NONFICTION

Exploring the Elements: A Complete Guide to the Periodic Table

by Isabel Thomas (text) & illus. by Sara Gillingham
Phaidon. Nov. 2020. 224p. Tr $24.95. ISBN 9781838662318.
COPY ISBN
Gr 6-9–With accessible language by Thomas and colorful, delightfully clean and simple graphics rendered by Gillingham, this title takes readers on a tour of the periodic table. The text begins with the basics of what elements and compounds are and where they come from and then moves through an illustrated treatment of each element of the table. Elements are grouped by commonalities. For each element, one page is devoted to describing the element, its history in terms of significance to humans, and why it behaves the way it does. A second page depicts and details its forms and uses. The writing compellingly balances scientific language and sincere wonder.
VERDICT Thomas and Gillingham provide an approachable and fun resource, making this title a wonderful supplementary text for a middle school science class or a great independent read for a curious young chemist.
Reviewed by Mallory Weber, Convent of the Sacred Heart, NY , Nov 01, 2020

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