Water (Imagine This!)

Gr 3-5--Vibrant, lush, illustrations immediately engage readers in this sophisticated introduction to water and the water cycle. The pages are structured as single-, double- and triple-panel, full-bleed spreads that provide an expansive feel to the topic, appropriate given the importance of water to our planet. Although lacking chapters, headings, or an index, the information flows well. The book opens with water in each of its natural states (liquid, solid, gas). Large water drops with text appear on many of the pages along with larger blocks of information. Next, the work looks at global harvesting and preservation in places where fresh water is in short supply, such as India, Kenya, Peru, and Nevada. It then features water's relationship with plants through photosynthesis and transpiration. The last pages are devoted to water and humans. Human hydration goes beyond sweating to include temperature regulation, flexibility, detoxing, brain function, and mood. The book ends with preservation and access awareness. The final page offers ideas on how readers can help water reach everyone, one drop at a time. An author's note, resources list of excellent titles, and glossary extend the text. One caveat is that the information is much more advanced and dense than the picture book format implies. Younger readers will need vocabulary and concept support while the absence of formal headings and chapters will deter older readers doing research. VERDICT A visually beautiful introduction to water in our present world, this title might best be suited as a read-aloud introduction geared to inspiring discussion and brainstorming.--Elisabeth LeBris