The Oxford Children's Book of Science [Hardcover]

Charles Taylor (Author), Stephen Pople (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 30, 1996 | Age Level: 10 and up

Stunning photographs and evocative, full-color drawings combine with the lively and easily accessible narrative of The Oxford Children's Book of Science to take children on an unforgettable tour through a mysterious world of exploration, knowledge, and discovery. From lightning to lasers and from dandelions to DNA, this inviting book travels through every area of science, explaining simply and entertainingly the major processes, forces and structures that shape the world of nature. Starting with the basics and moving on to challenging ideas from bacteria to the Milky Way, Charles Taylor and Stephen Pople tie every scientific concept to everyday issues children can relate to. While describing how a hologram is created, for example, the authors trick their readers into a full-fledged explanation of how light is produced and disseminated; rock concerts and a soccer ball are used as examples in discussions of electronics and airflow.
The Oxford Children's Book of Science is a treat for browsers, and the glossary of key scientific terms and the alphabetical index are ideal research and study tools. This authoritative, lavishly illustrated, and accessible volume will find a welcome place in any home or school.

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review

The world of science can seem difficult and overwhelming to children (and adults, too!), but this excellent book from Oxford University Press is a great start for budding scientists. The attractive, dynamic volume is divided into 22 thematic areas, including the forces of nature, gravity, cells and biology, sounds and music, heat, energy, and machines. In the chapter on the forces of nature, for example, young readers will learn about magnetism, electrical forces, fission and fusion, gravity, and space orbits. Every page is splashed with bright, interesting photographs, charts, maps, diagrams, and graphs. Vibrant visual treats include breathtaking photographs of a huge snowflake, the Eiffel Tower at night, and lightning streaking across a dark sky. The book ends with a glossary of important terms and a helpful index. A fine resource for the scientifically inclined of all ages and an absorbing, useful reference book for students in the fourth through eighth grades. (Ages 9 to 12)

From School Library Journal

Grade 6-9?A single-volume, topically arranged look at the world of science that provides readers with enough information to gain both insight and comprehension. Especially well done is the section on visual perception, color theory, and the concepts of light and image. After first explaining these ideas, the authors then relate the role played by color in plants and animals and its role in camouflage. Even formidable subjects such as DNA structure and organic/inorganic chemical compounds are explained in basic, yet never overly simplistic, chapters. The excellent illustrations are an additional strength here. Through both full-color photographs and diagrams, readers are presented with clear images that are well integrated within the text. Unfortunately, the material is not always easy to access. The index is disappointingly brief, and no see-references are provided. Also, the use of the word "Children's" in the title is somewhat misleading, and may put off middle-school and junior-high readers.?Anita Palladino, Finkelstein Memorial Library, Spring Valley, NY
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 10 and up
  
• Hardcover: 192 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA (May 30, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0195211650
• ISBN-13: 978-0195211658
• Product Dimensions: 10.8 x 8.3 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,293,072 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

41 of 41 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A wonderful gift for inquisitive children, November 28, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: The Oxford Children's Book of Science (Hardcover)

When I received the Oxford Book of Science, my first impression was that, though beautifully produced and illustrated, it would be too demanding for children in the 9-12 age group. I was wrong. My nine-year old son has been avidly reading this book for weeks, along with his copy of The New Way Things Work. Unlike, say, the also excellent DK Science Encyclopedia, which presents scientific concepts in short, easily digestible sections, The Oxford Book of Science takes the reader on a tour of the physical world through 22 chapters covering broad topics such as images, sounds, energy, and the human body. The authors explain scientific principles in a very accessible style, using many fascinating examples and illustrations. Definitely recommended for budding scientists grades 4 and up.