Nervous system

This detailed overview introduces both the peripheral and central nervous systems (PNS and CNS). Mason explains senses and the neurons that help detect stimuli, the autonomic and somatic systems that control reflexes and voluntary actions, and the CNS, which includes the brain and the spinal cord. She touches on brain components and their functions, dreaming, synesthesia, and coordination with other body systems. A final chapter explores brain injuries and illnesses, stress (both good and bad), medical specialties involving the nervous system, and healthy habits. Appealing spreads each contain one or two paragraphs of succinct text and a variety of visual material: colorful diagrams, time lines, sidebars, related facts, and captioned, full-color photos. Anatomy and function are explained clearly, with examples geared to the intended audience (children are depicted in most of the photos) and vivid color choices (the individual brain lobes are illustrated in bright-neon hues) that draw attention to important details. A worthy selection from the True Book: Your Amazing Body series (5 titles).

Gr 3--5--Have you ever wondered if you need gravity to digest food? The human body is full of fascinating parts that work together in a symphony of motion to make all of our processes work. Those systems are broken down across this series in delightful detail from the saliva on our teeth to the nerves in our toes. Each book follows a snappy fact box style with some interconnected narrative to move through the specified system. Myths are dispelled along the way, but there is a generally positive vibe as the focus is truly on what makes the body amazing. VERDICT Fans of "True Books" will love this new addition to the collection.