The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly

Set in Texas, 1899, this story stars Calpurnia, whose six siblings are boys. She would like to be one too. She is fascinated by science and the natural world. The traditional role of a girl does not appeal to her. In her cantankerous grandfather Callie finds a kindred soul. She learns that he has carried on a correspondence with Charles Darwin. When he finds a plant that he believes is a new species, they send it off to the Smithsonian for confirmation. Abundant references to Darwin's work are woven into the plot. The book is rich with interesting characters, information about the scientific method, and thoughts about the place of women in the society of the day.

The Mostly True Adventures of Homer P. Figg by Rodman Philbrick

Homer P. Figg is an orphan who will tell a tall tale at the drop of a hat. He goes off to save his under-age brother from having to serve in the Union army. Along the way he has adventures with a slave on the Underground Railroad, an outrageous con artist, and a harrowing encounter with a hot air surveillance balloon. The story, reminiscent of Sid Fleischman's historical novels, is humorous but still manages to convey the horrors of war. It will be great for middle school boys.

Falling Down the Page: A Book of List Poems, ed. by Georgia Heard

This cleverly designed long, narrow book contains excellent poem choices and a good introduction to the format of list poems. It will be inspirational for creative writing or even just for honing observational skills. Some of the poem titles: "Things to do if you are a pencil," "Book Time," listing places to read books, and "Under My Bed." All ages.

Scat By Carl Hiaasen

A biology teacher who vanishes during a field trip, a nefarious oil-drilling company, an endangered Florida panther, and a student with a reputation for arson make up this funny, convoluted adventure. It's an eco-mystery where the good guys win and the bad guys get their just deserts. Fun fiction with a message for middle schoolers.

Listen to the Wind: The Story of Dr Greg and Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and Susan L. Roth

This is a picture book version of the story of the author's initial adventures in Pakistan. It recounts his efforts to build a school for children in the village of Korphe, whose residents helped him when he was lost during a mountain-climbing outing. The text is excellent in its simplicity. Collage illustrations are well done but some may be confusing for young children. End matter includes photographs, maps, and an artist's note appropriate for an adult reader. For K-3.

Butterflies and Moths by Nic Bishop

A beautiful book that explains the difference between butterflies and moths, this title contains the spectacular photography that Bishop is famous for. The text describes life cycles and metamorphosis. It will be great for life science units.

Mermaid Queen by Shana Corey

This picture book biography tells the story of Australian swimmer Annette Kellerman. Credited with inventing water ballet, she also attempted an English Channel swim and pioneered the wearing of modern swimsuits. Bright colorful illustrations and varying fonts provide eye appeal. Young elementary school girls will find this particularly interesting.