Lego

This entry in the Brands We Know series offers younger and less able readers a coherent overview of the LEGO company's origins, growth, and products. Along with a highly selective tally of popular sets, kits, and minifigs that have come and gone, Green mentions the theme parks, the LEGO Foundation's charitable work, and the science competitions sponsored by the FIRST LEGO League. Color photos, some with inset corporate slogans, include young people working with the familiar pieces, as well as views of LEGO figures and constructions, though no glimpses of the plastic bricks and other items actually being manufactured. Consider as a serviceable source for primary level reports and, of course, for browsers.--Peters, John Copyright 2015 Booklist

Gr 2--4--Each popular brand is described from the beginning to its current existence in this series. Titles start with a table of contents and then provide a brief example written in third person showing how someone might enjoy the topic brand. With vocabulary bolded and in a contrasting color, shorter paragraphs correspond with pictures and graphics throughout. From where it was invented to original prototypes/concept art, the history of the creator(s) to the philanthropy of the brand, such as Minecraft developers, Mojang Studios, who "teamed with the Block by Block Foundation to improve communities around the world," each title covers a wide variety of information in a short amount of time. Drawings and photos are labeled, and graphics, including maps, time lines, and graphs are used to further detail the where, when, and how the brand has been successful over time, such as how Pokémon has gone from card collecting to community connection through Pokémon Go Community Days. A glossary, further reading, and index are included in the back matter. While the amount of information could be overwhelming for younger readers, the pictures and graphics are eye-catching and allow for easy understanding. VERDICT A broad overview of popular brands for young enthusiasts of each topic.