Is It Real? The Loch Ness Monster

Gr 3-7–The always versatile Fleming guides kids on a quest to uncover the truth of the Loch Ness monster. Presenting the facts in an engaging format where readers are invited to examine the evidence as members of the fictitious Black Swan Scientific Investigation (BSSI) team, the Sibert-winning author details the many accounts of sightings and testimonials of people who have encountered the cryptid from Scotland’s famous loch since the 1930s. Instead of telling young people what to believe, Fleming prompts them with guiding questions and examples on how to implement the scientific method or a lawyer-style prosecution so that they can make their own decisions. Black-and-white photos and productions add even more interest and are cleverly presented as evidence. Asides and excerpts from the BSSI Handbook break down the difference between direct and circumstantial evidence and offer advice such as, “you don’t decide if something is true or not until you have all the facts. You never make assumptions.” The framing feels hokey and distracting at times, but the whole package comes together cohesively. Back matter includes a bibliography of primary and secondary sources and source notes. The engaging format, design, and conversational tone will draw in readers and inspire them to examine and question media and information in their studies and daily lives.