Nightime Cabin Thief A Mystery About Light Summer Camp Scien

These books are a fun way to teach basic science, and they are particularly good for readers who struggle with gleaning information from wordy textbooks. In the first title, twins Alex and Angie lose some of their enthusiasm for Camp Dakota when they arrive to find it hidden behind a thick veil of fog. Along with some new friends, they discover that there is a mystery to be solved. A series of science-related clues leads them to discover the truth about the Fog Zombie. Basic science principles are scattered throughout the story, supported by bubbles of information to give further explanation. The kids learn about the buoyancy of salt water, evaporation and condensation, and more. The same gang is back in Cabin Thief. Obnoxious Carly is accusing one of the other campers of stealing an important medal from her cabin. As other things start disappearing, the kids are determined to find the culprit. Once again, scientific know-how helps solve the case (along with an awesome art project). A counselor cleverly teaches the kids about light refraction by sharing a Native American legend. They also learn about reflections and mirrors as well as shadows. Imagine a Scooby-Doo episode with Velma in charge and you get the feel for this brainy way to solve a mystery. Bonuses at the end of each volume include simple science experiments and a synopsis of the principles related to the mystery. --School Library Journal

-- "Journal"

A summer camp in the wilderness is the setting for these science-based full-color graphic novels. Each book focuses on one concept, and involves campers in a mystery they are able to solve with the help of scientific knowledge. Informational bubbles are strategically placed throughout, and science demonstrations and explanations are interspersed. Sometimes a demonstration or explanation is needed to help solve the mystery, and other times a demonstration is part of a camp activity. The books each contain experiments for readers to try, providing further understanding of the science and the story. Special features include a glossary of 'Mysterious Words' and a page reviewing the science facts used to solve the mystery. Positioning science in real-life situations, even if a bit didactic at times, is a strong point of this series. --Library Media Connection

-- "Journal"