From School Library Journal
Grade 5-9–This clearly written biography begins with a summary of astronomical ideas over the centuries and follows with Copernicus's contributions to this body of knowledge through his development of the scientific method to validate the heliocentric theory. The book includes the forces that impacted the astronomer's life and his work, such as his appointment as canon, or administrator, of the Ermeland Diocese in Frombork, Poland, which guaranteed him a residence and an income for life; the Catholic Church and its support of the geocentric theory; the effects of the Reformation and the beginning of the Age of Exploration. The author emphasizes Copernicus's contributions to science, including the separation of astronomy from astrology, the realization that the laws of science do not always coincide with what can be seen, and his influence on astronomers who followed him like Kepler and Galileo. Black-and-white and full-color photos and reproductions add interest. Catherine M. Andronik's
Copernicus: Founder of Modern Astronomy (Enslow, 2002) covers much of the same information with the addition of activities to demonstrate Copernicus's astronomical findings. Both books are suitable choices for libraries supporting strong science curricula.
–Ann Joslin, formerly at Erie County Public Library, PA Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Review
"If you're looking for student friendly scientific biographies, look no further. This series delivers vital biographical information while focusing on scientific principles and applications. Each volume contains a table of contents, chronology, glossary, short list books, index, and Web sites for additional references. A full-sized photograph of the scientist in a plasticized cover attracts readers and the heavy, glossy paper is easy on the eye. The layout offers plenty of white space and interesting juxtaposing of text with illustrations. Text headings and subdivisions are clearly marked. The illustrations are outstanding. Photographs, drawings, and other illustrations were well documented with short narrative explanations. Students looking for report materials will find these an excellent choice. All in all, it's a fine purchase for middle schoolers. Recommended."
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The Book Report (March/April 2002) (
Book Report 20020201)
"Illustrations, photographs, and good writing make this book a fun and interesting read."
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Science Scope (April 2002) (
Science Scope 20020201)
"These high-quality biographies provide in-depth looks at the background and education of the scientists...Solid additions for science assignments and reports."
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School Library Journal (Febraury 2002) (
School Library Journal 20020127)
"Well-selected illustrations offer a broad picture of persons and places that figured prominently both in Pasteur's life and in the consequence of his research."
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Science Books & Film (January-Febraury 2002) (
Science Books & Films 20020101)
"An even, straightforward rhythm that moves at a pace quick enough to hold the attention of juvenile readers. If all the books in the
Giants of Science series are as informative and well-written as this one...they indeed represent an outstanding contribution to the field of children's literature."
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The Anniston Star (January 2002) (
The Anniston Star 20011101)
"James Watt, a fast-moving, well-illustrated biography of the determined British inventor, would be a great complement to a middle level history of science unit."
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National Science Teachers Association (January 2002) (
National Science Teachers Assn. 20020401)
"Recommended for elementary and middle school students. The title provides young readers with an in-depth look at the legendary Marconi who at a young age sought milestones in the study of the wireless. This book is staightforward and easy to read. The cover is attractive and the pictures along with the easy to read text provide information that sustains the reader's attention. Information can be correlated with the social studies curriculum. This book would be a great resource for elementary and middle school students. A welcome addition to most library collections."
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Tri-State Young Adult Book Review Committee (November 2001) (
Tri State Young Adult Book Review Committee 20050601)
"This clearly written biography begins with a summary of astronomical ideas over the centuries. Black and white and full-color photos add interest."
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School Library Journal, June 2005 (
School Library Journal 20020101)
"These high quality biographies provide in-depth looks at the background and education of the scientists... Solid additions for science assignments and reports."
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School Library Journal (February 2002) (
School Library Journal 20011101)
"An even, straightforward rhythm that moves at a pace quick enough to hold the attention of juvenile readers... If all the books in the ?Giants of Science? series are as informative and well written as this one... they indeed represent an outstanding contribution to the field of children?s literature."
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The Anniston Star (January 2002) (
The Anniston Star )
"This book is straightforward and easy to read. The cover is attractive and the pictures along with the easy to read text provide information that sustains the reader?s attention. Information can be correlated with the social studies curriculum. This book would be a great resource for elementary and middle school students. A welcome addition to most library collections."
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Tri State Young Adult Book Review Committee (November 2001) (
UNKNOWN )
