FICTION

Mazie’s Amazing Machines

by Sheryl Haft (text) & illus. by Jeremy Holmes
Penguin/Nancy Paulsen. Sept. 2023. 40p. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9780399547867.
COPY ISBN
Gr 2-5–Dive into simple machines, shenanigans, and family with this STEM-based picture book about a young girl named Mazie who loves to try to engineer her family’s problems away. While her inventions aren’t always the perfect solution she sought, her optimism and the support of her family throughout provide an uplifting, science-specific accompaniment to other popular picture books such as those in the “Questioneers” series. The stamped and graphite-based illustrations are reminiscent of 2010s cartoon series and provide a welcoming flatness that allows young readers to slip into each panel and action-driven step with Mazie.
VERDICT While the flow of the text is not particularly dynamic, the STEM tie-ins and breakdown of simple machines in the back matter make this a good choice for classroom activities and for readers who love unpacking the secret science woven into illustrations.
Reviewed by Aryssa Damron , Dec 22, 2023

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

BLOGS

Holiday Gift Guide: Six Inclusive MG Fantasies, a guest post by Marieke Nijkamp
by Amanda MacGregor
BOOKS

Gracie Under the Waves
by Park, Linda Sue
BOOKS

Make My Wish Come True
by Lippincott, Rachael & Alyson Derrick
BOOKS

My Weird School Special: Hip, Hip, Hooray! Every Day Is a Holiday!
by Gutman, Dan
BOOKS

Ramadan on Rahma Road: A Recipe Storybook
by Gutta, Razeena Omar & Faaiza Osman
BOOKS

Big Changes for Plum!
by Phelan, Matt
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?