Books in Nature's Mysteries series

Gemstones and snowflakes represent some of our most memorable and alluring interactions with crystals, but crystals form many different materials, come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, and can grow in several different ways. This inviting volume examines the science behind crystal formation, clearly explaining to an elementary audience the difference between the types of bonds that hold crystals together and elucidating the melting, freezing, and dissolution processes that yield crystalline structures. Readers are also guided through the process of growing their own crystals at home. Vocabulary, Think About It, and Compare and Contrast boxes round out the engaging narrative.

Whether they glimmer to attract prey, to ward off predators, or for another reason entirely, glowing organisms are some of the most mesmerizing wonders of nature. This stunning volume introduces elementary readers to bioluminescence and biofluorescence, using accessible language to explain how and why various organisms make their own light. Vibrant images allow readers to journey through woods haunted by fox fire, soar high with fireflies that punctuate a summer nights sky, and dive deep to view the myriad creatures that illuminate the oceans depths. Boxed text encourages critical thinking about Earths incredible biodiversity and the behaviors and chemistry of living things.

The fabled oasis in the desert mirage is just one example of the strange things that can happen when light hits the air in certain atmospheric conditions. This captivating volume takes a closer look at mirages and similar phenomena, explaining to elementary readers that there is much more to these natural optical illusions than meets, or doesnt meet, the eye. Topics covered include refraction, the difference between superior and inferior mirages, green flashes, and the famous Fata Morgana castle in the sky mirage. Vocabulary boxes identify key terms, while Think About It and Compare and Contrast questions prompt critical thinking about optics and light.

Auroras, the dancing lights that most often grace the night skies of the North and South Poles, look like magnificent kaleidoscopes of light and color to the naked eye. This absorbing volume breaks down this breathtaking phenomenon, using it to introduce elementary readers to the basics of magnetism and atmospheric science. The narrative carefully explains how the Earths poles and atmosphere affect solar wind and describes how similar dazzling displays are visible on other planets. Vivid images capture the wonder of the northern and southern lights, while boxed terms and guiding questions nurture a deeper curiosity about our atmosphere.

In ancient civilizations, people believed that eclipses represented omens of disaster. Today, total solar eclipses are regarded as rare and wondrous spectacles. The Great American Eclipse of 2017 sparked nationwide enthusiasm, and another total solar eclipse will occur across a swath of the United States in 2024. This volume investigates the science and history of eclipses, explaining the astronomical phenomena in accessible terms. Readers will learn about the celestial circumstances that cause eclipses and what to expect during an eclipse. Features such as "Think About It" sidebars encourage readers to apply what they have learned to answer open-ended questions.

In ancient civilizations, people believed that eclipses represented omens of disaster. Today, total solar eclipses are regarded as rare and wondrous spectacles. The Great American Eclipse of 2017 sparked nationwide enthusiasm, and another total solar eclipse will occur across a swath of the United States in 2024. This volume investigates the science and history of eclipses, explaining the astronomical phenomena in accessible terms. Readers will learn about the celestial circumstances that cause eclipses and what to expect during an eclipse. Features such as "Think About It" sidebars encourage readers to apply what they have learned to answer open-ended questions.

Perhaps Manhattan, like Christmas, is best seen through the eyes of a child. Gerry Porter provides both magical experiences for granddaughter Maddie when a SuperKrafts manager takes them to New York City for a huge crafts fair. They get to work on both making miniatures and solving crimes, the detecting duo’s favorite pastimes. All this, plus Rockefeller Center and Radio City, too! But a crafty murderer wants to make sure they don’t make it safely home again to California….