Scientists in the Field series, this book outstanding book introduces readers to the field of anthropology through the work of Hurtado and Hill, a husband(Hill) and wife(Hurtado) team studying the Ache, one of the few remaining hunting-gathering societies  in the rain forest of Paraguay. Describes the methods of observation and data collection that anthropologists use in their work.  Outstanding full-color photographs, bibliography, and index.                                 Susan Krenicky

Bellenir, Karen, Ed. Diet Information for Teens: Health Tips about Diet and Nutrition, Including Facts about Nutrients, Dietary Guidelines, Breakfasts, School Lunches, Snacks, Party Food, Weight Control, Eating Disorders and More.  Detroit, MI: Omnigraphics, 2001. 0-7808-0441-4. 399p.  $48.00. Gr. 7. Questions about diet, eating disorders, and how to gain or lose weight are among the issues covered in this collection of information.  A chart of the Food Pyramid, facts on cholesterol and a host of other nutrition-related topics make this a useful reference.  The layout uses charts and highlighted text boxes to bring out key points and makes the book easy to read.  Great for health classes or nutritional units in science classes.                 Candy Blessing

Berry, Halle.  Blue, Rose and Corinne. Chelsea House.  2002. 102p.  0791058026. $30.50. This excellent biography of Halle Berry details her life and her struggles as she climbs the road to success. The strength of this book comes from the historical background of racial issues that are interwoven with Halle's story, demonstrating the strong links between Halle and others who walked this road before her. The richness of this narrative gives to the reader a deep understanding and a true picture of the struggles for racial equality and justice fought by non-whites who have attempted success in the movie and television industry. Halle stands out triumphant, her success a tribute, a victory, and especially, an example of what can be overcome and what can be achieved. There is an index which will be of great help for research purposes, although the book is a great read on its own.  Biography      Nancy Chrismer

Bober, Natalie S.  Countdown to Independence.  New York: Atheneum Books, 2001. 0-689-81329-5.  342p. $26.95. Gr. 7 +. Bober spent four years researching and writing about the events in the years leading up to the Declaration of Independence.  Her meticulous attention to detail presents a balanced view of the both the political climate and the personalities engaged in the struggle on both sides of the Atlantic. By using original sources such as speeches, diaries and letters, Bober brings the men and women who witnessed the Revolution to life.  This is a book rich in information, not only for report writing, but also for anyone seeking an understanding of how America gained her independence.  Rosanne Zajko

Boerst, William J.  Generous Anger : The Story of George Orwell.  Greensboro, NC: Morgan Reynolds, 2001.  1-883846-74-9. 112p.  $20.95.  Gr. 6-9. This short biography of Eric Blair (George Orwell) will introduce students to a writer they have often read in school.  His childhood experiences at boarding school and later at the university are interesting and give the reader insight into his background and how it impacted on his writing.  His experiences in India and later Burma influenced his belief that British imperialism was a destructive force for both the British and the Indians and Burmese.  His personal experiences were often used in his writing and his empathy for the poor was the foundation of much of what he wrote during this time period.  Social activism and political writing were an integral part of his writing and through this biography, one can see how his experiences impacted his own political philosophy.  There is a glossary and bibliography of materials that students will find readable.  Biography                           Peg Kleppinger

Bolin, Frances Schoenmaker, Ed. The Blackbirch Treasury of American Poetry. Woodbridge, Connecticut: Blackbirch Press, Inc 2001.  1-56711-472-5. 288p.  $46.19. Gr. 6-adult. A sampling of American poets shows different facets of the Romantic period of writing as well as more contemporary styles.                                                        Karen Reese, Sandy Run Middle School Sub

Bortz, Fred.  Techno-Matter : The Materials Behind the Marvels.  Brookfield: Twenty-First Century, 2001.  0-7613-1469-5. 96p. $25.90.  Gr. 10-12.  This book is about materials science and engineering and how the marvels of technology evolved and how they work.  There are photos and diagrams that assist in explaining materials that make up the future of technology.  Bortz attempts to explain and define many complex structures, terms, developments, and uses of chemical substances.  Some of the topics he covers include electricity and the function of conductors and semiconductors, silicon and transistors.  There is an explanation of the binary system used in computers, and types of polymers and structures.  The subjects covered here are written with the student in mind.  This is actually the first source that I have read that I actually understand what superconductivity is.  The subjects are complex and will necessitate higher level reading skills.  Students involved in chemistry and/or technology classes will find this a resource that they can use and understand.  Technology                         Peg Kleppinger

            Bolin, Frances Schoenmaker, Ed. The Blackbirch Treasury of American Poetry. Woodbridge, Connecticut: Blackbirch Press, 

            Inc 2001. 1-56711-472-5. 288p.  $46.19. Gr. 6-adult. A sampling of American poets shows different facets of the Romantic period of writing 

            as well as more contemporary styles.                   Karen Reese, Sandy Run Middle School Sub

Bragdon, Kathleen J.  The Columbia Guide to American Indians of the Northeast. New York: Columbia University Press, 2001.  0-231-11452-4. 292p.  $45  Gr. 9-adult. There are four main parts to this guide that will assist students who are delving into Native American cultures.  The first part is an overview of the cultures and histories of the northeastern Indian people and surveys the major debates.  It defines the region and the people who lived there prior to the time of Columbus.  It then reviews the European exploration and the press toward the frontier. It reviews the northeast 1850 to present with a discussion of how the Indians and the government interacted.  Part II is an encyclopedia that alphabetically lists important individuals and places of significant cultural or historic meaning.  Part III is a chronology of the major events in the history of American Indians in the Northeast.  Part IV is for serious researchers and it includes an annotated list of tribes, bibliographies, museums, and sites, published sources, Internet sites and films that can be easily accessed.  The guide will lead students to resources for in-depth research.   Native Americans.                  Peg Kleppinger

Branch, Muriel Miller. Fine Arts and Crafts (African-American Arts series).  Brookfield, CT: 21^st Century, 2001.  0-7613-1868-2.  96p.  $28.90.  Gr. 6-12. The author connects African American arts and crafts to their roots in Africa and then presents chapters on home crafts (pottery, basketry, quilts), visual artists, sculptors, folk artists, photographers, and support for African American arts by colleges and collectors. The illustrations demonstrate the variety of styles within each genre, and the text is informative but not difficult to read. The glossary and bibliography are helpful, but the use of endnotes or footnotes would have been a useful model for students. Other titles in the series cover cooking, dance, and music.                    Eleanor Howe

Brown, Bobbi and Annemarie Iverson.  Teenage Beauty: Everything You Need to Know to Look Pretty, Natural, Sexy & Awesome. Cliff Street Books (HarperCollins), 2001. 0-06-019636-X.  $25.00.    Gr. 8-12. Make-up guru and Today show beauty editor, Brown writes the book she wished she had as a teen.  Her sensitive and natural approach focuses on the ìmakeunder.î  She devotes chapters to African American, Latin American, and Asian American teens.  This upbeat and healthy approach, together with its fabulous pictures of regular girls will fly off your shelves.               Joyce Valenza

Brown, Gene.  Duke Ellington: Jazz Master.  Blackbirch Press, Inc., 2001.  1-56711-505-5. 128p. $29.94.  Gr. 6-9.  This new addition to the Giants of Art and Culture series highlights the life and career of Duke EllingtonóAmerican jazz piano player, composer, and bandleader. Born in 1899 in Washington, D.C., he was named Edward Kennedy Ellington. Edwardís father moved to Washington from North Carolina and worked his way up the social scale from butler to Navy blueprint maker. As a result, the family considered themselves middle class. From the very beginning Edward had high aspirations for himself. He earned the nickname ìDukeî because of it. He announced to his mother one day that he was going to be the greatest. True to his word, he was. With a career spanning more than 50 years, Duke created a style that was, and still is, unique. Duke Ellington provides a well-rounded overview of this multi-talented musician. A glossary and discography are included, along with a bibliography and index. Note: Originally published by Silver Burdett Press as Duke Ellington Genius! The Artist and the Process.    Elizabeth McChesney

Browning, Robert.  Robert Browning.  Sterling Publishing Co., Inc., 2001. 0-8069-5543-0. 48p. $14.95. Gr. 5-8 As part of Sterlingís illustrated Poetry for Young People series, Robert Browning clearly represents the genius of this English poet. A brief explanation precedes each poem, some of which are excerpts from longer works. To clarify meaning, vocabulary appends each entry. An Introduction of biographical information highlights his career and provides insight to his personal life.  Elizabeth McChesney

Buckley, Gail.  American Patriots: The Story of Blacks in the Military from the Revolution to Desert Storm.  Random House, 2001.  0-375-50279-3  $29.95  534 p. Gr. 9+. Buckley (the daughter of Lena Horne) presents a long overdue tribute to servicemen and women of color.  Her stories are based on hundreds of interviews with veterans since World War I and introduce such notable stories as West Pointís  first black graduate,  Buffalo Soldier, Benjamin O. Davis--our first black general and his son, a Tuskegee Airman.  An excellent addition to the high school collection!       Joyce Valenza

Burnstein, Andrew.  Americaís Jubilee: How in 1826 a Generation Remembered Fifty Years of Independence.  New York: Alfred Knopf, 2001.  0-375-41033-3. 361p.  $30.  Gr. 9-adult. Burnstein looks back over the 50 years that followed independence in the United States.  He uses the personal diaries of famous and ordinary citizens, public journals, and popular literature to tell the story of America.  His main focus is on people like Marquis de Lafayette, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, John Quincy Adams, Henry Clay, and Andrew Jackson. The purpose of the book is to look at the progress that the United States made after the Revolutionary War and where it looked like the country was heading in the future.  People were worried about the fact that while the country was becoming a prosperous nation, it wasnít making as much progress of equality and justice for all.  With his use of letters and diaries, one is able to get a glimpse of the personalities that shaped American history.  While not an easy book for students to read, it can provide a wealth of information about the life and times in American history during the beginning of the 19^th century.   History.                 Peg Kleppinger 

Butterfield, Moira.  Going to War in Roman Times. New York: Franklin Watts, 2001. 0-531-16352-0. 32p. $12.00. Gr. 3-6. One of a series of books called Armies of the Past, this book and like others in the series provides a very brief look at the soldiers from that time period.  Includes a look at their weapons, strategies for the battles and in some cases a look at some actual battles, and the living conditions of the soldiers. Will appeal to young students interested in some information on soldiers and warfare throughout history.  Full color pictures, diagrams, maps, glossary, and index.                     Susan Krenicky

Byman, Jeremy.  Carl Sagan: In Contact with the Cosmos.  Greensboro, NC: Morgan Reynolds, 2001.  1-883846-55-2. 112p.  $19.95.  Gr. 8-12. Carl Sagan died in 1996 after a long bout with myelodysplasia, a rare bone marrow disease that can lead to leukemia.  He was best known for popularizing astronomy through a 13-part television series, Cosmos. It was interesting to read about his childhood, his education at the University of Chicago, his years on the faculty of Harvard (where he was denied tenure!) and Cornell, his three marriages and his incredible achievements in the field of astronomy.  The movie, Contact, was based on a book that he wrote.  A chronology of his work, a timeline and a bibliography complete this work.  This short biography is highly readable, and overall, quite fascinating.    Biography                     Peg Kleppinger

Byman, Jeremy.  J.P. Morgan: Banker to a Growing Nation.  Greensboro, NC: Morgan Reynolds, 2001.  1-883846-60-9. $20.95.  Gr. 6-9. J. P. Morgan was one of the most important businessmen during the late 19^th century and early 20^th century.  This short biography is an excellent introduction to his life and his impact during the Industrial Revolution.  The roles he played as a banker for the federal government, financier for railroad construction, and as one of the founders of U.S. Steel are described in a readable format that students will understand.  It was quite interesting to read about his family life and life that he lead outside of the business world. When students study the American Industrial Revolution in history classes, this short biography would be a definite asset.  Biography                   Peg Kleppinger

Capuzzo, Michael.  Close to Shore: A True Story of Terror in an Age of Innocence.  Broadway Books, 2001.  0-7679-0413-3.  317p.  $24.95.  Gr. 9+.  Unaware of a lurking danger, Charles Vasant swam in the ocean with his dog. His goal was to see how far he could go. The dog, a Chesapeake Bay retriever, suddenly seemed to tire and headed for the New Jersey shore. Unable to coax the dog back into the water, Charles headed to the shore himself. He realized too late that he was being stalked. Close to the shore, close to safety, within three and one half feet of water, Charles was attacked. And that was just the beginning. Without the sensationalism that usually surrounds such stories, author Michael Capuzzo has provided a riveting historical account of the first recorded attack by a great white shark. Scientific background helps the reader to understand how and when shark attacks occur. Close to Shore is real life drama at its finest.  Elizabeth McChesney

Cerullo, Mary M.  Sea Soup: Zooplankton.  Gardiner, ME: Tilbury House, 2001.  0-88448-219-7. 39p.  $16.95.  Gr. 3-8. This book has already received rave reviews including being selected as part of the Outstanding Science Trade Books for Children 2002.  Bill Curtsingerís photographs are exceptional and the text is written by a local Maine author, Mary Cerullo.  One is able to explore the wide variety of drifting marine life.  Zooplankton includes the eggs of sea animals, their hatched offspring, other creatures that can often only be seen in a microscope.  Others are much larger and can be seen by the naked eye.  The author has written an easy text that allows students to discover the world of zooplankton.  She describes who eats zooplankton (penguins, whales, and seals are just a few!), which are the fastest (copepod, a cousin of lobsters and crabs), where they live and which ones want to bump into when you are in the ocean. This book will be a welcome addition to libraries seeking information about sea life.   Science.                          Peg Kleppinger  

Chiles, James R.  Inviting Disaster.  HarperBusiness, 2001.  0-06-662081-3.  338p.  $28.00.  Gr. 9+.  As mentioned on the title page, this truly is an inside look at catastrophes and why they happen. Whether you read this book from cover to cover, consult the section entitled ìDisasters, Calamities, and Near Misses Cited in the Book,î or turn directly to the extensive index and scan for topics of interest, Inviting Disaster explains how society has been blessed, or not, with advances in technology. As expected, there are references to Exxon Valdez, the Titanic, and Three Mile Island. Select incidences from 1788 to 2000 are covered.  For researchers or browsers.         Elizabeth McChesney

Colbert, Nancy A.  The Firing on Ft. Sumter: A Splintered Nation Goes to War. Greensboro, NC: Morgan Reynolds, 2001. 1-883946-51-X.  112p. $19.95.  Gr. 6-12. Students will find this small book very beneficial in their study of the Civil War. Ms. Colbert deftly describes the issues surrounding the beginning of the Civil War and gives life to the various people involved in the decisions that were made at the start of the war.  She describes the moral struggles facing both sides of the dispute.  It is particularly interesting to read about President James Buchanan and the dilemmas he faced prior to the inauguration of President Abraham Lincoln.  Jefferson Davis, then a U.S. Senator, warned him of the crisis and what might happen to the Union.  The photographs and maps provide excellent resources for students.  In addition, there is a glossary and a bibliography of resources that are accessible to students.  There are also websites to explore. This readable history of the beginning of the Civil War will help students understand the issues facing our country.  History         Peg Kleppinger

Colbert, Nancy A. The Firing on Ft. Sumter. Greensboro, NC: Morgan Reynolds, 2001. 1-883846-51-X. 112 pp. $20.95. Gr. 6-9.  Part of the four volume series, First Battles, Ms. Colbert helps the reader to understand the events leading up to the firing of Fort Sumter by the Confederacy.  Starting with Kentuckian, Major Anderson being sent to Ft. Moultrie to set up a defendable position but to try ìto avoid collisionî with the peoples of South Carolina.  When Maj. Anderson decided he needed to move his troops to Ft. Sumter because of logistics, the events were set in motion for the beginning of the war.  Poor communication, hidden agendas and secret dealings are all revealed.  Students should find this useful for report writing especially with its bibliography of both books and websites.                            Sandra Krieg

Collier, Christopher, and James Lincoln Collier. The Rise of the Cities: 1820-1920 (Drama of American History series). New York: Marshall Cavendish Benchmark Books, 2001.  0-7614-1051-1.  95 pp.  $29.39.  Gr. 8-12. The goal of this series, written by the authors of My Brother Sam is Dead and other fiction and nonfiction about American history, is to create books that independently address basic themes, concepts, and ideas in American history. While many titles in the series focus on specific periods or events, this is one of the few that concern a topic over the entire period of American history: the first cities, the explosion and growth of cities, technology and the city, city problems, the failure of city government, and reform. Charts and period photographs and drawings supplement the text. While there are bibliographies for teachers and students, the lack of endnotes or footnotes makes this otherwise fine book a less than desirable model for secondary student research.      Eleanor Howe

Complete War of the Worlds: Mars Invasion of Earth from H. G. Wells to Orson Welles.  Eds. Brian Holmsten & Alex Lubertozzi.  Naperville, IL: Sourcebooks Media Fusion, 2001.   1-57071-714-1. 201p.  $39.95.  Gr. 9-adult.  This book will delight students who are interested in H.G. Wellsí story and Orson Wellsí broadcast on Halloween, 1938. The book includes a CD that tells how Orson Wells and the Mercury Theater drove 1.2 million people into a panic over an alleged invasion from Mars.  This book has everything.  The radio play is broadcast on the CD and reprinted in the book.  There are reprints of the various articles in the newspapers that followed the broadcast that describe the panic that thousands felt after the broadcast. In addition, there is an extensive section of the book that discusses H.G. Wells and his writing. The Wellsí story, The War of the Worlds, is also included.  This book and CD will fascinate students because they will have an opportunity to hear the broadcast, read the newspaper accounts and even read the story that caused all the panic back in 1938.  This book would be a great teaching resource for teachers in English and history classes.   Science Fiction.                        Peg Kleppinger   

Coppens, Linda Miles.  What American Women Did, 1789-1920.  MacFarland, 2001. $38.50.  0-7864-0899-5.  Gr. 9+.This year-by-year volume chronicles the activities of women from the beginning of the republic through the passing of the Nineteenth Amendment.  Each section explores activities in the areas of domesticity, work, education, religion, the arts, the law and politics, and joining forces. This book offers a wealth of information and will be especially useful for student projects.       Joyce Valenza

Cruz, Barbara C.  Multiethnic Teens and Cultural Identity: A Hot Issue.  Berkeley Heights: Enslow.  0-7660-1201-8. 64p. $12.95.  Gr. 5-12.  This short work discusses the many issues facing teens of multiethnic descent, including discrimination and the search for ethnic identity. The author traces the growth of the multiethnicity in the United States and points out that the population is expanding and creating questions about ìwhat is race?î and the difficulties that people face when asked the question ìwhat are you?î  Questions that students often face when growing up are discussed and role models like Tiger Woods and Halle Berry speak out.  There are many charts and graphs that show the changes in our society as well as a suggestion for a bill of rights for multiethnic people that expresses the right to not have to justify their existence as a multiracial person and to have the right to freely choose whom they befriend and love.  This is an interesting resource that should have teens talking about the problems students face when people judge them by their multiethnicity.  Ethnic Identity                 Peg Kleppinger

Cultures of the World Series. 2_nd edition. Marshall Cavendish, 2001.  $24.95 ea. 144 p.  Gr. 6-11.  This fully updated and very attractive series (we saw the set on Asia), covers Japan, Indonesia, India, Malaysia, Japan, Singapore, and Mayamar. Color photos enhance the engaging narrative which  examines curricular issues like the role of woman,  religion, the arts, history, and the economy.  Outstanding for school projects!         Joyce Valenza

Current Controversies Series.  Greenhaven Press. $26.20.  Gr. 9+ Cothran, Helen, ed.  Illegal Immigration. 0-7377-0685-6. Teenage Pregnancy and Parenting. 0-7377-0558-2.  Grapes, Bryan J.  ed. Child Abuse. 0-7377-0679-1Critical curricular updates to the high-quality series of primary sources carefully selected to represent all sides of current debates.                               Joyce Valenza

Day, Nancy.  Your Travel Guide to Ancient Egypt. Minneapolis: Runestone, 2001. 0-8225-3075-9. 96p.  $26.60.  Gr. 4-9.  This is another title in the series done by Runeston Press that looks at life in an historical period through the use of humor.  This particular volume introduces students to life in Ancient Egypt.  Critics have expressed skepticism on the validity of this approach, yet I suspect students will enjoy looking at this guide and they will want to explore Ancient Egypt further in their readings and class work.  The work describes clothing, accommodations, foods, local customs, transportation, and then introduces some of the important historical figures in Ancient Egypt.  Despite the fact that it does skip around in the time periods, there are tidbits of information that students will find interesting.  There is a section that describes selecting a name that students will enjoy.  They will also be intrigued by the description of how to build a pyramid as well as descriptions of home life in the ancient world.  There are short biographical sketches of Ramses II, Hatshepsut, Ahhotep and Akhenaton. History.   Peg Kleppinger

Day, Nancy.  Your Travel Guide to Civil War America.  Minneapolis: Runestone,  2001.  0-8225-3078-3. 96p.  $26.60.  Gr. 4-9.  Students will find this flippant guide to the Civil War entertaining and they will likely learn more about the Civil War than they expect.  The author describes clothing, accommodations, food, local customs, transportation, and a few people who are important to the era are also described in the ìWhoís Whoî section of the travel guide.  The clever introduction of vocabulary from the Civil War will undoubtedly help students to understand their text readings when they do additional reading for their classes.  Helpful hints are given by the tour guide in little graphics to the side of the text and they are often rather humorous.  There is an interesting look at salaries of the soldiers, common problems they faced each day, as well as a short history of some of the most important battles.  The author includes information about family life, school and how the average family survived the war in both the North and South.  In addition, a readable bibliography, Internet sites and a glossary for students are included.  History.                                   Peg Kleppinger  also Eleanor Howe

Diouf, Sylviane A. Growing Up in Slavery. Brookfield, Ct.: Millbrook Press, 2001. 0-7613-1763-5. 96p. $19.95. Gr.7+. Focusing solely on the children of slavery, Diouf presents a grim, brutally honest assessment of the effect of slavery on children, both those born into the institution and those kidnapped and sold into slavery. The living conditions, including dress, chores and leisure activities, and relationships between black and white children, are documented from slave narratives. The facts are so compelling that students reading this information can not help but put themselves in the place of the enslaved children. Pair with Julius Lesterís To Be a Slave.  Includes an index, source notes and bibliography, and a selection of books, videos and web sites for further information.                              Rosanne Zajko

DiSpezio, Michael. Optical Illusion. NY: Sterling Publishing, 2001. 0-8069-6627-0. 80p. $17.95. Gr. 3-adult. Have you ever wondered how those optical illusions work?  Michael DiSpezio has provided insight into a multitude of different optical illusions. This candy for the brain will have your students trying to make their own optical illusions by following directions to make mosaic blocks, the 2D target and lots of eye tricking line drawings. An index is included.            Sandra Krieg

Duey, Kathleen.  Amelia Carrett:  Bayou Grand Coeur. Louisiana, 1863.  American  Diaries.  New York:  Aladdin, 1999. 0-689-82402-5 (pbk.). 137p.   $3.99.  Gr. 4-7. Here is another addition to the popular historical fiction series, American Diaries.  Each story  is about a different girl living in a different time period of Americanís past, who reveal their life secrets through the pages of their diaries.  Each encounters a life altering challenge.  In this story, an orphan, Amelina is used to being left all by herself while her Uncle Pierre is off trapping or fishing. And it's a Cajun custom to welcome strangers into your home. But she soon realizes that the two men who've come to her tiny wooden house are dangerous. It will take all her knowledge of the dark swamp--and all her courage--to save herself and her uncle.   More mature than some of the others in the series. Candy Blessing

Ellis, Rex. M. With a Banjo on My Knee: A Musical Journey from Slavery to Freedom. New York: Franklin Watts, 2001.  0-531-11747-2.  160p.  $26.00.  Gr. 7-12. Ellis, an African American curator at the Smithsonian Institution, chronicles the importance of the banjo in the African American tradition and the interaction between this music and black culture. The informally written but informative text includes the periods before and after 1900 and is supplemented by period photographs and drawings, biographical sketches, an index, glossary, discography, and bibliographies including web sites. The authorís research is demonstrated by the use of endnotes which provide a valuable model for secondary students.     Eleanor Howe

Engelbert, Phillis. Dangerous Planet. Detroit, MI: UXL, 2001. 0-7876-2848-4. 446p. $135.00. Gr. 5-9. This three-volume set explores sixteen (16) natural disasters.  Each chapter includes words to know, how the disaster occurs, and consequences of the disaster. Within the topic one or two specific disasters are profiled.  Some of the natural disasters covered in depth are the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, Black Sunday, the dust storm of April 1935, and the 1925 tornado in Murphysburg, Illinios.  Each chapter ends with a list of books, periodicals and websites for further information.  A welcome addition to all middle school and junior high libraries.       Sandra Krieg

Farlow, James.   Bringing Dinosaur Bones to Life: How Do We Know What Dinosaurs Were Like? New York: Franklin Watts, 2001.  0-531-11403-1. $17.96. 63p. Gr. 5-8. With an excellent explanation of the scientific method, Farlow explains how paleontologists hypothesize and know what dinosaurs actually looked like and how they behaved. Pertinent illustrations and photographs of specimen fossils add to the clear explanations.  Glossary, bibliography, list of helpful web sites, and index round out this interesting book.             Jeannie Bellavance

Flannery, Sarah with David Flannery. In Code: A Mathematical Journey.  New York:

Workman Publishing. 2001. 0-7611-2384-9. 268p. $24.95. Gr.

This book tells the story of Sarah Flannery, a sixteen-year-old whose excitement about mathematics led her to the study of cryptography.  In developing a new algorithm for encoding information, Sarah Flannery became Irelandís Young Scientist of the Year 1999.  In Code presents the early influences and challenges that Sarah Faced, as well as the elementary number theory and mathematics she used to develop the algorithm that won her much attention.  Sarah Flanneryís passion and enthusiasm shines through in this autobiography and is an inspiration to the mathematics student.  Biography, mathematics.  Colleen Doyle, Math Teacher, Springfield Twp High School

Fodor_s Compass American Guides (series). $21.00 ea.   320 (or so) p. Grades 6-8. This appealing series of travel books also covers history, landscape, and culture and will be very useful for middle school projects.  Each is written by a resident and contains beautiful photographs, maps, and informative sidebars.                          Joyce Valenza

Foerstel, Herbert N.  From Watergate to Monicagate: Ten Controversies in Modern Journalism and Media. Greenwood, 2001.  0-313-31163-3.  $49.95.   279p. Gr. 9+.  The significant controversies in modern journalism include monopolistic control, the paparazzi, anonymous sources, and plagiarism.  This volume will be extremely valuable to high school students engaged in controversial issue research.                      Joyce Valenza

Ford, Carin T.  Helen Keller: Lighting the Way for the Blind and Deaf.  Berkeley Heights, NJ: Enslow, 2001.  0-7660-1530-0. 112p. $20.95. Gr. 6-12. A well written account of Helen Keller's life from birth till death at the age of 88.  Many quotes and excerpts from letters compliment the story.  Photos of Keller at different ages accompany the text.  Includes a chronology of Keller's life and accomplishments, chapter notes, further reading, Internet addresses and an index.    Michelle Stone

Former Soviet Republics Series.  Lucent, 2001. Grade 7-12. Corona, Laurel.  The Russian Federation.  1-56006-675-X. 112p. Streissguth, Thomas.  The Transcaussus.  1-56006-736-5. 111p. Carliedge, Cherese and Charles Clark.  The Central Asian States.  1-56006-735-7.  128p. This approachable series offers much needed background material on the new nations of the former Soviet Union.  A wise purchase for any high school library to support global studies!      Joyce Valenza

Franco, Betsy, ed.  Photographs by Nina Nickles.  Things I Have to Tell You: Poems and Writing by Teenage Girls.  Candlewick, 2001.  0-7636-0905-6  $15.99  63p.  Gr. 9+. Following on the heels of You Hear Me: Poems and Writing for Teenage Boys, this slim volume of poems, stories and essays, covers the range of experiences_the angst and confusion and joy of being a teenage girl.  Girls will love it!            Joyce Valenza

Fraser, Antonia. Marie Antoinette: The Journey. New York: Doubleday, 2001.  0-385-48948-X.  512p.  $35.  Gr. 10-adult.  Fraser, recipient of several literary and historical awards, chronicles Marie Antoinetteís physical, emotional, and mental journeys from Vienna as a teenage princess to Versailles as a mother and queen, from a young unsophisticated barely literate girl who wants to please others to a mature woman who speaks intelligently and maturely in her own defense at the mock trial of 1797.  In between lie her adaptations to marriage and the more formal French court with its social protocols and political intrigues. It is a riveting and thought-provoking portrait that validates Laskyís briefer fictionalized treatment in the Royal Diaries series. This well researched biography, built on an abundance of primary sources such as diaries and letters, provides an objective, intimate, and ultimately sympathetic view of Antoinette that reads like a novel with a keen sense of persons, places, and times. Biography Eleanor Howe

Frey, Marc and Todd Davis.  The New Big Book of U.S. Presidents.  Philadelphia: Courage Books, 2001. 0-7624-0849-9. $9.98.   Gr. 5-8.  This interesting, well-written book gives the reader an inside look at the personal, as well as political, biography of each of our Presidents.   With a timeline for each presidential era and added historical tidbits, even reluctant readers will be attracted to this book.                 Joanie Marstiller

Fridell, Ron.  Terrorism: Political Violence and Home and Abroad. (Issues in Focus Series).  Berkeley Heights: Enslow, 2001.  0-7660-1671-4. 112p. $20.95. This is a very timely addition to this series. The author offers a basic introduction to the world of terrorism.  The chapters are divided into explanations of what terrorism is, how terrorism has expanded throughout the world and now to the United States.  There is a discussion of how terrorists operate and how countries are attempting to search for terrorists prior to their destructive acts. It briefly touches on some of the terrorist trials that have been held in the past ten years.  The incidents described are current and include the terrorist bombings of the American embassies in Africa, the gassing in the Tokyo subway system and the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.  A bibliography of books, magazines and Internet resources is provided.  It provides a basic introduction into the world of terrorism and students will likely find it a place to begin research on the various acts of terrorism.  Terrorism             Peg Kleppinger

Friedlander, Mark P., Jr.  & Terry M. Phillips.  When Objects Talk: Solving a Crime with Science.  Minneapolis: Lerner, 2001.  0-8225-0649-1. 120p. $26.60.  Gr. 5-10. As TV watchers, many are already acquainted with the technology that is used to solve crimes, so this book can be a fascinating trip into the world of crime solving.  The authors use a fictional murder case to showcase how the police go about solving a crime.  It describes the use of fingerprints, facial reconstruction, and other scientific methods used by detectives to solve crimes.  There are some color photographs included to show how techniques like facial reconstruction are done.  There is an extensive glossary, web sites, and a list of further readings also included. Since it is written at a student accessible level, it is interesting to read about all the various methods used to solve a murder case.  The DNA testing section is fascinating to read after having heard so much about it in the news.   Forensics.    Peg Kleppinger  

Fudzie, Vince and Andre N. Hayes.  Your Brain Is a Muscle Too.  Amistad, 2001.  0-06-019854-0.  212p. $24.00.  Gr. 9+.  Originally published as The Sport of Learning in 1995, Your BrainÖ has been updated and revised. Although the main focus is on male, African-American athletes, the issues discussed are applicable to any student athlete desiring academic success. The text progresses from high school aspirations through professional levels of achievement. Because the chapters are self-contained, they can be read in any sequence. Issues regarding language (Kingís English vs. non-standard English), substance use/abuse (drugs, alcohol, steroids), and interpersonal relationships (date rape, sexually transmitted diseases) are presented in a realistic, though sometimes graphic, manner. Speaking from firsthand experience, the authors have provided a resource that is candid, thought provoking, and recommended for student athletes with professional goals in mind.                 Elizabeth McChesney

Furbee, Mary R.  Shawnee Captive: The Story of Mary Draper Ingles.  Greensboro, NC: Morgan Reynolds, 2001.  1-883846-69-2. 112p.  $20.95. Gr. 5-9. Mary Draper Inglesí story will capture the interest of young readers.  As a young, pregnant woman with two small children, she is captured by the Shawnee and taken from her home in the Shenandoah Valley.  Mary and her young children are taken hundreds of miles from home but survive the ordeal.  There are graphic descriptions of scalping and running the gauntlet when the group finally stops at a settlement.  Her two young sons were taken away and likely adopted by others in the group. In a daring escape, Mary Draper leaves her young daughter and walked over 800 miles to return home.  This biography will fascinate young readers.  It is based on the memoirs of one of her sons and is very readable for students.   Biography                   Peg Kleppinger 

Furbee, Mary R.  Shawnee Captive: The Story of Mary Draper Ingles.  Greensboro: Morgan Reynolds, 2001.  1-883846-69-2. $17.95.112p. Gr. 6-8.  A true story of a pioneer girl who survives being captured by the Shawnee Indians.  The book describes her life during Colonial times, her escape from her captors, and her struggle to return to her husband and home.                                            Karen Reese, Sandy Run Middle School Sub

Ganeri, Anita. Buddhism. New York: McGraw-Hill Childrenís Publishing, 2001. 0-87226-685-0. 46p.$16.95. Gr. 3-8. This short book tries to cover everything from the definition of Buddhism to the splits within the religion.  It traces the beginnings of the religion in India to China, Japan and into the West.  Buddhism will be most useful for the many illustrations and photographs gracing its pages.                          Sandra Krieg

George, Charles.  Civil Rights: The Struggle for Black Equality.  Words that Changed the World Series.  Lucent, 2001.  1-56006-799-3. $27.45  128p. Gr. 7+. This new Lucent series ìexamines how the worldís most important documents and speeches have influenced beliefs, laws, and public opinion.î  The historical significance of the five major documents included in the appendix is discussed in five thorough chapters.  Very useful for projects, especially with the current focus on primary sources.  Also in the series: Nuremberg Laws, Declaration of Independence, Origin of the Species, and the U.S. Constitution.  Joyce Valenza

Glassman, Bruce S.  John Paul Getty: Billionaire Oilman.  Blackbirch Press, Inc., 2001. 1-56711-513-6.  112p.  $29.94.  Gr. 6-9.  At the age of eleven John Paul Getty bought 100 shares in the Minnehoma Oil Company. It was his first investment, an investment in his fatherís business. By the time Getty was 24 years of age, before the end of his second year as partner in his fatherís business, he was worth more than a million dollars. Instead of reinvesting his wealth, as was expected, Getty announced his retirement and went to California. Soon after his arrival in California Getty was named in a questionable paternity suit. Shamed, suddenly aware of the social dangers that his wealth had brought with it, Getty returned to the Oklahoma oil fields and his fatherís business. Driven, shrewd, and not to be deterred, J. Paul Getty built a billion dollar empire. Part of the Giants of American Industry series, this biography is a worthy addition for most collections. (Note: Others included in the series are Elizabeth Arden: Beauty Empire Builder; William Randolph Hearst: Modern Media Tycoon; John D. Rockefeller: Richest Man Ever.) Elizabeth McChesney

Gottfried, Ted.  Teen Fathers Today.  Connecticut:Twenty-First  Century Books, 2001.  0-7613-1901-8.  128p.  $23.90.  Gr. 8-12. A realistic approach to the problems facing teen dads, from money to familiesí reactions to the day-to-day care of an infant, is presented.  Using interviews with actual teen fathers introduce the problems they are facing.  Especially helpful is the bibliography of further reading and websites.  Donna Darmofal

Gravelle, Karen. 5 Ways to Know About You. New York : Walker, 2001.  0-8027-8749-5. 166p.  $16.95.  Gr. 5-10. A fun and informative look at your personality through the use of astrology, Chinese horoscopes, numerology, palm reading and handwriting analysis.  Not a great scholarly work, but lots of interesting stuff for teens to explore.           Pat Naismith

Great Explorations series.  Marshall Cavendish, 2001/02  $19.95 each 80 (or so) p.  Gr. 6-10. Written by noted non-fiction authors Milton Meltzer, Harold Faber, and Patricia Calvert, these lavishly illustrated slim titles cover the explorations of Magellan, LaSalle, Daniel Boone, Lewis and Clark, Cook, and Peary.                                  Joyce Valenza

Greenberg, Jan and Sandra Jordan. Frank O. Gehry: Outside In. New York: Dorling Kindersley, 2001.  0-7894-2677-3.  47p.  $19.95 . Gr. 6-adult. The brief book provides beautifully illustrated coverage of the innovative architectural and furniture designs of Canadian-born architect, Frank O. Gehry. The informative but easy-to-read text covers his life, remodeling his own house in Los Angeles, work with clients, creative art from leftover materials, furniture design, computer modeling, and his chef-díoeuvre, the Guggenheim Museum in Bilboa, Spain. Following the text are a glossary, bibliography, and lists of the locations of completed buildings and buildings in progress.                                                                                              Eleanor Howe

Greenberg, Lorna and Margot F. Horwitz. Digging Into the Past: Pioneers of Archeology. Danbury, Connecticut: Franklin Watts, 2001. 0-531-11857-6. 127p. $25.00. Gr. 7-12. Part of the Lives in Science series, this volume presents a brief introductory history to the field of archeology, and gives biographical snapshots of 8 famous archeologists and their famous discoveries. Featuring archeologists and their finds from around the world, this volume includes well-written chapters on Giovanni Belzoni and the Pyramid of Khafre, Howard Carter and Lord Carnarvon and the Tomb of King Tut, Hiram Bingham and Macchu Picchu, Mortimer Wheeler and the Indus Valley, Gertrude Bell and Kathleen Kenyon in the Middle East, and Kent Weeks and the sons of Ramesses II burial sites. This volume would be a good starting point for students researching the archeologists or their sites. Archeology               Nancy Chrismer

Gregson, Susan R.  Heart Disease (Perspectives on Disease and Illness). Mankato, MN: Capstone, 2001.  0-7368-0749-7. 64p.  $23.93. Gr. 5-9. As Ms. Gregson points out, heart disease is the number one killer of Americans and the education of young people is essential to combat this disease.  In simply written text, the author explains heart disease, how the heart works, types of heart disease and how doctors diagnose and treat heart disease.  An important chapter that is included describes a heart-healthy lifestyle that students should become familiar with now in order to avoid problems in the future.  For students doing health reports there is a handy section of useful addresses and Internet sites to help them locate additional resources.   Health.                   Peg Kleppinger

Growing Up Poor :  A Literary Anthology.  Edited by Robert Coles, Randy Testa, and Michael Coles.  New York: New Press, 2001.  1-56584-623-0  279 p. $23.95. Gr. 8-adult.  This is wonderful collection of stories, poems, and essays about growing up poor.  The stories range from a young girlís story of growing up in New York slums at the beginning of the 20^th century, to a southern familyís struggles during the Depression, to contemporary stories of rural and urban poverty. The collection includes stories and poems by Langston Hughes,  Zora Neale Hurston, Ralph Ellison, Dorothy Allison, Sandra Cisneros, Sherman Alexie, William Carlos Williams, and Gary Soto are just a few of the many included in this book. There are also selections by young people who are currently living in poverty in New York or even detention centers in California.   Each selection is preceded by a short introduction to the author that provides background material. This book would be an excellent addition to use with American history and literature courses.  It could also serve as an introduction to class discussions and debate about the issues of poverty in the United States. It is very readable and an excellent resource for students.  Poverty/American Literature     Peg Kleppinger

Gunderson, Mary. American Indian Cooking before 1500. Mankato, MN: Blue Earth Books, 2001. 0-7368-0605-9. 32p. $22.60. Gr. 4-7. Ms. Gunderson, a food historian, uses this title in the series Exploring History through Simple Recipes to tell how a tribe developed diets based on the food native to their region. She also explains how an archeological dig provides information about American Indians during this time period. Sample recipes from the major geographic areas are shared. The Haida of the Northwest would have eaten grilled salmon; the Chumash of California, acorn cakes; Hopi farmers of the Southwest, squash stew, etc. The recipes are easy to read and follow. Further readings, places to write and visit and Internet sites are included. This is a helpful addition for the many Native American projects assigned.          Sandra Krieg

Halberstam, David.  War in a Time of Peace.  Scribner, 2001.  0-7432-0212-0.  543p.  $28.00.  Gr. 10+.  Noted journalist and historian David Halberstam won the Pulitzer Prize in 1964 for his insights on the Vietnamese Conflict. Seventeen books and twelve national bestsellers later, Halberstam again takes on Washington politics and foreign policy in post-Cold War America, contrasts the Clinton, Bush, and Reagan administrations, and challenges the advisability of certain military action in the nineties. Guaranteed to provoke serious discussion, War in a Time of Peace will best serve students involved in term paper research, larger collections, or where there is a need.                Elizabeth McChesney

Hampton, Wilborn. Meltdown: A Race Against Nuclear Disaster at Three Mile Island. Cambridge, MA; Candlewick Press, 2001. 0-7636-0715-0. $19.99. 104p. Gr. 7-12. This first-hand account of the nuclear accident at Three-Mile Island was written by a reporter, Wilborn Hampton, who was assigned to cover this incident for his news agency, United Press International. This fascinating narrative is set in historical perspective, beginning with an explanation of how nuclear energy works, how the first nuclear bomb was used, and much more. His day-by-day account of the Three-Mile Island accident brings to the reader a very real idea of the danger inherent in this form of energy production. He concludes his book with details of the frightening nuclear disaster at Chernobyl and also a later incident in Japan. He leaves the reader pondering a very real puzzle: how to get the energy we need for our world from a safe, inexpensive source. This truly is a riddle for today's teen scientists to unravel as they move into their adult careers. Science                                               Nancy Chrismer

Handel, Sherry S. Blue Jean: What Young Women Are Thinking, Saying, and Doing. New York: Blue Jean Press, 2001. 0-9706609-1-X. 246p. $14.95. Gr. 9-12. This set of writings by girls and young women is a very unique book that should be in every library collection. The editor of this collection, Sherry Handel, started a print magazine and an on-line magazine as alternatives to the health and glamour focus of most all others, and both are very welcome voices in today's world. The subjects about which these girls and young women write are refreshing: issues that affect them in our world today such as the health of children in third world countries, the rights of blacks, females, and Native Americans, human rights, teen social issues such as suicide, and much more. These girls and young women are not writing about hair, makeup, skin care, and how to stay thin; their voices speak to important life issues in a way that is empowering to girls everywhere. Although the print magazine, blue jean magazine, was out of print briefly, it is now being re-launched in 2002. The on-line 'zine, www.bluejeanonline.com, is the only web site written and produced by young women from around the world. Both are devoted to empowering young women so that they can positively affect their lives and the lives of others. Self-Help/Inspirational/Teen   Nancy Chrismer

Hare, Tony.  Animal Habitats: Discovering How Animals Live in the Wild.  Facts on File Natural Science Library.  New York: Facts on File, 2001.  0-8160-4593-3.  189p. $40.00.  Gr 6-12. Animal Habitats are described in this gorgeously illustrated book as the area where animals are born, live, eat, sleep and die.  A cross-section of mammals from the animal kingdom was selected for this book for their suitability or adaptability to their environment.                 Pat Bender

Hare, Tony.  Animal Life Cycles: Growing Up in the Wild.  Facts on File Natural Science Library. New York: Facts on File, 2001.  0-8160-4595-X.  157p. $40.00.  Gr. 6-12.  This book describes the ways in which mammals live in the wild, how they learn to survive, separate from their mothers and mate.  Breeding season, litter size, and average life expectancy of mammal is described and beautifully illustrated.                  Pat Bender

Hart, Christopher. Manga Mania: How to Draw Japanese Comics. New York:Watson-Guptill Publications, 2001. 0-8230-3035-0. 144p. $19.95.  Gr. 7-12.  This is an excellent and profusely illustrated text that highlights both the visual and the philosophical differences between the typical American super hero and Japanese comic art, better known as "MANGA." Manga, derived from Japanese anima, or animation art, is and has been a universal artistic phenomenon here in America since the 1970's. American artists have admired and copied its graphic techniques and style, and this text offers a step-by-step way of becoming more proficient. There is a nice balance between illustrations and the written word.   Art           Nancy Chrismer

Hatt, Christine.  Documenting History Series - World War I: 1914-18 and World War II: 1939-45. New York: Franklin Watts, 2001.  0-531-14611-1 and 0-531-14612-X.   $22.00 Gr. 6-11. Each of these books, from the Documenting History Series, is an outstanding addition to any historical reference section.  Along with succinct explanations of major events, the author also adds eye-catching sidelights such as personal diaries and many photos of people and places representing this time period.  Joanie Marstiller

Heller, Norma.  Information Literacy and Technology Research Projects: Grades 6-9.  Englewood, CO: Libraries Unlimited, 2001. 1-56308-752-9. 205p.   $32.00.  Gr. 6-9. This book presents ideas for teachers who want to improve studentsí literacy skills and help them become self-directed learners.  In creating collaborative, problem-solving projects, which can integrate many curriculum areas, this former school librarian not only provides activity guides, she also includes procedures and assessments. If youíre looking for ways to help students learn to think critically about the vast amounts of information available to them over the Internet, youíll find this book a valuable addition to your collection.  Propaganda, America at the Turn of the Century, Art and the Environment, and I Love a Mystery are a sampling of the units Heller provides.         Candy Blessing

Henderson, Harry.  Library in a Book: Terrorism. Facts on File.  2001 0-8160-4259-4. Hip Hop Divas (Vibe).  Three Rivers Press, 2001.  $17.95. 0-609-80836-2.  Gr. 10+. This book, produced by Vibe magazine, covers such superstars as Lauryn Hill, Mary J. Blige, and TLC, has attracted a great deal of student interest. The essays and interviews are honest and gritty as hiphop itself, but the language will not fly for every library.                   Joyce Valenza

Henderson, Harry.  Terrorism. Library in a Book. New York: Facts on File, 2001.  0-8160-4259-4.  300p. $45.00. Gr. 7-12.  Part of the Library in a Book series, Terrorism is a one-volume up-to-date reference work giving an introduction, a survey of international terrorism, laws and court cases, a chronology, biographical listings, an index and an annotated bibliography. A great resource for debates.                  Pat Bender

Hestler, Anna.  Wales (Cultures of the World Series).  New York: Marshall Cavendish, 2001.  0-7614-1195-X. 128p.  $35.64.  Gr. 4-9.  This is another addition to the excellent series, Cultures of the World. Ms. Hestler introduces students to the lively culture found in Wales.   All aspects of life in Wales are introduced to students in a highly informative and readable format.  The geography section contains maps and scenic pictures that accompany the text.  As the reader travels through various sections of Wales, it is easy to be captivated by the sheer beauty of the county.  Chapters on history, government, economy, lifestyles, religion, language, the arts, leisure activities, festivals and foods complete an excellent introduction to the culture of Wales.  Schools where a global studies class is taught will find this series invaluable.  Our students in Global Studies rave about the completeness of the book and the ease in which they can read about the cultures of countries they study.  I would highly recommend this series.    Peg Kleppinger

Hinds, Kathryn. The City.  New York: Marshall Cavendish/Benchmark Books, 2001. 0-7614-1005-8. 80p. $19.95 Gr. 5-8. Part of the Life in the Middle Ages series, this book gives a good overview of the importance and structure of cities.  Hinds explains the influences that politics, geography had on the development of cities during this time.  Topics covered are government, business, family life, festivals, religion and, of course diseases and other disasters.  She is careful to explain regional differences and progress made from the early part of the period to the later.  This book will serve as a starting off place for those who wish to know more.  To that effect there are bibliographies for further reading and web sites listed as well as the bibliography of sources used.  Other books in the series are The Countryside, The Church, and The Castle.             Jeannie Bellavance

Hipperson, Carol Edgemon (comp.). The Belly Gunner. Connecticut:Twenty-First Century Books, 2001. 0-7613-1873-9. 160p. $27.90. Gr. 6-9.  The author details a great interview with Private Dale Aldrich who during World War II served as a ìbelly gunner.î  His plane was shot down and he spent more than a year in the Nazi prisoner of war camp, Stalag 17.  Students will find this book fascinating with its great timelines of the war, pictures of the people, events and illustrations of the B17. Great addition to any WWII collection. Donna Darmofal

History of Sports Series. Lucent, 2001. $27.45 Gr. 7+. Uschan, Michael V.  Golf. 1-56006-744-6. Stewart, Gail B. Soccer.  1-56006-712-8. Also includes baseball, basketball, football, and hockey. These books work for all those history assignments where the students select sports!  Each book in the series covers the origins of the sport, the evolution of its rules, strategies and philosophy, and the likely future for the sport.   Notables and memorable moments are featured in attractive sidebars.  The books also include statistics, glossaries, chronologies, and annotated bibliographies.                Joyce Valenza

Hogan, Linda.  The Woman Who Watches Over the World: A Native Memoir.  New York: Norton, 2001.  0-393-05018-1. $24.95. Gr. 9-adult.  Linda Hogan is a Chicksaw poet, novelist, essayist and author of ten books.  She has received many awards for her work including being a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize and a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award.  This work is a memoir of her childhood and the difficulties she has faced in life as an American Indian.  She blends her personal history with stories of important Indian figures.  Her story is terribly sad and yet she is able to celebrate her culture and its role in her life.  She suffers from a neuromuscular disease and a serious head injury; she overcame alcoholism and even adopted children who then faced monumental problems.             Peg Kleppinger

Holland, Barbara.  They Went Whistling: Women Wayfarers, Warriors, Runaways, and Renegades.  New York:  Pantheon,  2001.  0-375-42055-X. 280p. $23.  Gr. 9-12.  Ms. Hollandís book is an irreverent look at the role of women in history who decided to live outside of the general expectations for women of the age. Cleopatra, Joan of Arc, Bonnie Parker, Amelia Earhart, George Sand, Isadora Duncan, Mata Hari, Belle Starr are some of the more famous women discussed in this book, but there are dozens of equally fascinating stories told here.  It would be a great book to use in class to show that women have played many different roles throughout history. The chapters are divided into Warriors, Menswear, Outlaws, Exiles, Wayfarers, Renegades, Grandstanders, Seekers and Radicals.  Ms. Holland capably showcases women deciding to do what they want to despite societal expectations.   Biography                             Peg Kleppinger

Hoose, Phillip.  We Were There, Too! New York: Melanie Kroupa Books, 2001. 0-37-38252-2. 264p.  $26.00.  Gr. 6-12. From the discovery of America to the story of a young environmentalist from the 90's, this book will quickly become an indispensable source of primary information. Major events in our history are succinctly explained, followed by first person accounts of events by people who lived through the various time periods.  These accounts are written in a realistic tone, quickly grasping the attention of the reader.  Even reluctant readers who are researching historical events will enjoy the personalized stories in the many entries of this well documented resource.                  Joanie Marstiller

Howes, Kelly King. Harlem Renaissance. Detroit:UXL Gale, 2001. 0-7876-4836-1. 293p. $52. Gr. 7-12.  This is another superb book for student research.  In the early twentieth century Harlem was the center of African American culture and the Harlem Renaissance time period is usually identified at the period between the end of World War I and the beginning of the Great Depression.  The work is divided into two sections: Almanac and Biographies.  The Almanac has seven chapters which describe the time period and the arts which flourished.  The fiction, poetry, performing arts, visual arts and music of Harlem are showcased in this section.  The Biographies section include Countee Cullen, W.E.B.Du Bois, Duke Ellington, Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, Nella Larsen, Claude McKay, Bessie Smith, Jean Toomer, Ethel Waters are just a few of the people introduced. An excellent bibliography includes books, organizations and websites. This would be an excellent addition to libraries where students research the Harlem Renaissance. It is very readable and students will find it accessible.    History            Peg Kleppinger.  

Hoyt-Goldsmith, Diane. Celebrating Ramadan. New York: Holiday House, 2001. 0-8234-1581-3. 32p. $16.95.  Gr. 3-6. Celebrating Ramadan, while written with elementary students in mind, has a place in Middle School libraries.  Ms. Hoyt-Goldsmith presents a comprehensive introduction to Ramadan as well as the Islam religion.  The five pillars of Islam and the five times of daily prayers are illustrated by following Ibraheem and his family as they prepare for and celebrate Ramadan.  This book will serve to enlighten your students on a subject that is much in todayís news.            Sandra Krieg

Hughes, Meredith Sayles.  Green Power: Leaf and Flower Vegetables. (Plants We Eat Series) Minneapolis: Lerner, 2001.  0-8225-2839-8. 80p. $26.60.  Gr. 6-12.  Another entertaining discussion of vegetables that even non-vegetable eaters will learn important nutritional lessons.  There are six vegetables introduced and described: cabbage, broccoli, artichokes, spinach, Belgian endive, and lettuce.  The introduction discusses how plants make food, the life cycles of each of the six plants described in this book as well an informative discussion about the domestication of plants.  Like others in this series, each plant is described and the benefits they provide us are included in separate chapters.  There are recipes to help convince even the most finicky eater that these plants are green power.            Peg Kleppinger.

Hughes, Meredith Sayles.  Hard to Crack: Nut Trees (Plants We Eat Series) Minneapolis:  Lerner, 2001. 0-8225-2838-X.  87p. $26.60.  Gr. 6-12. One of the more entertaining non-fiction books of this year, Hard to Crack: Nut Trees looks at six different nuts and their trees.  Pecans, walnuts, almonds, pistachios, cashews and macadamias are introduced and described.  The tree is introduced with its botanical family and then there is a brief history of the nutís origin as something to eat.  As an example, the pecanís history in the United States includes George Washington and Thomas Jefferson planting the tree on their farms.  Production of each nut is also discussed.  A recipe using each nut is included.  I thought this book was quite interesting and entertaining and students would find it useful in science classes as well as in nutritional and cooking classes.          Peg Kleppinger

Irwin, William, ed.  The Simpsons and Philosophy:  The Díoh! Of Homer.  New York: Open Court Publishing Company, 2001.  081269433.  303p. $17.95.  Gr. 9+ This collection of essays by current philosophy professors provides a cursory and entertaining exploration of both philosophy and The Simpsons.  Is Bart Simpson Nietzscheís counterpart?  Does little Lisa Simpson embody the virtuous qualities the Aristotle extolled?  These essays intertwine philosophy and pop culture with ease and they also explore relevant literary elements such as parable, parody, and allusion.            Ken Rodoff, Social Studies Teacher, Springfield Twp. High School

Isaacson, Philip A.  Round Buildings, Square Buildings, and Buildings that Wiggle Like a Fish.  New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1988.  0-394-89382-4. 121p. $19.95.  Gr. 3-8.  This book is simply worded with short sentences and lots of white space on the page.  The numbers included in the text are not footnotes, but references to the numbered pictures in the text. (This is a little confusing at first, until the reader realizes the reason for the numbers.  Another confusing aspect of the book is that sometimes the text about a structure does not begin or remain on the page where the structure is pictured.)  The book includes bridges, aqueducts, and other structures, not limiting itself to buildings intended for people.  The author talks about the harmony, personality, and poetry of structures.  He explores the effect that building materials have on the personality of a building.  The book is about the art of buildings, rather than the construction of buildings.  It is about the design of the structures and the effect the structure has on the person viewing it.  This book would be a good addition to the collection for art classes that have this topic as part of the curriculum. Art Curriculum      Constance Roupp

Jermyn, Leslie.  Belize (Cultures of the World Series).  New York: Marshall Cavendish, 2001.  0-7614-1190-9. 128p.  $35.64.  Gr. 4-9. This is an excellent addition to school libraries where a global studies class is taught.  Belize is a small nation, formerly known as British Honduras, in Central America.  While not far from the United States, many students canít recall ever hearing the countryís name.  Leslie Jermyn has created an excellent introduction to the country of Belize for students.  Like all the others in this series, there are chapters on geography, history, government, economy, the people, lifestyles, religion, language, the arts, leisure and festivals.  The food chapter not only describes the local foods but offers a recipe for students to try.  The end of the book offers a glossary of terms and also a ìquick notesî fact sheet that can assist students as they develop their country reports.  Students rave about this series.  Peg Kleppinger

Jimenez, Francisco. BreakingThrough.  Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2001.  0-618-01173-0.  195p. $15.00.  Gr. 6-12. Using school and government records and family interviews and documents, Professor Jimenez recounts his experiences in junior and senior high school from a teenís perspective.  The Jimenez family were at first illegal and then legal immigrant itinerant farm workers in California who helped each other and persevered on courage, faith, hard work, and good character. This sequel to his award-winning The Circuit is an inspiring story of poverty and prejudice overcome by talent, a strong work ethic, a strong mother and caring family, and recognition and encouragement from educators. He certainly achieves his goals of paying tribute to his family and teachers and voicing the experiences of the many children who face seemingly insurmountable obstacles.   Eleanor Howe

Karabell, Zachary.  A Visionary Nation: Four Centuries of American Dreams and What Lies Ahead.  New York: HarperCollins, 2001.  0-380-97857-1. 246p  $26.00. Gr. 9-adult. Karabell explores how Americans' obsession with creating a perfect society has influenced the country's development throughout history.  He divides America's past into six historical stages and foresees a seventh.  In the past he names religion, individualism, unity, expansion, and government as the focus of each stage, and sees the market and the Internet as the present stage.  Karabell concludes that Americans are going to enter a new stage of "connectedness" because they are disillusioned with society's materialistic focus and are seeking a vision that includes family, intimacy, spirituality, and a sense of global connection with the world and other people.    He uses entertaining stories and solid historical background to make his case. Recommended for social issues, American social history, and contemporary affairs collections.                      Candy Blessing

Kort, Michael G.  The Handbook of the New Eastern Europe.  Twenty-First Century, 2001.  0-7613-1362-1 256p.  Gr. 8+. The handy single volume covers through the year 2000 and updates what is likely on your shelves on Poland, Hungary, the Czech and Slovak Republics, Romania, Bulgaria, and Albania.  A very good overview and starting point for research.      Joyce Valenza

Krohn, Katherine.  Ella Fitzgerald: First Lady of Song.  Minneapolis:Lerner Publications Co., 2001.  0-8225-4933-6. 11p. $25.26.  Gr. 6-10.  A straight forward, easy to read biography of Ella Fitzgerald.  Her successes, as well as the harder aspects of her life, are told simply, without elaboration.  There is much information about the Jazz Age included in this biography, including a two page insert-biography of Louis Armstrong, a Harlem Slang Glossary, and many photographs.  The book also includes a list of Ellaís Grammy Awards, timeline of her life, Sources List (footnotes), glossary of jazz terms, a selected bibliography, Disography Highlights, list of Internet jazz resources, and an index. Biography                   Constance Roupp

Krohn, Katherine. You and Your Parentís Divorce. New York: Rosen Publishing Group, 2001. 0-8239-3354-7. 48p. $17.95 Gr. 5-8. This deceptively slim volume carries a lot of good advice for children whose families are going through divorce.  Krohn has interviewed children who are experiencing the throes of divorce, presenting real life situations to which she offers insight and guidance. In addition there are address, telephone numbers, and web sties of organizations that can assist students seeking help.  This would be a good resource for guidance departments to have on hand. Other titles in the Family Matters Series are You and a Death in Your Family, You and an Illness in Your Family; You and the Rules in Your Family; You and Violence in Your Family; and You, Your Friends, and Your Family.                            Jeannie Bellavance

Kronzek, Allan Zola and Elizabeth Kronzek. The Sorcererís Companion : A Guide to the Magical World of Harry Potter. New York : Broadway Books, 2001.  0-7679-0847-3.  286p. $15.00. Gr. 4-adult. Want something to read while waiting for the next Harry Potter book to arrive?  Think J. K. Rowling dreamed up all those spells and creatures all by herself?  Here in only 286 pages is the ultimate treatise on all the magic used in Rowling books.  Youíll learn from a professional magician all the history, folklore and myth surrounding Harryís life at Hogwarts.  Nicholas Flamel was even a real person!  Once you pick this up, you wonít be able to put it down.                        Pat Naismith

Landau, Elaine.  Heroine of the Titanic: The Real Unsinkable Molly Brown.  New York:  Clarion Books, 2001.  0-395-93912-7. 132p. $18.00. Gr.5-6   The book begins with Margaret Brown's voyage on the ill-fated Titanic, outlines her heroic efforts during the rescue, and presents her subsequent philanthropic efforts on behalf of the immigrant survivors. The narrative recounts Margaret's humble beginnings and her marriage to a miner who struck it rich.  Through the use of archival photographs, letters and pictures, the author describes Margaret's many efforts to change the rigid society in which she lives.  Time line and comprehensive bibliography are included.    

Judy High, Arcadia University

Landau, Elaine.  Holocaust Memories: Speaking the Truth.  Danbury: Grolier, 2001. 0-531-11742-1. 95p. $22.50. Gr. 5-8. Nine touching stories of men and women who survived the holocaust as children.  Each recounts the author's experience in a clear but youthful voice.  Stories range from 8 to 15 pages and cover various first hand experiences including Crystal Night, the Warsaw Ghetto Rebellion and the Concentration Camp liberation.                                 Michelle Stone

Landau, Elaine.  Slave Narratives: The Journey to Freedom. Danbury: Grolier, 2001. 0-531-11743-X. 95p. $22.50. Gr. 6-9. Excerpts from four slave narratives bring to life the everyday struggles for existence and the quest for freedom of slaves in the Deep South.  The book details what it was like to work in the fields or be a house slave serving a white master from the slave's perspective.  The cruelty and degradation suffered by slaves comes across poignantly to the reader.  Wonderful sketches and drawings.  A further reading section lists books, museums, and websites with regard to African American History. Judy High, School Library Student at Arcadia University

Laughlin, Rosemary.  John D. Rockefeller: Oil Baron and Philanthropist.  Greensboro, NC: Morgan Reynolds, 2001.  1-883846-59-5. 112p.  $20.95. Gr. 5-10. Laughlin has written a biography that students will be able to use for research projects when studying the American Industrial Revolution.  Rockefellerís childhood and teenage years are explored and students learn how he grew up to be one of the most important industrial barons of the late nineteenth and early twentieth century.  As founder of Standard Oil, he was hated as a businessman because of his ruthlessness, but yet he gave millions of dollars to building schools, hospitals, and churches.  Students will find it interesting that the influence of his mother played an important role throughout his life and helped to shape his philanthropic efforts. Laughlin explains many of Rockefellerís business practices in a format which will help students to understand the time period.  Biography         Peg Kleppinger 

Lawlor, Laurie.  Helen Keller: Rebellious Spirit.  New York: Holiday House, 2001. 0-8234-1588-0. 168p. $22.95. Gr 7 +. The subtitle captures the spirit of Helen Keller, and takes us past the well known facts of her blindness and deafness and into the world of a woman who refused to be held back by her disabilities or by the expectations of society. She became a socialist, she was secretly engaged and she was on the vaudeville circuit, all the while supporting herself and her assistants. She eventually became an advocate for the disabled, a role that she championed until her death. Kellerís joy in living is evident in selected quotes and photographs. Includes a detailed chronology, source notes, suggestions for further reading, and an index.  Biography       Rosanne Zajko

Literary Movements and Genres Series. Greenhaven Press. $19.95 ea. Gr. 10-12. Einfeld, Jann (editor). Fairy Tales. 0-7377-0417-9.  223p. Tackach, James (editor). Slave Narratives. 0-7377-0550-7.  190p. Michael Stuprich (editor). Horror. 0-7377-0667-8.  20 p. Nolan, Michael (editor). American Humor. 0-7377-0415-2.  160p. Egendorf, Laura K. (editor). English Romanticism. 0-7377-0570-1.  160p. A subset of the Literary Companion Series, these volumes offer essays which examine important works within their genre.  The fairy tale volume includes essays defining the genre, discussing the various notable writers, analyzing works, discussing the influence of the genre, and assessing it. An excellent new series for upper level literary research.              Joyce Valenza

Loewen, Nancy, and Ann Bancroft. Four to the Pole: The American Womenís Expedition to Antarctica, 1992-1993. North Haven, CT: Linnet (Shoestring), 2001.  0-208-02518-9.  84p.  $25.00.  Gr. 6-12.  The goals of the expedition were to highlight the achievements of women, teach children about Antarctica through daily reports, increase environmental awareness, and provide data for physical and psychological research on women in extreme conditions, and to encourage meeting challenges. The text, supplemented by photographs taken on the expedition, includes background information about Antarctica, preparations, gear, supplies, and funding; but at the heart of the book are excerpts from the journals of each of the four women on the team. Readers share their mental, emotional, and physical stress as well as their boredom, isolation, and changing rolesóchallenges that inspire even greater awe for those who undertake and persevere on such ventures.              Eleanor Howe

Lommel, Cookie. The History of Rap Music. Philadelphia: Chelsea House, 2001. 0-7910-5820-4.  $9.95.  Gr. 7-12. Rap music fans looking for inside information are sure to find interesting, out-of-the-ordinary facts in this concise, well-documented book.  Starting with the emergence of rap music in 1979, to information on present day rappers such as Queen Latifah and Puff Daddy, the information, as well as the many photos, gives the reader a clear picture of where rap came from and where it is headed.     Joanie Marstiller

Loren, Julia C.  Engel v. Vitale: Prayer in Public School.  Famous Trials Series.  Lucent, 2001. $27.45 1-56006-732-2. 96p.  Gr. 6+. Each illustrated volume in the series offers a full exploration of the case and why it remains memorable.  Sidebars contain documentary material.  Great curricular relevance for high school social studies.     Joyce Valenza

Losch, Richard R. The Many Faces of Faith: A Guide to World Religions and ChristianTraditions.  Grand Rapids, Michigan:William B. Eerdmans, 2001. 080283910X. 192p. $19.99. Gr. 9-12 A great starting point for anyone needing a brief overview of the many different religions. Newer faiths, as well as traditional ones are covered. The second half of the book deals with the history of Christianity and the difference between the many denominations.  Good starting point for religion classes.         Donna Darmofal

Lost Civilizations Series. Lucent, 2001 27.45 each  Grades 7+. Lassieur, Allison.  Ancient Egyptians.  1-56006-755-1.  96p. Kallen, Stuart A. The Mayans 1-56006-757-8.  112 p.  Each volume in the series offers chapters that chronicle the rise and fall of the ancient civilization along with fascinating glimpses into daily life, religious beliefs, and scientific understanding. Informative sidebars cover such areas as ritual drug use and deadly ball games. The titles are peppered with quotes from noted historians. Black and white photos present artifacts.  Solid curricular stuff!  Joyce Valenza

Lourie, Peter. The Mystery of the Maya: Uncovering the Lost City of Palenque. Honesdale, PA:Boyds Mill Press, 2001. 1-56397-839-3.  48 p. $19.95 Gr. 4-6. The archaeologist author tells of his visit to the ancient city of Palenque a Mayan city in the jungles of Mexico near the Guatemalan border, discovered over a century ago, but largely unexcavated. Interesting historical information about the Mayans and the difficulties of the exploration are detailed. Full-color photographs, maps, glossary, and index.                    Susan Krenicky

MacDonald, Patricia A.  Pablo Picasso: Greatest Artist of the 20th Century.  Blackbirch Press, Inc., 2001.  1-56711-504-7.  128p.  $29.94.  Gr. 6-9.   Originally published in 1990 as Pablo Picasso Genius! The Artist and the Process, this book is another addition to the Giants of Art and Culture series. Not simply a biography, Pablo Picasso provides insight to the societal changes, political atmosphere, and world economic depression that influenced his artistic style and career. From his first art sales in Paris, through his Blue Period and Rose Period paintings, to his Cubist style and beyond, Picassoís career grew in popularity and affected an influence on the art world that is still appreciated today. A chronology of Picassoís life and career, glossary, bibliography, and index help to make this a highly accessible biography.           Elizabeth McChesney

Mace, Nancy.  In the Company of Men: a Woman at the Citadel. New York: Simon & Schuster, 2001.  0-689-84002-0. $18.00. Gr.  9-12. A true first person narrative of Nancy Maceís experience as one of the first young women to graduate from the famous all male Citadel.                Margaret Goodlin

McNeese, Tim. Attack on Pearl Harbor. Greensboro, NC: Morgan Reynolds, 2002. 1-883846-78-1. 112p. $20.95. Gr. 6-9. Another volume in the First Battles series, this book looks at the events that lead up to the attack on Pearl Harbor and the United States entering World War II.  From the Japanese desire to save Asia for the Asians, to Roosevelt angering the Japanese by building up troops in Oahu, the students are shown the details that brought on this devastating attack.  Maps, black and white photographs, and a timeline help bring this event to life.  An index, and a bibliography of both books and websites are included. Sandra Krieg 

Maran, Meredith.  Class Dismissed: Senior Year at an American High School.  New York: St. Martins Press, 2000.  0-312-26568-9. 256p.  $23.95.  Gr. 9-12. A chronicle of the senior year for three students in the Berkeley High School Class of 2000, the book focuses on three students and the issues that beset them, the teachers who inspire them and the friends that support them.  Jordan, a white teen from a wealthy family has different issues than Keith, a black gifted athlete whose attitude may prevent his graduation, and Autumn, a smart biracial teen whoís college-directed but not sure where the money will come from.  The book highlights issues facing racially-diverse schools and points up the achievement gap between white and minority students. It also shows how at crucial times, a teacher or friend can make the difference between success and failure.  A good addition to the multicultural selections as well as good advise for the college bound.  Candy Blessing

Marcovitz, Hal.  Sacagawea:  Guide for the Lewis and Clark Expedition.  Philadelphia:  Chelsea House, 2001.  0-7910-5959-6. $17.95. 63p. Gr. 6-8.  A young Indian woman guides Lewis and Clark through the Louisiana territory all the way to the Pacific Coast.  She is finally recognized for her contribution to our country.  She had an interesting life including being captured by another tribe, married to a French trapper and overcoming illness to lead the explorers across the wide, unknown expanse of country.   Karen Reese, Sandy Run Middle School Sub        

Micheli, Lyle J., M.D. with Mark Jenkins. The Sports Medicine Bible for Young Athletes. Naperville, IL: Sourcebooks, 2001. 1-57071-710-9. Gr. 7+. A well organized guide describing sports injuries, how to prevent and how to treat them.  Students, parents and coaches will find everything they need to know about sports injuries. A wonderful addition to any school health/sports section. 

Joan Schumer, Springfield Twp HS Library Aide

Mikula, Rick. The Family Butterfly Book.  Storey Books, 2000.  1-58017-292-X.  166p. $16.95 pb. Gr. 4+.  The stated mission of Storey Communications is to serve customers by publishing ìpractical information that encourages personal independence in harmony with the environment.î They have certainly achieved their goal. The format is attractive, the information accessible, the organization logical, and the appeal broad. A special section provides information to help the reader identify 40 butterflies, including geographic distribution, host plants, individual examples of egg, caterpillar, and chrysalis stages, as well as a precise scale measurement for enlarged photos. Other areas of interest include projects to create butterfly houses and a section on first aid for injured butterflies. Detailed color photos abound. Whether used for research, as a source for hobby development, or simply for browsing, The Family Butterfly Book would be a valuable addition to any collection. Highly recommended.         Elizabeth McChesney

Mitchell, Joyce Slayton.  Winning the Heart of the College Admissions Dean.  Berkeley, Calif.: Ten Speed Press,2001.  1-58008-300-5.  194p. $14.95.  Gr. 10-12. The author provides an insiderís view of the college admissions process that is both insightful and easily followed.  Having served on the school committee of the U.S. News and World Report college issue, she is privy to what admission is looking for in their prospective classes.  Parents, counselors and students will find this book very helpful.  While there are more than enough resources to assist in the college process; this book is a very good compilation of those resources.  Ed Cosgrove, Counselor Scranton Prep

Moehn, Heather. Coping with Social Anxiety. New York: Rosen, 2001.  0-8239-3363-6. 111p.  $25.25.  Gr. 7-12. This new title in a well-established series for young adults covers the definition, causes, personal examples, and effects of social anxiety as well as strategies for helping oneís self and getting professional help from others. At the end of the informative but informally written text are a glossary, helping agencies, books, web sites, and an index. The topic makes this a book that almost any teen would find interesting and easy reading.                Eleanor Howe

Monroe, Judy.  Lyme Disease (Perspectives on Disease and Illness) Mankato, MN: Capstone, 2001.0-7368-0751-9. 64p.  $23.93.  Gr. 5-8. Ms. Monroe explains what Lyme Disease is, what its symptoms are, and how it is spread.  She uses examples of young people who have contracted the disease to showcase how one is treated.  In addition to the simply written text, there are pictures of the rash, which will help everyone identify a rash that often indicates the presence of the disease.  There are excellent suggestions on how to best protect yourself from contracting Lyme Disease, as well as suggestions on avoid having ticks infest your yard.  Students in health classes will find this a good resource for their health projects. Health.   Peg Kleppinger

Moving History/Dancing Cultures. Eds. Ann Dils and Ann Cooper Albright.  Middletown, CT: Wesleyn University Press, 2001.  0-81956413-3. 492p. $24.95. Gr. 10-adult. This work is a cross-cultural history of dance that addresses both American and world dance traditions.  There are several sections included: Thinking about Dance History, Theory and Practices, World Dance Traditions, American Dancing, and Contemporary Dance: Global Contexts. The articles are accessible and quite interesting.  This book would make a nice addition to schools where students do research on the various arts.  The scholarly writing style, however, requires students to have good reading skills. Dance.     Peg Kleppinger

Muten, Burleigh. The Lady of Ten Thousand Names. New York: Barefoot Books, 2001. 1-84148-048-7.  79p. $19.99.  Gr. 5-8. Eight myths from different cultures that portray strong female Goddesses.  The stories leave the reader wanting to know more about the characters and may lead to further reading in mythology.  Uses include creative writing, story starters and read aloud.   Mythology/Women        Sue Long, Sandy Run Middle School Teacher

Myers, Walter Dean. Bad Boy: A memoir.  New York:HarperCollins, 2001.0-06-029523-6. 15.95.  Gr. 6-12. Bad Boy is the autobiography of Walter Dean Myers. Mr. Myers grew up in Harlem and went to an integrated school, where he had many white friends.  Although he had some behavior problems, his intelligence was noticed. The difference in races took a harsh toll on Mr. Myers.  The only joy in life was his writing and that stopped too. After a few years, he was back on track, writing poems and books that lead him to become an award winning writer. This is a book that really shows you what it was like to be African-American in the 1960ís. Memior. African-American Authors, Childhood and youth.  Tommy, 8^th Grade The Haverford School. 

Myers, Walter Dean.  The Greatest: Muhammad Ali.  Scholastic, 2001. $16.95. 0-590-54342-3.  172p.  Gr.  6+. This biography of award-winning author Myerís hero, is a tribute to Ali ìas an American, as a fighter, as a seeker of justice, as someone willing to stand up against odds no matter how daunting the odds, no matter how big his foe.î  The reader also gains insight into the world of boxing and the brutal nature of the sport.  This good read should be one of the more popular titles in your biography collection. Biography                Joyce Valenza

Naylor, Phyllis Reynolds. How I Came To Be a Writer. New York: Aladdin, 2001 (rev ed.).  0-689-83887-5. 139p. $4.99. Gr. 5-10. Written in an effervescent style with both humor and reflection, Naylorís book recounts her life-long experiences in writing. Included are her early poems and stories, specific sources of inspiration for her books, the creativity and discipline of writing, and an understanding of how writing helps her. Her life indicates that the best preparations for writing are story telling/reading aloud and reading. This revised edition includes material on the writing of Newbery Award winning Shiloh and its sequels. Anyone who has enjoyed her novels will enjoy this memoir, and it could also be used for biography assignments.     Eleanor Howe

Newhouse, Eric. Alcohol:Cradle to Grave. Minnesota: Hazelden, 2001.  1-56838-734-2.  243p. $22.95. Gr. 10+. Written in journal form, the reporter gives us a startling view into the lives of people in a small town. This book is based on the authorís Pulitzer Prize winner series on alcoholism in rural America.  His interviews with alcoholic who reveals their darkest secret is an eye opener.  These people are more than statistics and their stories reveal how serious the problem is in the United States.  He visits AA meetings, treatment programs ,jails and hospitals.  This a great book for the serious student who has to do a report on this topic.     Donna Darmofal

Newton, David E. et al. ed. Science, Technology, and Society; the Impact of Science in the 19th Century. 2 vol. Detroit: Gale, 2001. 0-7876-4874-4. 373p.  $95.00.  Gr. 5 up. With chapters on Life Science, Medicine, Mathematics, Physical Science, and Technology and Invention, the two-volume set provides a chronology and overview of each topic followed by essays and biographies related to major discoveries and development within the discipline.  Teachers will appreciate the ideas offered for student reports and presentations related to the topics. In each chapter, sidebars, which highlight events and issues related to the discoveries and the people who made them, keep the page layout open and attractive.  A general chronology, glossary and table of contents for the set appear in each volume making the set easy to use.  Very timely!                  Candy Blessing

Nimmo, Beth.  The Journals of Rachel Scott.  Tommy Nelson, 2001.  0-8499-7594-8.  148p. $9.99.  Gr. 5-12.  Rachel Scott was the first student to die at Columbine. Here, adapted by her mother, Beth Nimmo, and interpreted by writer Debra Klingsporn, is the story of Rachelís journey of faith as evidenced through her writings. Klingsporn enables the reader to view life as Rachel may have experienced it. From Rachelís first motivations to dedicate herself to a Christian life to the final moments before she was fatally shot, Rachel never wavered in her beliefs. To maintain Rachelís perspective, comments from family members and excerpts from Rachelís own writings are interspersed with Klingspornís narrative. The pages also include ample space for the reader to record personal thoughts and reactions to the text. This book is not just a profession of Rachelís faith; it is an invitation to join her.  Elizabeth McChesney

Opposing Viewpoints Series.  Greenhaven, 2001. $19.95 each Gr. 9-12.  Political Scandals.  0-7377-0517-5. 175p. Police Brutality.  0-7377-0515-9.  154p.  These two highly relevant titles are among those added to the highly-acclaimed series this year.  Essays are carefully selected and give students the ammunition they need for effective writing and debate.  Chapter prefaces provide critical context.             Joyce Valenza

Orgill, Roxane.  Mahalia: A Life in Gospel Music.  Candlewick Press, 2002. 0-7636-10011-9. 132p. $19.99.  Gr. 4+.  Told with the flow of language and vocabulary that one can imagine being spoken by Mahalia Jackson herself, Roxane Orgill has written a biography that is accessible, informative and entertaining.  Orgill avoids the repetitive nature of a biography that simply spits out facts. Instead, she shares the personal experiences in Mahaliaís life that caused her to dedicate her life to God and enabled her to develop her unique gospel music style. Although Mahaliaís life was filled with personal trialsóillness that plagued her entire life, two marriages that ended in divorce, business managers who refused her input, the untimely death of a dear friend in Martin Luther King, Jr.óshe called upon God for support and guidance, and refused to give up hope. Orgill provides Mahaliaís disappointments as well as her accomplishments in a straightforward manner without embellishments. A bibliography and index are appended.   Elizabeth McChesney 

Orgill, Roxane.  Shout, Sister, Shout! Ten Girl Singers Who Shaped a Century.  Margaret K. McElderry Books, 2001.  0-689-81991-9.  148p.  $18.00.  Gr. 7+.  Author Roxane Orgill has been a music critic for more than twenty years. Her expertise shines through as she presents short biographies of ten female singers of the twentieth century. Orgill discusses their careers and personal lives, balancing the narrative with both humorous and startling anecdotes. Numerous sidebars highlight innovations during each decade, from 1900 through 1990, such as the stereo records of the 50s and the compact discs of the 80s. A brief discography, bibliography, and index are appended. Sophie Tucker, Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith, Ethel Merman, Judy Garland, Anita OíDay, Joan Baez, Bette Midler, Madonna, and Lucinda Williams are included.  Elizabeth McChesney

Overview Series. Lucent Books. $27.45 each. Gr. 7-10. Yount, Lisa. Ethanasia. 1-56006-697-0.  112p. Stewart, Gail B. Gambling. 1-56006-795-9.  112p.  Lassieur, Allison. Abortion. 1-56006-818-3.  96p. McGowan, Keith. Hazardous Waste. 1-56006-699-7.  112p. Levy, Debbie. Medical Ethics. 1-56006-547-8.  128p. Jones, Jeff P. School Violence. 1-56006-710-1.  112p.  These updates and additions to Lucentís reliable Overview Series are engaging and nicely facilitate  popular controversial issues research.                                                                        

Parker, Steve. Fish. New York: Dorling Kindersley, 2000. 64p. 0-7894-5810-1. $15.95. Gr 7-12. Like other books in the DK Eyewitness Books series, this volume tells you everything you ever wanted to know about fish. Jam-packed with solid information and fascinating pictures, this volume is an excellent overview of fish, their environments, their physiology and development, their reproductive habits, and much more. Written in an easy-to-understand format, this book also has an index to help find specific information. Nature               Nancy Chrismer

Partridge, Elizabeth.  Restless Spirit: the Life and Work of Dorothea Lange.  New York: Viking, 1998. 0-670-87888-X.  122p.  $21.99. Gr. 9-12. A  beautiful biography as told through her pictures and the words of Langeís assistantís daughter.  Her photos depict the Depression and scenes from World War II.  This book can be used in a variety of different classes from social studies to art.  Highly recommend this book.        Donna Darmofal

Patent, Dorothy Hinshaw.  Charles Darwin: The Life of a Revolutionary Thinker.  New York:  Holiday House, 2001.  0-8234-1494-9.  144p. $22.95.  Gr. 7-adult. Charles Darwin is portrayed as a dedicated scientist and devoted family man in this well written and detail oriented biography.  Using Darwin's letters, drawings and journal entries, the author follows Darwin's quest for knowledge regarding his theory of natural selection.  Darwin's theories are recounted in an easy to follow, logical fashion.  The book concludes noting the impact that Darwin's theories still have on modern science.  Time line, glossary and map of the Beagle's journey are included.   Judy High, Arcadia University                                                          

Peacock, Judith.  Abstinence: Postponing Sexual Involvement. (Perspectives on Healthy Sexuality).  Mankato, MN: LifeMatters, 2001.  0-7368-8842-X. 64p.  $23.93.  Gr. 6-12.  Ms. Peacock provides a simple straight-forward book on the reasons why abstinence is a good choice for students.  Each chapter is another reason why teens should rethink their choices about sexuality.  She begins by explaining abstinence, its benefits, how to deal with challenges and why it is important to say no to sexual pressure as a young person.  There is a glossary and some additional useful addresses and Internet sites.  Students who are in health classes that focus on sexuality choices or issues will find this an easy to read source for research assignments.   Health.    Peg Kleppinger

Peacock, Judith.  Dating and Sex : Defining and Setting Boundaries.  Mankato: LifeMatters, 2001.  0-7368-0716-0  64p.  $23.93.  Gr. 8-12. This title is part of the Perspectives on healthy sexuality series.  The book suggests ways for teens to navigate the world of dating.  There is a discussion of healthy relationships, the challenges that couples face, making a decision about sex and handling breakups.  Each chapter focuses on one issue and includes a statement from a teen and a section entitled ìpoints to consider.î  There is a glossary, some useful addresses and internet sites included at the end of the book.  It also contains the titles of other books from the series including Teen Sex: Risks and Consequences; On Relationships: A Book for Teenagers; Abstinence: Postponing Sexual Involvement; Birth Control and Protection: Options for Teens;  Gay and Lesbian Youth. This could be used in family issues classes as a jumping off point for discussion.   Dating          Peg Kleppinger

Poetry Speaks: Hear Great Poets Read Their Work From Tennyson to Plath.  Sourcebooks, 2001. $49.95  1-57073-720-6  336 p.  Three audio CDs. A beautiful gift!  This anthology of the best poets of last century and a half is arranged chronologically and includes brief profiles, critical commentary, and audio recordings of notable poets reading their most memorable works.  A great resource for English teachers!                Joyce Valenza

Philip, Neil. The Great Mystery: Myths of Native America. New York:Clarion Books, 2001. 0-395-98405-X 145p. $25.00 Gr 8-12. An excellent resource, this book brings together creation and nature myths of Native American tribes from all areas of North America. Written in an easy-to-read format with many related photos, the myths are grouped by region. The author compares, contrasts, and explains the myths of various tribes in each region, showing the beliefs of the people as they relate to the natural world. More comprehensive than just a re-telling of creation myths, this volume is a rich compendium of Native American mythology for those who want to research or to just read about this fascinating subject. Mythology.    Nancy Chrismer

Pickels, Dwayne E. Am I Okay? Psychological Testing and What Those Tests Mean. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Chelsea House, 2001. 96p. 0-7910-5319-9. $27.45. Gr. 7-12. Part of the Encyclopedia of Psychological Disorders series, this volume explains the history and practices of psychological testing. Explanations of various types of testing are given, and included are chapters on intelligence testing, personality testing, and aptitude testing. The general procedures and techniques of various tests are discussed. The author explains the various tests and testing procedures used specifically with children, and ends with a brief discussion of the improvements in brain scanning versus the continued need for psychological testing. There is an index, glossary, list of selected psychological tests with identifying explanations, list of places to go for more information, bibliography, and a suggested reading list. Psychology                   Nancy Chrismer

Pollitt, Katha.  Subject to Debate:  Sense and Dissents on Women, Politics and Culture. New York: Modern Library, 2001.. 0-679-78343-1. 288p  $12.95. Gr. 10 through College. Originally published in the authorís column in The Nation, the essays in this collection are a witty commentary on contemporary issues with topics ranging from abortion and school vouchers to affirmative action.  Students in journalism and womenís studies classes will find her style and content engaging.  Useful for the research classes.         Candy Blessing

Prendergast, Tom.  Constitutional Amendments:  From Freedom of Speech to Flag Burning. Detroit:  UXL an imprint of Gale Group.  200l. 0-7876-4865-5.  Gr 7-12. Typical to UXL publications, Constitutional AmendmentsÖ is written for the middle level reader with text that is visual and compelling, enhancing the largely factual content of the constitution.  Each amendment is clearly discussed with cases pertaining to the amendment included. Also added is a history of each amendment with its various revisions.  There are also recommended resources and websites at the end of each chapter.  An extensive glossary and index are contained in each volume.  Many history and government classes from middle through high school will find Constitutional Amendments very helpful in fulfilling their research assignments.                             Susan Mowery

Pringle, Laurence.  Global Warming: The Threat of Earth's Changing Climate.  New York: SeaStar Books, 2001.  1-58717-009-4. 48p. $16.95. Gr. 6-adult.  A colorful and informative explanation of various aspects of global warming.  The important environmental issue in defined, the causes are identified, evidence of environmental impact is presented and solutions are discussed.  This would be a good resource for environmental studies, or persuasive speech topics.  Includes a glossary, further reading and index.                           Michelle Stone                                               

Ramen, Fred.  Individual Rights and Civic Responsibility: the Rights of the Accused.  New York:Rosen Publishing Group, 2001.  0-8239-3238-9  $26.50 Gr. 9-12. Explains what the rights of the accused are, according the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights. A must have for studying the U.S. Government.   Criminal Law              Margaret Goodlin

Rau, Margaret.  Belle of the West: The True Story of Belle Starr.  Greensboro, NC: Morgan Reynolds, 2001.  1-883846-68-4. 159p. $20.95.  Gr. 5-9. This biography is an attempt to discover who Belle Starr really was.  For years her story was embellished by the American press as they attempted to write about the Wild West. Was she a bank robber?  What role did Jesse James and Cole Younger play in her life?  Even as late as 1941 there were stories about Myra Maybelle Shirley and her life that were more legendary than truthful.  Belleís life story was so popular that she became the subject of plays, songs and poems.  Ms. Rau reviewed old letters, marriage records and pictures from family albums to discover the real person behind all the tales of her criminal friends and her adventurous life. There is a long bibliography to assist students who want to discover the real Belle Starr. Biography                       Peg Kleppinger

Rau, Margaret. The Wells Fargo Book of the Gold Rush. New York: Atheneum Books, 2001. 0-689-83019-X. 160p. $18.00. Gr. 7-9. This book provides excellent information about the California Gold Rush. It covers many aspects of this time period in California history, and gives the reader a more realistic picture of the people and the times than is found in regular history books. Because the Wells Fargo company has helped to produce this book, the contributions of that company are highlighted, but this does not detract from the book's effectiveness.   American History                                Nancy Chrismer

Redmond, Ian. The Elephant Book : for the Elefriends Campaign. Cambridge, MA: Candlewick Press, 2001.  0-7636-1634-6.  48 p. $17.99. Gr. 6-8. An update of a 1991 edition, this new book by biologist, Ian Redmond, describes the habitats and behaviors of elephants through spectacular photos, text and quotations from prominent scientists with emphasis on their endangered status. Proceeds from the book benefit, Elefriendsí (an Elephant Protection Group) campaign to promote interest and respect for these animals. Full-color photographs and index provided.      Susan Krenicky                                                        

Reef, Catherine. Sigmund Freud:Pioneer of the Mind.  New York: Clarion Books, 2001. 0-618-01762-3.  152p.  $19.00. This book is a wonderful resource for anyone interested in the life of Freud. Great photographs, insightful quotes, a glossary of psychological terms and a good bibliography are all highlights  of this book. Reef shows us that Freud was more interested in how one looks at oneself and how the mind influences the body.  Highly recommend.                     Donna Darmofal

Reid, T.R. The Chip: How Two Americans Invented the Microchip and Launched a Revolution. New York: Random House, 2001.  0-375-75828-3.  309p.  $13.95.  Gr. 10-adult. This book records an important chapter in the history of science and engineering: the separate invention of the integrated circuit by Jack S. Kilby at Texas Instruments and Robert N. Noyce at Fairchild, both of whom solved the problem of how to speed up computer calculations by reducing the circuitry. Rather than focus on biography, the author describes the creative process and assumes the reader has some knowledge of computers and computer science. The highly informative text is followed by a few photographs, extensive endnotes from a variety of authoritative sources, and an index.                          Eleanor Howe 

Religion in American Life Series.  Oxford, 2001.  0-19-555511295-4.  140+-p. $24.00. Gr. 9-12. This 17-volume series covers an area of American history traditionally difficult for students to research.  Coverage begins with the colonial period.  Narrative is of the quality and scholarship youíd expect of Oxford. Titles include: Jews in American; Women in American Religion; Alternative American Religions; Religion  in 20_th Century America. Excellent for high school research.   J. Valenza

Rhatigan, Joe and Heather Smith . Sure-to-Win Science Fair Projects. New York:Lark Books, 2001.  1-57990-238-3.  128p.  $21.95.  Gr.5+. Students looking for science projects will find this book very helpful. These projects are put together by students who have already won prizes. Colorful step-by-step instructions including how to choose a topic, how to record data and presentation.   Great for any science competition.      Donna Darmofal

Rimm, Sylvia.  How Jane Won: 55 successful women share how they grew from ordinary girls to extraordinary women. New York:Crown Publishers, 2001.  351p.  $25.00. The women, who encompass all different professions from law to the entertainment field , offer how to succeed advice.  The short chapters on each of these women offer inspiration to young girls who see themselves as mediocre students.   The women interviewed are great role models fr young teen girls.  Successful follow up to See Jane Win.            Donna Darmofal       

Rinard, Judith E. The Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum Book of Flight. Willowale, Ontario: Firefly Books.  1-55209-619-X. 128p. $24.95. Gr. 6+. From the beginning of flight to living in outer space, this intriguing book offers a wide array of information for aircraft enthusiasts.  The color photos, along with the fun fact sidebars, add to the eye-catching, easy-to-read information.  Did you know that the X-15's top speed of 4,520 mph is fast enough to fly across the United States in 40 minutes?  This is just an example of the facts you will learn in this excellent book.                     Joanie Marstiller

Roberts, Jeremy.  King Arthur (How History is Invented). Minneapolis: Lerner, 2001. 0-8225-4891. 104p. $23.93. Gr. 7-12. This is an interesting look at the King Arthur legend and how it grew throughout the centuries. Roberts looks at King Arthurís feats and discusses which of the legends are grounded in fact. Historians continue to debate why Arthur is given credit for things historians know he couldnít have done and why they canít find places where Arthurís battles actually took place.  Historians do, however, remain convinced that Arthur did exist and that he did lead British troops in battle. Students will find the comparison of the various accounts interesting. The chapters alternate between history and legend so students can easily compare the legend with what historians can actually prove through documentation.  The author includes an accessible bibliography for students and a suggestion for further research on the Camelot Project website that is maintained by the University of Rochester. Biography.     Peg Kleppinger

Rosen, Michael. Shakespeare: His Works & His World. Cambridge, MA: Candlewick Press, 2001. 0-7636-1568-4. 96p. $19.99 Gr. 5-9.  The illustrations and lively text that is interspersed with apt quotations draw the reader into Shakespeareís world.  Rosen presents a well-rounded view of Elizabethan times, incorporating discussion of the political and religious atmosphere and shows how Shakespeare used his plays as a vehicle for commentaries and satires on contemporary life. The chapter entitled "The Legacy" explanations Shakespeareís influence our language today with various expressions such as "tongue-tied" and "set your teeth on edge."   The annotated timeline at the end of the book is very helpful as well.  The tone of the book is energetic and a bit playful, making Shakespeare very accessible.       Jeannie Bellavance

Rosenberg, Liz, ed. Roots and Flowers: Poets and Poems on Family.  Henry Holt, 2001. 0-8050-6433-8.  244p.  $21.95.  ìPoetry is all about connections,î writes editor Rosenberg, ìFamily is the first connection we feel.î   The forty poets represented in this collection speak eloquently of sons and daughters and brothers and sisters and parents and grandparents.  A short autobiographical sketch and a photo (with family members) precede each poetís work.  Very attractive for assignments and poetry fans. J. Valenza

Rothman, Kevin F.  Coping with Dangers on the Internet: Staying Safe On-line.  Rosen Publishing Group, Inc., 2001.  0-8239-3201-X.  121p.  $25.25.  Gr. 7-12. In six short chapters, author Kevin Rothman conveys the dangers of the Internet and the precautions necessary to safeguard the user. Although the situations presented are, at times, a bit simplistic, they do convey the serious nature of personal transmissions online. Rothman addresses general safety guidelines, email protocol, web surfing, and chat rooms. A glossary of common terms, addresses and web sites of helpful organizations, a bibliography of additional resources, and an index round out this volume. Pair this with Katie.com by Katherine Tarbox for the greatest impact.          Elizabeth McChesney

Rubin, Susan Goldman.  There Goes the Neighborhood: Ten Buildings People Love To Hate.  New York:  Holiday House, 2001.  0-8234-1435-3.  $18.95.  Books that contain illustration of how buildings are built are always a favorite with art, architecture, drawing classes, and as recreational readers.  The book focuses on ten buildings that, when they were built, infuriated their neighbors, but have grown into great symbols of our culture.  Architecture   Margaret Goodlin

St. George, Judith.  John and Abigail Adams: An American Love Story.  New York: Holiday House, 2001. 0-8234-1571-6.  147p.  $22.95.  Grades 7 +.    The love story of John and Abigail Adams is well known and well documented, but St. George makes it accessible to a new generation of young Americans. Drawing heavily on the Adamsí copious correspondence and diaries, St. George portrays two people in love with each other at a time when they are called upon to sacrifice their lives for the birth of freedom and for America.  The subtitle would suggest the book would appeal to girls, but it would appeal to anyone looking for historical accuracy into the lives of these two fascinating people.  Engravings and paintings illustrate the readable and conversational text, which includes excerpts from the Adamsí correspondence. Includes a chronology, bibliography, selected websites and an index. Biography                         Rosanne Zajko

Sanderson, Peter. Ultimate X-Men. London : DK, 2001. 0-7894-6693-7.  176p.  $19.95. Gr. 4-adult.  A coffee table book for all X-Men fans, and a great addition to cartoon collections.  Everything you ever wanted to know about X-Men ñ the origins, the evolution of the comics, television, movies ñ itís all here.  My high school students couldnít put it down.           Pat Naismith

Shandler, Nina.  Opheliaís Mom. New York : Crown, 2001.  0-609-60886-X.  286p.  $24.00-adult. Family therapist and mother of the author of Ophelia Speaks, Shandler shares the lives of adolescent girls from the point of view of the mother who must understand and let go.  As in Ophelia Speaks, the contributions come from 110 mothers and deal with subjects from sex to eating disorders and more.  A valuable addition.                      Pat Naismith

Sherrow, Victoria.  Cuba.  Brookfield, CN: Twenty-first Cenury Books, 2001.  0-7613-1404-0. $24.40.  Gr. 6-9. Includes the history, economy, politics and human rights including the culture, and what it is like to live in Cuba today. Cuba   Margaret Goodlin

Sherrow, Victoria.  For  Appearances Sake: The Historical Encyclopedia of Good Looks, Beauty and Grooming.  Westport, CT: Oryx, 2001.  (1-57356-204-1. 299 p.  $67.50. Gr. 7+. Well-written short articles cover trends in fashion and beauty from early history to present day.  Included are biographies of those who influenced or created fashion in their day, people like Vidal Sassoon, Mary Kay Asher, Madame du Barry, Coco Channel, and Princess Diana.  Cultural, as well as social influences are mentioned; references for further reading are listed.  An extensive bibliography of recent writings on such topics as plastic surgery, bulimia and new age cosmetics adds to the bookís value as a reference aid.  Handy for quick reference and sure to be popular in high school libraries.  Candy Blessing

Slam.  Forward by Tori Amos. Alloy, 2000. $5.99.  0-14-130919-9.  157p. Gr. 9+.  The words of teen poets appear side-by-side with those of the Beats, the lyrics of hip-hop, and Shakespeare.  Designed in a kinda ìWiredî style, this appealing little book will inspire your student poets.             Joyce Valenza

Sneden, Robert Knox. Images of the Storm: 300 Civil War Images by the Author of Eye of the Storm. New York: Free Press, 2001.  0-7432-2360-8.  263p.  $50.00.  Gr. 8-adult. Trained as an architect or surveyor, Canadian-born Robert Knox Sneden enlisted in the Union Army where his artistic talent was recognized by General Heintzelman who used him to draw maps. His service for the General kept him near the front but far enough away to write the extensive journals (5000 pages), many of which were published with a few of his illustrations in Eye of the Storm. This companion volume includes a brief journal excerpt with each illustration and focuses instead on his artwork (maps and watercolor pictures of battle locations, towns, and significant buildings). His competent illustrations give a tremendous feeling for the state of the country at the time as well as visual evidence of important events and locations until his capture as a prisoner of war when he was unable to secure much paper for writing or drawing.     Eleanor Howe  

Solomon, Susan.  Coldest March:  Scottís Fatal Antarctic Expedition.  New Haven: Yale University Press.  2001.  0-300-08967-8.  Gr. 10-adult. ìHad we lived, I should have had a tale to tell of the hardihood, endurance, and courage of my companions which would have stirred the heart of every Englishman.  These rough notes and our dead bodies must tell the tale.î  These are the prophetic words of Antarctic explorer, Robert Falcon Scott whose expedition to be the first group to reach the South Pole ended in both disappointment and tragedy.  After a treacherous route in 35 degrees below 0 temperatures, Scott and his men learned that a Norwegian team had arrived almost one month earlier.  Scott and his men perished on their return journey only to be considered failures for many years.  Author and senior scientist with the Aeronomy Laboratory of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Susan Solomon set out to investigate the scientific facts of Scottís expedition.  She concluded that Scott had indeed succeeded in his efforts in reaching the South Pole and that he and his men met with horrendous and unexpected weather conditions. This is a highly recommended book for those students who enjoy adventure books like Lansing's Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage or Krakauerís Into Thin Air.   Adventure                Susan Mowery  

Stepan, Peter, ed.  Photos That Changed the World: The 20th Century. New York:Prestel, 2000.   3-7913-2395-4.  $29.95.  Gr. 5-adult. The title of the books reveals the contents.  In addition to the photos, some historical information is included, but the book is about photography, not about history.  Information about the photographer is given, if known.  Art, culture, war, entertainment, and the human experience are presented here through the eye of the camera.  This book is similar to And the Crowd Went Wild and We Interrupt This Broadcast.                       Constance Roupp

Stewart, Melissa. Rachel Carson: Writer and Biologist.  Chicago: Ferguson, 2001.  0-89434-368-8. 127p. $18.00 Gr. 5-8. One of the Fergusonís Career Biographies series which includes biographies on Tim Berners-Lee, Leonard Bernstein, Jane Goodall, Henry Ford, Colin Powell, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Carl Sagan, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Oprah Winfrey, and Tiger Woods.  This book and others in the series focuses on the subjectís early life and the development of their careers.  Bibliography, information regarding preparation for the career of the subject, and index is included.  Biography        Susan Krenicky

Streissguth, Tom. Science Fiction Pioneer: A Story about Jules Verne. Minneapolis: Carolrhoda Books, Inc., 2001. 1-57505-440-X. 64p.  $15.95 Gr. 4-7. This is an easily accessible, well-written biography of the science fiction writer Jules Verne.  Although it appears to be for younger students, this book will appeal to reluctant readers. Included are a selected list of works by Verne, a bibliography and an index.  This book is part of the Creative Minds Biographies that include biographies of Pearl Buck, Hans Christian Anderson, Carl Sandburg, Dr. Seuss, Shakespeare, Phillis Wheatley, Charles Dickens, E. B. White, Will Cather, Thomas Edison, Robert Fulton, and Maria Mitchell. Biography                   Jeannie Bellavance

Sullivan, George.  All About Soccer.  New York: G. P. Putnam's Sons, 2001. 0-399-23481-0. $15.99. Gr. 6-10. Both beginner and veteran soccer players will gain useful information in this extremely informative book.   Its many captioned photos, along with easy-to-read text, captures the essence of the game, while giving some practical advice on playing to this exciting and popular sport.      Joanie Marstiller

Terkel, Marni and Susan Neiburg Terkel.  Whatís an ìAî Anyway?  Franklin Watts, 2001. 0-531-11417-1.  144p. $24.00.  Gr. 7-12.  Although readers may take issue with some of the ideas discussed, this book will prove useful for students having to research debate topics. The chapters cover such points as rewards vs. punishments, internal vs. external motivation, and strengths vs. weaknesses of Gardnerís Multiple Intelligences. The authorsí purpose is not to demean the education process. Instead, they have done well to present both sides when dealing with the question of the value of any given grading system. The reader is given a pop quiz on page 26 to ìillustrate some of the decisions teachers have to make when grading.î The quiz certainly shifts the point of view concerning test taking. Whatís an ìAî Anyway?  takes an interesting approach to a much-debated topic.  Elizabeth McChesney

Tessitore, John.  F. Scott Fitzgerald:  The American Dreamer.  New York:  Franklin Watts,  200l.  0-531-13955-7.  $24.00.  Gr. 8-12. This small biography of F. Scott Fitzgerald succinctly and interestingly covers all of the major events in the authorís life from his early childhood in St. Paul to his death in Hollywood at the age of forty-four.   There are discussions of Fitzgeraldís tumultuous relationships with Zelda Fitzgerald, Ginerva King, Sheilah Graham and his daughter, Scotty.  Also reviewed are aspects of his career as both author and screenwriter. Interspersed with many black and white photographs, this slim volume will benefit students who need a quick overview of Fitzgeraldís life.  Also included is an extensive index and a list of other biographies, books of letters and essays, other novels by Fitzgerald, a list of novels made into films, and a website from the University of South Carolina.             Biography                  Susan Mowery

Tessitore, John. John Steinbeck: a Writer's Life. New York:Franklin Watts, 2001. 0-531-11707-3.  143p.  $25.00.  Gr. 8-10. This interesting account of Steinbeck's life is a must for any high school collection. Quotes from his works begin each chapter.  Photos and movie stills highlight this work.  Good bibliography and related web sites are found in the back of the book.  Highly recommend.                             Donna Darmofal

Turning Points in World History Series.  Greenhaven, 2001.  $31.20/$19.95 paper. Gr. 10+. Ancient Egyptian Civilization.   0-7377-0480-2. 255p. The Inquisition 0-7377-0486-1. 267p. Each of these excellent anthologies  ìpresents a group of essays chosen for their accessibility that highlight political trends and consequences, literary, cultural, and/or technological ramifications, and pivotal leaders.î  Essays are introduced with overviews placing them in historical context and summarized in bullets.  The appendices contain critical primary source documents. A fine addition to all high school collections and especially useful for AP history.                                        Joyce Valenza

25 Jobs That Have It All. Chicago:Ferguson Publishing Co., 2001.  0-89434-327-0.  195p.  $12.95.  Gr. 10-adult. This book is a list of 25 top jobs that suit the job seeker looking to get to the top fairly quickly.  While helpful in that it is comprehensive, the same information can be found in guidance  offices and on the Internet.  This book is useful but could be out of date by next week. Ed Cosgrove, Counselor Scranton Prep

Understanding Great Literature Series.  Lucent Books.  $27.45 ea.  Gr. 7-12. Howard, Todd.  Understanding the Outsiders.  1-56006-702-0.  80p. Kallen, Stuart A.  Understanding The Catcher in the Rye.  1-56006-783-7.  96p. Kelley, Jennifer.  Understanding I Am the Cheese. 1-56006-678-4.  112p. Nardo, Don.  Understanding Hamlet.  1-56006-830-2.  112p. Trasher, Thomas. Understanding Romeo and Juliet.  1-56006-787-X.  112p.  This new series of companions to classics and modern classics is approachable for middle and young (and more reluctant) high school students.  Each follows a clear format of author biography, genre or contextual information, plot overview, character analysis, themes, a summary of the criticism, chronology and annotated bibliographies. Though this is not the best resource for AP English, it will enable other students to better understand great works.             Joyce Valenza  

U.S. Olympic Committee. 2001.  A Basic Guide to Cycling. 0-8363-2795-3.   (Part of series, including Decathlon, Equestrian, Softball, Wrestling, and Olympism) $22.60 ea.  Gr. 7+. This timely series of Olympic-related sports makes for an excellent addition to the sports reference section collection.  Each book gives leading information on stars from the 2000 Summer Olympics, practical advice on buying equipment, a brief history of each sport, along with results from the 2000 Olympics in Sydney.            Joanie Marstiller

United States Olympic Committee.  A Basic Guide to Softball. Torrance, California:  Griffin Publishing Group (A division of World Almanac Education Group Company.)  2001.  0-8368-2798-8. Gr. 6-12. This basic guide is one of a series of books published by the United States Olympic Committee.  Each guide provides a short history of the sport, some recent award-winning olympians and the fundamen-tals of performance in the sport.  Also included are training organizations, health and fitness concerns that relate to the sport, guidelines, a glossary and the results of the 2000 Olympic Games.  An index is not included.  This simple guide would be of value to any student interested in the sport or those who have to research it.  Other titles in the series include:  A Basic Guide to Decathalon, Ö Cycling, Ö Wrestling, Ö and  Ö Equestrian.  Sports   Susan Mowery  

Vanderwarker, Peter. The Big Dig: Reshaping an American City. Boston: Little. Brown & Co., 2001. 0-316-605980. 56p. $17.95.  Gr. 6+ The Big Dig has not only changed the way people drive in Boston but has had an impact on all parts of the city life. Vanderwarker explains the background, the technology and the engineering behind this colossal undertaking in easily understood manner.  Students interested in construction and design problems will find this a fascinating book. The text is enhanced with photographs and diagrams.  Key players are also quoted to give the project a more personal side.    Jeannie Bellavance

Vogel, Carole Garbuny. Breast Cancer: Questions & Answers for Young Women. Brookfield, Connecticut: Twenty-first Century Books, 2001. 0-7613-1855-0. $25.90. 176p. Gr. 7-12. This is an extremely important book and should be in every library. It addresses one of the foremost medical issues for girls and women in our society. The author does exactly what the title suggests: poses many of the most common questions that girls have about this disease, and then provides clear, concise, and balanced answers to those questions. She embeds these questions and answers in excellent explanations of medical and emotional issues, and includes clear illustrations to help the reader understand this complicated disease. She confronts and explains even the most negative possibility, death, in a sensitive yet practical manner. Her discussion of up-to-date treatment methods and current research possibilities are excellent. Throughout the book, she creates for the reader the hope and the feeling that someday soon there will be a cure for this disease. Health/Medical         Nancy Chrismer

Warren, Andrea. We Rode the Orphan Trains. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2001. 0-618-11712-1.  132p. $18.00. Gr. 4-8. Nearly 200,000 children found new homes through the Orphan Trains, which ran from1854-1929.  Each had a unique story.  In this book, Andrea Warren, through interviews and archival records relates just a few of these.  Each story can be read separately, but together they show a moving record of hope and resilience.  Not all have happy endings, but readers can learn what it is like to be homeless or to be looked over like a piece of merchandise, or to be shifted from family to family or to finally find the elusive answers about oneís past.  Warren also asks the reader to think of children today who are living in foster care or awaiting adoption.  This is a very sensitive and thought provoking book.  Jeannie Bellavance

Waters, Fiona, ed. Poems Then and Now.  Evans Bros, 2001.  0-237-52127-X. 94 p.  Gr 7+. $22.95.  This most unusual anthology arranges classic and modern poems in pairs (for instance, Shakespeare and Dorothy Parker) to allow readers to compare treatment of themes.  Wonderful fodder for English teachers and fascinating for poetry fans.      Joyce Valenza

The Way People Live Series. Lucent Books. $27.45 ea. Ages 10+ Sherrow, Victoria. Life in a Medieval Monastery. 1-56006-791-8.  96p. Cartlidge, Cherese, and Clark, Charles. Life of a Nazi Soldier. 1-56006-484-6. 96p. Taylor, Robert. Life in Khan_s Mongolia. 1-56006-348-3.  96 p. Streissguth, Thomas. Life in Communist Russia. 1-56006-378-5.  96p. Yancey, Diane. Life on the Pony Express. 1-56006-793-4.  108p. Kallen, Stuart A. Life in Tokyo. 1-56006-797-7.   96p. This fascinating new series focuses on ìpockets of human culture.î  Words of eyewitnesses add to the interest and authenticity.  Interesting reads as well as excellent additions to middle and high school history collections.       Joyce Valenza

WCW World Championship Wrestling: The Amazing Guide. London: Dorling Kindersley, 2001. 0-7894-7350-X. 48p. $12.95.  Gr.5+. This guide is full of facts about popular wrestlers.  From former NFL linebacker Goldberg to Nitro Girls, the browser will find out the different moves these performers favor, as well as their statistics.  This will be popular with your professional wrestling fans.                     Sandra Krieg

Weatherly, Myra.  William Marshal: Medieval Englandís Greatest Night.  Greensboro, NC: Morgan Reynolds, 2001.  1883846-48-X. 112p. $20.95. Gr. 5-12. The story of William Marshall was originally an epic poem written so his ancestors would know of his bravery and honor.  At the age of 5 he was a hostage to King Stephen.  King Stephen ordered the child to be hanged and then later spared his life.  William went on to become a knight and fought in tournaments and wars, traveled to the Holy Lands, negotiated and witnessed the signing of the Magna Carta and served as Regent of England when Henry III was crowned king at the age of 9.  This short biography is interesting and will certainly be useful for students who are studying this era in English history.  William was a knight extraordinaire!  Weatherly also includes a genealogical chart, a glossary and a fairly substantial bibliography.  Historical Biography                               Peg Kleppinger

Weaver, Tom.  I Was a Monster Movie Maker: Conversations with 22 SF and Horror Filmmakers.  McFarland, 2001.  2001023432.  $38.50.   Gr. 9+. This volume will appeal to all classic movie fans, though they will likely be unfamiliar with the subjects of most of these 22 interviews.   Actors and directors discuss their experiences in creating such films as Star Wars, Tarzan, and Dracula. Filled with enough gossip, photos, and behind-the-scenes secrets to keep kids reading.   Joyce Valenza

Wertheim, L. Jon. Venus Envy: A Sensational Season Inside the Womenís Tennis Tour. New York: HarperCollins.  0-06-019774-9.  225p.  $25.00.  Gr. 9-12. Wertheimer, a senior writer for Sports Illustrated and tennis columnist for cnnsi.com, gives you the stories behind the stories of the young brash ambitious and often sexy players on the Womenís Tennis Association 2000 tour. The cast includes Anna Kournikova, Lindsay Davenport, Melanie Hingis, Mary Pierce, Monica Seles, Rossana de los Rios, and sisters Serena and Venus Williams.  Lacking footnotes, endnotes, and an index, this is purely recreational reading.                          Eleanor Howe

Whitelaw, Nancy.  The Shot Heard Round the World: The Battles of Lexington and Concord.  Greensboro, NC: Morgan Reynolds, 2001. $20.95. 112p. 1883846-75-7. Gr. 4-8. Ms. Whitelaw begins the story of the American Revolution with the Boston Massacre in 1770. Each chapter adds to the historical account of the war.  There is a description of the Boston Massacre trial and John Adams part in the trial.  The Boston Tea Party is reviewed and Paul Revereís heroic ride is also included in this historical review.  The story focuses on just a few of the prominent figuresóJohn Adams, Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and Paul Revere. The reader isnít overwhelmed with details.  This short history will provide students with additional information on the time period.  It is a very readable account of the beginning of the war and students will find that the author even debunks a few legends!  Part of a four volume series covering the first battles of American wars.              History      Peg Kleppinger  also Sandra Krieg

Wilson, Duff.  Fateful Harvest : The True Story of a Small Town, A Global Industry and a Toxic Secret.  New York: HarperCollins, 2002.   0-06-019369-7  322p. $26.  Gr. 10-adult.  Duff Wilson was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize for his newspaper series that was the foundation for this book.  The book is about a small farming community in Washington that realized that the hazardous wastes were being spread as fertilizer to grow crops that we later consumed.  Patty Martin, who lost her father to kidney cancer, began to look at environmental causes for the cancer and found that tainted fertilizer contained arsenic and cadmium, lead and dioxins.  It was destroying crops, sickening animals and endangering the food supply.  Patty Martin and Duff Wilson began to question the EPA about the chemicals and this turned into an investigation that would rock the small town of Quincy as they tried to learn what had happened to the fertilizers.  Wilson later disclosed that polluting industries saved millions of dollars by sending hazardous wastes to fertilizer makers who then turned the chemicals into fertilizers and sold them to farmers. Many compare Ms. Martinís efforts to Erin Brockovich.   It is frightening account of an environmental hazard that effects everyone. Environmental Hazards               Peg Kleppinger

Women Who Win Series:  Paprocki, Sherry Beck.  Michelle Kwan.  Philadelphia: Chelsea House, 2001.  0-7910-5792-5. 64p. $20. Gr. 5-8. Kelley, Brent.  Lisa Leslie.  Philadelphia: Chelsea House, 2001.  0-7910-5794-1. 64p.  $20. Gr. 5-8. These high interest, low level biographies of popular sports figures, are in demand throughout the school year.  Each covers the subjects' history, including their childhood, and personal life as they rose to fame and reached their goals.  Each volume includes a chronology of important events in the athlete's life, further reading, information about the author, and an index.  Michelle Stone 

Wormser, Richard.  Defending the Accused: Stories From the Courtroom.  New York: Franklin Watts, 2001. 0-531-11378-7.  $24.00 Gr 9-12. The book gives a clear vision of what defense lawyers do, and why they do it even if they know their client is guilty. The book focuses on six real cases and what happened behind the scenes. Great addition for the government class.   Criminal Law                   Margaret Goodlin

Wukovits, John F.  The Encyclopedia of the Winter Olympics. New York: Franklin Watts, 2001.  0-531-11885-1. 160 p.  $27.00.  Gr. 5-9. Presents a history of the Winter Olympic games, origins of the various sports, game strategies, equipment information, etc.  Also included are a few biographies of some of the athletes who have competed in the Olympics.  Very informative and a good reference.  Bibliography and index.   Susan Krenicky

Zeinert, Karen.  Tragic Prelude: Bleeding Kansas.  North Haven, Connecticut: Linnet Books, 2001. 0-208-02446-8. 105p. $25.00. Gr. 6-12.  Should Kansas become a free state or a slave state is the question that faces the citizens of the newly formed territory of Kansas.  The story of this undeclared war is told through a well-written narrative including diaries and letters from the characters involved in the struggle. The political intrigue is fascinating.  Includes list of characters, archived photos time line, bibliography, and index.                    Judy High, Arcadia University

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Committee Members:

Jeannie Bellavance, Gwynedd-Mercy Academy, Elementary Div.                Susan Krenicky, Phoenixville Area Middle School

Pat Bender, Upper School Librarian, The Shipley School                             Sandra Krieg, The Haverford School

Candace Blessing, Ephrata High School Media Center                               Joan Marstiller, Pittsburgh, PA

Nancy Chrismer, Juniata High School Library                                                Leslie Mastronardo, Penn Manor High School

Donna Darmofal, Scranton Preparatory School                                             Elizabeth McChesney, Greenville High School

Margaret Goodlin, Plymouth Whitemarsh High School                                Susan Mowery, Upper Dublin High School

Karen Hornberger, Palisades High School                                                    Pat Naismith, Springfield High School (Del Co)

Eleanor Howe, Pine-Richland High School Library                                       Constance Roupp, Harlan Rowe Middle School    

Pamela Kavanaugh, Grier School                                                                     Michelle Stone, Sandy Run Middle School        

Margaret Kleppinger, Hatboro-Horsham High School                                 Joyce Valenza, School District, Springfield Township

Rosanne Zajko, Ancillae-Assumpta Academy

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