Science Around the World

Christy Conte is a member of the Parents Advisory Committee at the
YMCA’s Parent and Child Enrichment Centre and a journalist.

As in Everyday Science and Silly Science, two other science books by
Levine and Johnstone, Science Around the World attempts to demystify the
world of science. The emphasis here is on the contributions made by
scientists from 10 countries around the world. Each chapter of the book
focuses on a particular country, featuring a quick overview of that
country’s scientific achievements, an experiment or two, and a useful
“de-briefing” section. Interesting science facts are interspersed
throughout. Illustrations are both humorous and illuminating. Unusual
words are highlighted and included in a glossary at the back of the
book.

The book’s multidisciplinary approach makes it useful in a variety of
ways. The authors’ emphasis on the contributions of women to science
makes it a good choice for parents and educators who want to motivate
girls to pursue careers in science. Their emphasis on history and
culture makes it a valuable resource for social studies or geography.
Finally, in addition to German, American, and Canadian scientific
discoveries, they include amazing, though less well-known, discoveries
by Mayans and Australians.

Fascinating facts, engaging text, and fun experiments make Science
Around the World a fine choice for home, school, and public libraries.
Recommended.