Tell Me: Science and Inventions

This addition to the Tell Me series of compact reference guides explores four topics relating to science and inventions. Boccador offers questions and answers within each of the subject areas, which are marked by colorful tabs. A section about the Earth asks: “What is an island?” The answer immediately follows: “Some islands are pieces of land that the ocean has split off from a continent. Others are the tops of volcanoes that surfaced in the middle of the ocean.” In the section about space, readers learn about the expansion of the universe and dark matter, while in “Everyday Phenomena,” questions include “Why do people sweat?” and “What is an echo?” Boccador provides an accessible, information-packed volume enhanced by gentle cartoons and three pages of stickers. Ages 8–12. (Sept.)