From School Library Journal
Grade 2-5-Through readable text and dazzling illustrations, the Krupps explore this meteorological phenomenon. As in The Big Dipper and You (Morrow, 1999) and The Moon and You (Macmillan, 1993), the highly pictorial format belies a scientifically oriented text. Using Roy G. Biv (a leprechaunlike elf in yellow slicker, blue overalls, rainbow-colored boots, and with matching whiskers) as a helpmate, the author includes a brief assortment of global rainbow myths and legends as well as an explanation of the mechanics of the physics behind the glowing arc of colors. The clear text gives clues to searching for rainbows and rainbow colors in unlikely places, and instructs readers to make scientific observations when they occur. Isaac Newton's experiments with prisms are included, but earlier experiments by Theodoric of Freiburg are not; nor are ghostly moonbows, rare fogbows, and ground-hugging dewbows. Still, this is a brilliantly rainbow-hued, tightly focused investigation of these seemingly miraculous spectacles that inspire wonder and delight in all who view them. Aficionados should also check out Stephen Kramer's intriguing Theodoric's Rainbow (Scientific American, 1995).
Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
The Krupps offer a delightful picture-book study of rainbows without undercutting the magic or the beauty of the phenomenon. Roy G. Biv (his name is a mnemonic for the rainbow's colors--red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet), a gnomelike fellow with rainbow socks and a rainbow beard, helps guide youngsters through the facts. The Krupps mention rainbow stories from various cultures, from the rainbow bridge of the Viking Asgard to the rainbow serpent of the Australian Dreamtime. Isaac Newton's explication of the rainbow, the science behind double rainbows (ever notice that the order of the colors is reversed in the outer rainbow?), and the way to make a rainbow using a garden hose are just some of the intriguing tidbits the Krupps supply in engaging and effortless style. They also provide a handy checklist of questions eager students of rainbows may want to investigate.
GraceAnne A. DeCandidoCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
