School Library Journal Review
Gr 4-8-World Book follows up its effective, science-related graphic novel series with some new offerings (SLJ dubbed the original books "welcome additions to most collections"). Various narrators (a sperm cell, a flower, a pine cone) address readers directly, condensing fairly complex subjects, such as cell structure and genetic traits, into readable, bite-size dollops of material. The average quality but colorful illustrations are a nice alternative to drier, more text-heavy tomes. Great introductions to biology, and useful for older students struggling to master the basics. (c) Copyright 2015. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Booklist Review
By pairing straightforward definitions of concepts (Any action an animal makes . . . or any response to change in its environment is called a behavior) with clear cartoon illustrations that demonstrate the idea (a horse running through a field, then jumping when it encounters an obstruction), each entry in the Building Blocks of Science series cleverly uses concrete images to help introduce abstract notions. Animal Life Cycles steers clear of sticky topics like intercourse (and the doodle-like figures help keep blushing at bay) while addressing reproduction, growth, and death. Though some illustrations may require extra guidance, by and large this series presents a bevy of useful facts in an appealing, digestible format that's particularly well suited to visual learners. Available only as a complete set.--Hunter, Sarah Copyright 2014 Booklist
