Adler, David A. Things That Float and Things That Don’t.

Adler, David A.   Things That Float and Things That Don’t.  Holiday House  2013  unp      ISBN 978-0-8234-2862-5    elem (Grades 1-4)      Hardback    E-BN  Science

With illustrations by Anna Raff showing children engaging in scientific experiments while wearing smiles, along with visually descriptive charts and weights, this book will engage the young scientist as well as those who ponder why some things float and others don’t.  Terms such as “cubic foot”, “density”, “displace” and “dissolve” are highlighted in the text with definitions embedded within sentences. Explanations are clear and concise, with real-life examples and safe science experiments that can be completed by children with minimal adult help.  This book presents a fantastic way to introduce readers to the theories of hydrostatics and buoyancy, regardless of the age of the reader.  It is strongly recommended for all elementary school library collections or as a gift for budding scientists.     

Summary: Easily comprehensible description and explanation of buoyancy, density, hydrostatics and displacement. Using readily available household items, young people can see and experience for themselves why some things float and other do not.                                                              --Lois McNicol