How the Body Works: The Facts Simply Explained (How Things Work)

Jinne Store
From School Library Journal Gr 9 Up—This latest from DK offers a straightforward presentation of anatomical facts, ranging from the expected (cell diagrams, body systems, nutrition) to the delightfully obscure (the multiple immune system cells used to defeat pathogens, the chemical effects of near-death experiences). Boasting full-color illustrations on every page, which are surrounded by brief paragraphs of text, this title avoids a blanch-inducing textbook format. Even the most science-timid readers will find engagement in its creative exhibitions of diagrams and demonstrations. The book's coverage, however, is broad, rather than deep; for example, the chemical factors behind sexual attraction are listed, but no further exploration of different sexualities is pursued. Additionally, the text occasionally employs the second person "you," resulting in ambiguity over who is being addressed. This usage is especially confusing in the sidebar on menstruation in the "Feeling Attraction" spread, where the text conjectures that "you tend to flirt more and dress more attractively" during ovulation. This deviation from fact to social observation, here and in other areas, may be perplexing or jarring for readers. Otherwise, this volume is an ideal reference for those tackling challenging biology or anatomy homework. With the extensive index, finding explanations of terms is easy. Where the layout stumbles is its unorthodox page numbering. Both numbers are listed on the upper right corner of each spread, making accurate citation difficult. VERDICT This is a solid buy for all YA nonfiction purchasers keeping their 600s up-to-date.—Chelsea Woods, New Brunswick Free Public Library, NJ About the Author DK was founded in London in 1974 and is now the world's leading illustrated reference publisher and part of Penguin Random House, formed on July 1, 2013. DK publishes highly visual, photographic nonfiction for adults and children. DK produces content for consumers in over 87 countries and in 62 languages, with offices in Delhi, London, Melbourne, Munich, New York, and Toronto. DK's aim is to inform, enrich, and entertain readers of all ages, and everything DK publishes, whether print or digital, embodies the unique DK design approach. DK brings unrivalled clarity to a wide range of topics with a unique combination of words and pictures, put together to spectacular effect. We have a reputation for innovation in design for both print and digital products. Our adult range spans travel, including the award-winning DK Eyewitness Travel Guides, history, science, nature, sport, gardening, cookery, and parenting. DK’s extensive children’s list showcases a fantastic store of information for children, toddlers, and babies. DK covers everything from animals and the human body, to homework help and craft activities, together with an impressive list of licensing titles, including the bestselling LEGO® books. DK acts as the parent company for Alpha Books, publisher of the Idiot's Guides series and Prima Games, video gaming publishers, as well as the award-winning travel publisher, Rough Guides.