(Preschool, Primary) Here's science for the very young about a topic that always catches their interest: themselves. Thirteen short sentences describe skin ("Skin can come in different colors") in all its glory. Additional facts appear in smaller print ("Skin color comes from a pigment called melanin. The more melanin you have, the darker your skin") on the same pages with the main idea sentences. Photographs of people, outlined in white and reproduced on brightly colored pages, serve as diagrams for important elements. For example, one sentence states that skin grows and stretches. A photograph of a pregnant woman, with an arrow pointing to her very round belly, shows where the baby resides. Adult readers may have to clarify a few oversimplifications (such as what and where pores are), but exuberant double-page spreads encourage looking and talking. A concluding spread lists questions, ideas, and experiments such as "Does a feather feel the same on your nose as on your elbow?" spurring youngsters to think about the ideas and concepts mentioned and beginning the process of scientific inquiry.From HORN BOOK, (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Gr 1-2-This book will pique children's curiosity, especially when they "zigzag through" the unanswered questions in the back. The large text is easy to read; adults will need to assist with the additional facts in a smaller font. Color photographs and text explain that skin comes in different colors, has different features, heals itself while protecting us from bacteria, and stretches to accommodate pregnancy. The illustrations depict people of different ages and ethnicities. This title should help young readers come to a better understanding of their bodies.-Sandra Welzenbach, Villarreal Elementary School, San Antonio, TX (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.