Funky Fungi | Chicago Review Press

By Cindy Blobaum

Trade Paper

Published Aug 2005

From butterflies and beetles to crickets and katydids, these experiments, art projects, and games will bring out the entomologist in every kid. Activities include collecting and sketching insects, making a terrarium for observation, raising mealworms, using math to measure bug strength, gardening to attract butterflies and other insects, and making an insect amplifier. A unique insect board game helps kids learn fascinating bug facts while they play. Sidebars offer a look into the world of professional entomology, as well as gross facts about insects that will provide great playground trivia, including the USDA's guidelines for allowable insect parts per cup of food. Kids will learn that science is not just something to read about, but something they can observe and study in the world around them.

Insectigations ›

By Cindy Blobaum

PDF

Published Nov 2005

From butterflies and beetles to crickets and katydids, these experiments, art projects, and games will bring out the entomologist in every kid. Activities include collecting and sketching insects, making a terrarium for observation, raising mealworms, using math to measure bug strength, gardening to attract butterflies and other insects, and making an insect amplifier. A unique insect board game helps kids learn fascinating bug facts while they play. Sidebars offer a look into the world of professional entomology, as well as gross facts about insects that will provide great playground trivia, including the USDA's guidelines for allowable insect parts per cup of food. Kids will learn that science is not just something to read about, but something they can observe and study in the world around them.

Insectigations ›

By Cindy Blobaum

EPUB

Published Nov 2005

From butterflies and beetles to crickets and katydids, these experiments, art projects, and games will bring out the entomologist in every kid. Activities include collecting and sketching insects, making a terrarium for observation, raising mealworms, using math to measure bug strength, gardening to attract butterflies and other insects, and making an insect amplifier. A unique insect board game helps kids learn fascinating bug facts while they play. Sidebars offer a look into the world of professional entomology, as well as gross facts about insects that will provide great playground trivia, including the USDA's guidelines for allowable insect parts per cup of food. Kids will learn that science is not just something to read about, but something they can observe and study in the world around them.

Insectigations ›

By Cindy Blobaum

Mobipocket

Published Nov 2005

From butterflies and beetles to crickets and katydids, these experiments, art projects, and games will bring out the entomologist in every kid. Activities include collecting and sketching insects, making a terrarium for observation, raising mealworms, using math to measure bug strength, gardening to attract butterflies and other insects, and making an insect amplifier. A unique insect board game helps kids learn fascinating bug facts while they play. Sidebars offer a look into the world of professional entomology, as well as gross facts about insects that will provide great playground trivia, including the USDA's guidelines for allowable insect parts per cup of food. Kids will learn that science is not just something to read about, but something they can observe and study in the world around them.

Awesome Snake Science! ›

By Cindy Blobaum

Trade Paper

Published Jul 2012

From cobras and copperheads to pythons and boas, all types of snakes are covered in this book of 40 science experiments, art projects, and games that helps budding herpetologists gain a greater appreciation for these slithering reptiles. Activities include making foldable fangs to learn how snakes' teeth and jaws work together; simulating cytotoxic snake venom while making a tasty snack using an everyday enzyme found in pineapple; and mimicking the sound a rattlesnake makes by using a rubber band, a paper clip, and an envelope. Engaging, simple, and safe experiments teach kids about the biology of snakes, such as how they use their tongues and nostrils to detect smells, how they are cold-blooded and sensitive to subtle changes in temperature, and how they can detect the slightest vibrations or tremors. Kids do not need a snake for any of the activities and will delight in all the strange snake facts and gross-out projects such as Snake Stink—where they create their own signature stink and test how well it repels potential predators.

Awesome Snake Science! ›

By Cindy Blobaum

PDF

Published Jul 2012

From cobras and copperheads to pythons and boas, all types of snakes are covered in this book of 40 science experiments, art projects, and games that helps budding herpetologists gain a greater appreciation for these slithering reptiles. Activities include making foldable fangs to learn how snakes' teeth and jaws work together; simulating cytotoxic snake venom while making a tasty snack using an everyday enzyme found in pineapple; and mimicking the sound a rattlesnake makes by using a rubber band, a paper clip, and an envelope. Engaging, simple, and safe experiments teach kids about the biology of snakes, such as how they use their tongues and nostrils to detect smells, how they are cold-blooded and sensitive to subtle changes in temperature, and how they can detect the slightest vibrations or tremors. Kids do not need a snake for any of the activities and will delight in all the strange snake facts and gross-out projects such as Snake Stink—where they create their own signature stink and test how well it repels potential predators.

Awesome Snake Science! ›

By Cindy Blobaum

Mobipocket

Published Jul 2012

From cobras and copperheads to pythons and boas, all types of snakes are covered in this book of 40 science experiments, art projects, and games that helps budding herpetologists gain a greater appreciation for these slithering reptiles. Activities include making foldable fangs to learn how snakes' teeth and jaws work together; simulating cytotoxic snake venom while making a tasty snack using an everyday enzyme found in pineapple; and mimicking the sound a rattlesnake makes by using a rubber band, a paper clip, and an envelope. Engaging, simple, and safe experiments teach kids about the biology of snakes, such as how they use their tongues and nostrils to detect smells, how they are cold-blooded and sensitive to subtle changes in temperature, and how they can detect the slightest vibrations or tremors. Kids do not need a snake for any of the activities and will delight in all the strange snake facts and gross-out projects such as Snake Stink—where they create their own signature stink and test how well it repels potential predators.

Awesome Snake Science! ›

By Cindy Blobaum

EPUB

Published Jul 2012

From cobras and copperheads to pythons and boas, all types of snakes are covered in this book of 40 science experiments, art projects, and games that helps budding herpetologists gain a greater appreciation for these slithering reptiles. Activities include making foldable fangs to learn how snakes' teeth and jaws work together; simulating cytotoxic snake venom while making a tasty snack using an everyday enzyme found in pineapple; and mimicking the sound a rattlesnake makes by using a rubber band, a paper clip, and an envelope. Engaging, simple, and safe experiments teach kids about the biology of snakes, such as how they use their tongues and nostrils to detect smells, how they are cold-blooded and sensitive to subtle changes in temperature, and how they can detect the slightest vibrations or tremors. Kids do not need a snake for any of the activities and will delight in all the strange snake facts and gross-out projects such as Snake Stink—where they create their own signature stink and test how well it repels potential predators.

Birdology ›

By Monica Russo, Photographs by Kevin Byron

Trade Paper

Published Jan 2015

AAAS Subaru SB&F Excellence in Science Finalist 2016
NSTA-CBC Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12 2016

An engaging book that encourages young nature enthusiasts to explore the world of birds

This generously illustrated, full-color book teaches kids that birds can be seen almost anywhere: in city parks and streets, zoos, farms, and backyards. Using “Try This,” “Look For,” and “Listen For” prompts, Birdology promotes independent observation and analysis, writing and drawing skills, and nature literacy. Kids observe the diversity of shapes, colors, patterns, and behavior of birds; listen for their songs and the clap of wings; make a juice-box feeder; plant flowers that attract hummingbirds; start a birding journal and sketchbook; and much more. Other topics that are presented in clear, kid-friendly prose include migration, nesting, food, territories, and conservation and preservation. Additional resources, such as a glossary, bird orders and scientific names, bird and wildlife organizations, and “Teacher Topics” to initiate classroom discussion and investigation, are also included.

Birdology ›

By Monica Russo, Photographs by Kevin Byron

EPUB

Published Jan 2015

AAAS Subaru SB&F Excellence in Science Finalist 2016
NSTA-CBC Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12 2016

An engaging book that encourages young nature enthusiasts to explore the world of birds

This generously illustrated, full-color book teaches kids that birds can be seen almost anywhere: in city parks and streets, zoos, farms, and backyards. Using “Try This,” “Look For,” and “Listen For” prompts, Birdology promotes independent observation and analysis, writing and drawing skills, and nature literacy. Kids observe the diversity of shapes, colors, patterns, and behavior of birds; listen for their songs and the clap of wings; make a juice-box feeder; plant flowers that attract hummingbirds; start a birding journal and sketchbook; and much more. Other topics that are presented in clear, kid-friendly prose include migration, nesting, food, territories, and conservation and preservation. Additional resources, such as a glossary, bird orders and scientific names, bird and wildlife organizations, and “Teacher Topics” to initiate classroom discussion and investigation, are also included.

Birdology ›

By Monica Russo, Photographs by Kevin Byron

Mobipocket

Published Jan 2015

AAAS Subaru SB&F Excellence in Science Finalist 2016
NSTA-CBC Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12 2016

An engaging book that encourages young nature enthusiasts to explore the world of birds

This generously illustrated, full-color book teaches kids that birds can be seen almost anywhere: in city parks and streets, zoos, farms, and backyards. Using “Try This,” “Look For,” and “Listen For” prompts, Birdology promotes independent observation and analysis, writing and drawing skills, and nature literacy. Kids observe the diversity of shapes, colors, patterns, and behavior of birds; listen for their songs and the clap of wings; make a juice-box feeder; plant flowers that attract hummingbirds; start a birding journal and sketchbook; and much more. Other topics that are presented in clear, kid-friendly prose include migration, nesting, food, territories, and conservation and preservation. Additional resources, such as a glossary, bird orders and scientific names, bird and wildlife organizations, and “Teacher Topics” to initiate classroom discussion and investigation, are also included.

Birdology ›

By Monica Russo, Photographs by Kevin Byron

PDF

Published Jan 2015

AAAS Subaru SB&F Excellence in Science Finalist 2016
NSTA-CBC Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12 2016

An engaging book that encourages young nature enthusiasts to explore the world of birds

This generously illustrated, full-color book teaches kids that birds can be seen almost anywhere: in city parks and streets, zoos, farms, and backyards. Using “Try This,” “Look For,” and “Listen For” prompts, Birdology promotes independent observation and analysis, writing and drawing skills, and nature literacy. Kids observe the diversity of shapes, colors, patterns, and behavior of birds; listen for their songs and the clap of wings; make a juice-box feeder; plant flowers that attract hummingbirds; start a birding journal and sketchbook; and much more. Other topics that are presented in clear, kid-friendly prose include migration, nesting, food, territories, and conservation and preservation. Additional resources, such as a glossary, bird orders and scientific names, bird and wildlife organizations, and “Teacher Topics” to initiate classroom discussion and investigation, are also included.

Treecology ›

By Monica Russo, Photographs by Kevin Byron

Trade Paper

Published Sep 2016

Discover the wonders of trees and forests with hands-on activities!

Treecology invites young naturalists (ages 7+) to explore the fascinating world of trees and forests through 30 engaging activities and observations. Learn about tree identification, forest ecology, and the vital role trees play in supporting wildlife. This guide fosters curiosity and appreciation for the natural world, encouraging kids to become environmental stewards.

Explore tree structures, families, and forest ecosystems through fun, kid-friendly discussions and full-color photos. This interactive resource promotes observation, analysis, and nature literacy skills. Activities include measuring tree trunks, pressing leaves, studying bark textures, and creating a forest logbook.

Identify different tree species and their unique characteristics
Observe wildlife habitats and learn about forest food chains
Conduct simple science experiments to understand tree growth and ecology

Treecology inspires a lifelong love of nature and empowers young readers to protect our planet's precious forests.

Treecology ›

By Monica Russo, Photographs by Kevin Byron

PDF

Published Sep 2016

Discover the wonders of trees and forests with hands-on activities!

Treecology invites young naturalists (ages 7+) to explore the fascinating world of trees and forests through 30 engaging activities and observations. Learn about tree identification, forest ecology, and the vital role trees play in supporting wildlife. This guide fosters curiosity and appreciation for the natural world, encouraging kids to become environmental stewards.

Explore tree structures, families, and forest ecosystems through fun, kid-friendly discussions and full-color photos. This interactive resource promotes observation, analysis, and nature literacy skills. Activities include measuring tree trunks, pressing leaves, studying bark textures, and creating a forest logbook.

Identify different tree species and their unique characteristics
Observe wildlife habitats and learn about forest food chains
Conduct simple science experiments to understand tree growth and ecology

Treecology inspires a lifelong love of nature and empowers young readers to protect our planet's precious forests.

Treecology ›

By Monica Russo, Photographs by Kevin Byron

Mobipocket

Published Sep 2016

Discover the wonders of trees and forests with hands-on activities!

Treecology invites young naturalists (ages 7+) to explore the fascinating world of trees and forests through 30 engaging activities and observations. Learn about tree identification, forest ecology, and the vital role trees play in supporting wildlife. This guide fosters curiosity and appreciation for the natural world, encouraging kids to become environmental stewards.

Explore tree structures, families, and forest ecosystems through fun, kid-friendly discussions and full-color photos. This interactive resource promotes observation, analysis, and nature literacy skills. Activities include measuring tree trunks, pressing leaves, studying bark textures, and creating a forest logbook.

Identify different tree species and their unique characteristics
Observe wildlife habitats and learn about forest food chains
Conduct simple science experiments to understand tree growth and ecology

Treecology inspires a lifelong love of nature and empowers young readers to protect our planet's precious forests.

Treecology ›

By Monica Russo, Photographs by Kevin Byron

EPUB

Published Sep 2016

Discover the wonders of trees and forests with hands-on activities!

Treecology invites young naturalists (ages 7+) to explore the fascinating world of trees and forests through 30 engaging activities and observations. Learn about tree identification, forest ecology, and the vital role trees play in supporting wildlife. This guide fosters curiosity and appreciation for the natural world, encouraging kids to become environmental stewards.

Explore tree structures, families, and forest ecosystems through fun, kid-friendly discussions and full-color photos. This interactive resource promotes observation, analysis, and nature literacy skills. Activities include measuring tree trunks, pressing leaves, studying bark textures, and creating a forest logbook.

Identify different tree species and their unique characteristics
Observe wildlife habitats and learn about forest food chains
Conduct simple science experiments to understand tree growth and ecology

Treecology inspires a lifelong love of nature and empowers young readers to protect our planet's precious forests.

Plantology ›

By Michael Elsohn Ross

Trade Paper

Published Feb 2019

Explore the fascinating world of plants with hands-on activities and observations! Plantology guides young nature enthusiasts on a journey into the world of plants and their vital role in our lives. This interactive resource presents clear, kid-friendly discussions of plant topics, from seeds and roots to flowers and fruits.

Naturalist Michael Elsohn Ross goes beyond plant basics, exploring common weeds, plant defense systems, seed dispersal, and everyday plant products. With 30 hands-on activities, kids develop observation, analysis, writing, drawing, math, science, and nature literacy skills. They'll keep a plant journal, sketch plant shapes, start a seed collection, and make tasty plant dishes.

Perfect for ages 7+, Plantology encourages readers to notice plants in parks, gardens, schools, and backyards. Discover the solutions plants offer, from sewage treatment to medical cures. Includes a glossary, plant organizations list, and teacher’s guide.

Plantology ›

By Michael Elsohn Ross

Mobipocket

Published Feb 2019

Explore the fascinating world of plants with hands-on activities and observations! Plantology guides young nature enthusiasts on a journey into the world of plants and their vital role in our lives. This interactive resource presents clear, kid-friendly discussions of plant topics, from seeds and roots to flowers and fruits.

Naturalist Michael Elsohn Ross goes beyond plant basics, exploring common weeds, plant defense systems, seed dispersal, and everyday plant products. With 30 hands-on activities, kids develop observation, analysis, writing, drawing, math, science, and nature literacy skills. They'll keep a plant journal, sketch plant shapes, start a seed collection, and make tasty plant dishes.

Perfect for ages 7+, Plantology encourages readers to notice plants in parks, gardens, schools, and backyards. Discover the solutions plants offer, from sewage treatment to medical cures. Includes a glossary, plant organizations list, and teacher’s guide.

Plantology ›

By Michael Elsohn Ross

PDF

Published Feb 2019

Explore the fascinating world of plants with hands-on activities and observations! Plantology guides young nature enthusiasts on a journey into the world of plants and their vital role in our lives. This interactive resource presents clear, kid-friendly discussions of plant topics, from seeds and roots to flowers and fruits.

Naturalist Michael Elsohn Ross goes beyond plant basics, exploring common weeds, plant defense systems, seed dispersal, and everyday plant products. With 30 hands-on activities, kids develop observation, analysis, writing, drawing, math, science, and nature literacy skills. They'll keep a plant journal, sketch plant shapes, start a seed collection, and make tasty plant dishes.

Perfect for ages 7+, Plantology encourages readers to notice plants in parks, gardens, schools, and backyards. Discover the solutions plants offer, from sewage treatment to medical cures. Includes a glossary, plant organizations list, and teacher’s guide.

Plantology ›

By Michael Elsohn Ross

EPUB

Published Feb 2019

Explore the fascinating world of plants with hands-on activities and observations! Plantology guides young nature enthusiasts on a journey into the world of plants and their vital role in our lives. This interactive resource presents clear, kid-friendly discussions of plant topics, from seeds and roots to flowers and fruits.

Naturalist Michael Elsohn Ross goes beyond plant basics, exploring common weeds, plant defense systems, seed dispersal, and everyday plant products. With 30 hands-on activities, kids develop observation, analysis, writing, drawing, math, science, and nature literacy skills. They'll keep a plant journal, sketch plant shapes, start a seed collection, and make tasty plant dishes.

Perfect for ages 7+, Plantology encourages readers to notice plants in parks, gardens, schools, and backyards. Discover the solutions plants offer, from sewage treatment to medical cures. Includes a glossary, plant organizations list, and teacher’s guide.

Amazing Amphibians ›

By Lisa J. Amstutz

EPUB

Published Jan 2020

Discover the amazing world of amphibians with hands-on activities and observations!

Amazing Amphibians explores frogs, salamanders, and caecilians, revealing their anatomy, behavior, and conservation needs. Young nature enthusiasts will dive into slime, venom, and hibernation through 30 engaging activities. Learn about egg-laying, metamorphosis, and ectothermy, along with fascinating facts about amphibian diets, habitats, and behaviors.

This resource includes a glossary of scientific terms, a guide to amphibian orders, and a teacher's guide for classroom discussions. Perfect for ages 7-9, this book fosters curiosity and responsibility towards wildlife. Explore the wonders of nature with this captivating guide!

Amazing Amphibians ›

By Lisa J. Amstutz

PDF

Published Jan 2020

Discover the amazing world of amphibians with hands-on activities and observations!

Amazing Amphibians explores frogs, salamanders, and caecilians, revealing their anatomy, behavior, and conservation needs. Young nature enthusiasts will dive into slime, venom, and hibernation through 30 engaging activities. Learn about egg-laying, metamorphosis, and ectothermy, along with fascinating facts about amphibian diets, habitats, and behaviors.

This resource includes a glossary of scientific terms, a guide to amphibian orders, and a teacher's guide for classroom discussions. Perfect for ages 7-9, this book fosters curiosity and responsibility towards wildlife. Explore the wonders of nature with this captivating guide!

Amazing Amphibians ›

By Lisa J. Amstutz

Mobipocket

Published Jan 2020

Discover the amazing world of amphibians with hands-on activities and observations!

Amazing Amphibians explores frogs, salamanders, and caecilians, revealing their anatomy, behavior, and conservation needs. Young nature enthusiasts will dive into slime, venom, and hibernation through 30 engaging activities. Learn about egg-laying, metamorphosis, and ectothermy, along with fascinating facts about amphibian diets, habitats, and behaviors.

This resource includes a glossary of scientific terms, a guide to amphibian orders, and a teacher's guide for classroom discussions. Perfect for ages 7-9, this book fosters curiosity and responsibility towards wildlife. Explore the wonders of nature with this captivating guide!

Amazing Amphibians ›

By Lisa J. Amstutz

Trade Paper

Published Jan 2020

Discover the amazing world of amphibians with hands-on activities and observations!

Amazing Amphibians explores frogs, salamanders, and caecilians, revealing their anatomy, behavior, and conservation needs. Young nature enthusiasts will dive into slime, venom, and hibernation through 30 engaging activities. Learn about egg-laying, metamorphosis, and ectothermy, along with fascinating facts about amphibian diets, habitats, and behaviors.

This resource includes a glossary of scientific terms, a guide to amphibian orders, and a teacher's guide for classroom discussions. Perfect for ages 7-9, this book fosters curiosity and responsibility towards wildlife. Explore the wonders of nature with this captivating guide!

Mammal Mania ›

By Lisa J. Amstutz

Trade Paper

Published Apr 2021

How big is a blue whale? Why does a sloth crawl from the safety of a tree to the ground once a week? How does a vampire bat feed? Young nature enthusiasts will find answers to these questions and learn all sorts of fascinating facts about mammals in this full-color, interactive book. Mammal Mania explores what makes mammals unique, as well as their anatomy, behavior, and conservation needs. Thirty hands-on activities promote observation and analysis, writing and drawing, math and science, and nature literacy skills. Readers will learn to build a squirrel feeder, write a putrid poem, make an animal tracking station, and much more. This useful resource includes a glossary of scientific terms, a list of mammal orders, and a teacher's guide to initiate classroom discussion.

Mammal Mania ›

By Lisa J. Amstutz

EPUB

Published Apr 2021

How big is a blue whale? Why does a sloth crawl from the safety of a tree to the ground once a week? How does a vampire bat feed? Young nature enthusiasts will find answers to these questions and learn all sorts of fascinating facts about mammals in this full-color, interactive book. Mammal Mania explores what makes mammals unique, as well as their anatomy, behavior, and conservation needs. Thirty hands-on activities promote observation and analysis, writing and drawing, math and science, and nature literacy skills. Readers will learn to build a squirrel feeder, write a putrid poem, make an animal tracking station, and much more. This useful resource includes a glossary of scientific terms, a list of mammal orders, and a teacher's guide to initiate classroom discussion.

Mammal Mania ›

By Lisa J. Amstutz

PDF

Published Apr 2021

How big is a blue whale? Why does a sloth crawl from the safety of a tree to the ground once a week? How does a vampire bat feed? Young nature enthusiasts will find answers to these questions and learn all sorts of fascinating facts about mammals in this full-color, interactive book. Mammal Mania explores what makes mammals unique, as well as their anatomy, behavior, and conservation needs. Thirty hands-on activities promote observation and analysis, writing and drawing, math and science, and nature literacy skills. Readers will learn to build a squirrel feeder, write a putrid poem, make an animal tracking station, and much more. This useful resource includes a glossary of scientific terms, a list of mammal orders, and a teacher's guide to initiate classroom discussion.

Mammal Mania ›

By Lisa J. Amstutz

Mobipocket

Published Apr 2021

How big is a blue whale? Why does a sloth crawl from the safety of a tree to the ground once a week? How does a vampire bat feed? Young nature enthusiasts will find answers to these questions and learn all sorts of fascinating facts about mammals in this full-color, interactive book. Mammal Mania explores what makes mammals unique, as well as their anatomy, behavior, and conservation needs. Thirty hands-on activities promote observation and analysis, writing and drawing, math and science, and nature literacy skills. Readers will learn to build a squirrel feeder, write a putrid poem, make an animal tracking station, and much more. This useful resource includes a glossary of scientific terms, a list of mammal orders, and a teacher's guide to initiate classroom discussion.

Funky Fungi ›

By Alisha Gabriel, By Sue Heavenrich

PDF

Published Jul 2022

2023 AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books Hands-On Science Book winner

Fungi are everywhere!

They live in the coldest corner of Antarctica and on hot, sandy desert dunes. They’re in the air you breathe and the food you eat. But fungi are more than pizza toppings.

They form partnerships with plants and help us clean up our planet through bioremediation. Some fungi eat our crops; others protect them. Some fungi cause diseases; others cure them. Some are bigger than you; others are so tiny you need a microscope to see them.

And now, people are finding ways to use fungi to make furniture, building materials, and even sneakers.

So grab your gear and let’s go find some Funky Fungi.

Funky Fungi ›

By Alisha Gabriel, By Sue Heavenrich

EPUB

Published Jul 2022

2023 AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books Hands-On Science Book winner

Fungi are everywhere!

They live in the coldest corner of Antarctica and on hot, sandy desert dunes. They’re in the air you breathe and the food you eat. But fungi are more than pizza toppings.

They form partnerships with plants and help us clean up our planet through bioremediation. Some fungi eat our crops; others protect them. Some fungi cause diseases; others cure them. Some are bigger than you; others are so tiny you need a microscope to see them.

And now, people are finding ways to use fungi to make furniture, building materials, and even sneakers.

So grab your gear and let’s go find some Funky Fungi.