I'm not a big poetry reader. It's simply not my first choice when I look for a new book to read. But THIS book by Bobbi Katz had me absolutely enthralled! Katz has researched and put to verse the experiences of explorers dating back to Adam and Eve ("The First Explorers"), all the way up to the roving robots, Spirit and Opportunity. The majority of poems are in 1st person, but many are from the point of view of someone who was with the explorer. For example, some of Genghis Khan's experiences are shared through "Jebe" and "Subed", two of Khan's commanders. Katz gives equal time to women as she does to men. We hear from well know female explorers, such as Sally Ride, and also from women who don't necessarily get credit for the exploration itself, but were present, nonetheless. For example, Florence Baker, wife of Sir Samuel Baker, who is known for his explorations to find the source of the Nile back in the mid 1800's, was right there by his side as he explored, but doesn't get much credit, except for Katz's poem! The poetry varies in lengths and styles and there are small illustrations throughout done by Carin Berger. Katz also includes short bio's at the end of the book, so if you want a little more information on Sylvia Earle, Egeria, Zheng He, or Robert Peary, (do you know any of those people or what they explored?) it's there. Pick up this book in the 800's in the nonfiction section of the Children's department. It's great and you'll love it!
Intermediate Mystery books are a gold mine. High-low books refer to titles that are of high interest to readers, but contain low level vocabulary. These titles are clever, action-packed, and have several books in the series to keep the mystery alive. These intermediate mystery books are the first in their series and are sure to appease any mystery loving reader. The Ghost Tree Written by Natasha Deen Illustrated by Lissy Marlin New York: Random House Children's Books, 2022. Intermediate. 95 pages. With a dash of paranormal mixed with mystery, this book introduces Asim, a Guyanese American fourth grader who moves to a new town. After a visit to a graveyard, an evil spirit is unleashed. Asim works with new friends, Rokshar and Max, to save their town. With scarily cool illustrations to accompany this text, this book is great for any amateur sleuths who love a touch of creepy. Detective Duck: The Case of the Strange Splash Written by Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver Illustrated by Dan San
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