Building Sunshades

The enormous, full-bleed photos of a child concentrating on each structure and then reacting with genuine surprise during the experimentation process provide a level of authenticity and believability in this series. Each book starts with a simple, clear definition of the structure, with a cursory attempt at explaining its use. After assembling materials, readers are propelled straight into creation on page eight. Using only a beginning reader word count and vocabulary, each book guides readers through the project. Each step prompts open-ended observation, reflection, and questions. The series also features an attractive design with large type, lots of white space, and graphics in bold, bright colors. VERDICT Appealing photos draw readers into projects that teach new vocabulary and concepts via real-world demonstration.--Paula Willey, Enoch Pratt Free Library "School Library Journal"