Your Brain Is Amazing: How the Human Mind Works

Gr 3-7--This comprehensive look at how the brain functions will keep readers mesmerized as they uncover a multitude of fascinating facts: "The brain travels at speeds of up to 268 miles (432 kilometers) per hour. This is even faster than Formula 1 race cars," and "[it ]has as many connections between neurons as there are stars in a galaxy." There is also some shocking information: if one's brain is seriously injured, you can "cease to be you." The book includes an in-depth look at the different parts of the brain and how they function. Each lobe warrants a spread explaining what part of reasoning, emotions, or movement is controlled by that area, followed by activities for readers to use the part of the brain that is being described. The sections also explain the possible effects if that part of the brain is hurt. Readers are given ideas for improving their mood through exercise, laughing, and hugging, with explanations for how these activities are connected to the brain. There are also lots of great tips on how to improve memory and deal with emotions. Clever illustrations fill the pages and help explain the dense information. For example, there is a game board diagram that walks readers through how one child uses executive functions to complete a homework task. There is a lot to unpack here, and readers will get the most out of this book by tackling it in stages to fully absorb the information. VERDICT Tweens will leave with a greater understanding of how their brain works and the importance of keeping it healthy.--Heidi Dechief