Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Nonfiction Wednesday - Secrets of Air

Secrets of Air written by Mi-ae Lee and illustrated by Hae-ryun Jeong brings a challenging topic to life for early scientists.   The front cover has an interesting tidbit of information.  The editor is listed with the author and illustrator.  It's none other than Joy Cowley.  I love Joy Cowley books for emerging readers and this book doesn't disappoint.

The illustrations are a full page and a third of a two page spread.  The first two thirds of the page on the left is where the text is placed throughout the book.  I just enjoyed this layout and knowing where to find the text as I read each page.  Big concepts about air are shared with the reader in mind.  An air fact drives the page but the author carefully makes connections to help the reader process the information.

Here's an example; Air is close to the earth, above the pointed roof and between the trees.

Then on the same page; When we go to the top of a high mountain, there is less air so it is harder to breathe.  

Students will think about the movement of air, warm and cool air, sound waves being carried, oxygen, the weight of air, and air being invisible.  So many important ideas for early scientists.  

Thank you Alyson at Kid Lit Frenzy for encouraging us to share nonfiction picture books all year on Wednesdays.  

4 comments:

  1. This does sound good, Mandy. I will recommend it to our librarian. I don't know, but suspect there aren't too many books about air for younger readers. Thanks! And FYI-easy to find this but your URL on Aly's site is for an earlier week.

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  2. These are great types of nonfiction picture books that can be read-aloud. Thanks for sharing!

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  3. I have not heard of this one! Not only does it sound interesting, it sounds like it has a different kind of organization. Love pointing those writing concepts out to teachers and students, as well!

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  4. I haven't heard of this book either, but it looks fascinating. I think it's great to share nonfiction with emerging readers - they're so full of curiosity, so why not harness that curiosity to get them hooked on reading? :) Thanks for sharing!!

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