Books in Blastoff Readers, Level 4: Children's Storytellers series

Screws are simple machines used for many different jobs. The concept of a screw is used in snow blowers, drills, and presses. Kids will learn how screws work and how they are used in complex machines.

A firefly is an insect that can make light by mixing chemicals inside its body! This book introduces children to light sources, light rays, and the scientific concept of reflection.

Your nose can smell thousands of different scents. Your nose works with your brain to accomplish the important act of smelling. Learn how smells make your food taste better, bring back memories, and even keep you from danger.

Cocker Spaniels were originally bred to perform a task called flushing. They fetch birds or other animals out of dense brush for hunters. Young readers will learn about the two main types of Cocker Spaniels, how they are used for hunting today, and why these energetic dogs make great family pets.

Wedges are simple machines used to split, lift, or hold an object in place. Children will discover how wedges perform jobs for people and how they make everyday life easier.

Levers are simple machines that make work easier. There are three different classes of levers. Students will learn what levers are, how the classes of levers differ, and how the construction of levers makes work easier.

Did you know that you don't remember all the sounds you hear in a day? Your brain lets you know what sounds are important to pay attention to. Students will discover how their ears allow them to hear loud noises, whispers, music, and many other sounds.

An electric eel is an ocean fish that makes and uses electricity to shock prey! Children will learn what electricity is and all about batteries, static, and electric currents.

Known as one of the friendliest breeds of dog, Golden Retrievers make great house pets. They are popular for their ability to get along with people and are thus often used in roles that assist people. Kids will learn more about these smart, amiable dogs in this introduction to Golden Retrievers.

The title of Lemony Snicket's most famous collection, A Series of Unfortunate Events, is far from a fitting description of the author's life. Snicket has been fortunate enough to sell more than 60 million copies of his books worldwide! This life story of one zany writer will amuse curious readers.

Fireworks are made of chemicals that turn colors when they burn. All colors are reflected light. This book introduces young readers to color and explains how animals and people use color.

Nikki Grimes is a proud Coretta Scott King Award winner. She has always been intentional about focusing her novels and poetry on the experiences of African Americans just like her. Young readers will get to know a writer who cares about their ability to relate as much as their ability to read.