School Library Journal Review
Gr 5 Up-Clear explanations of scientific thought and fact are presented in conversational tones and illuminated by easily grasped examples, making the subject matter less daunting. Sidebars, maps, and well-captioned illustrations further detail the scientists' personal lives, education, and the societies in which they lived. Excerpts from the men's writings are liberally scattered throughout. A lengthy annotated time line illustrating major events in the subjects' lives, contrasted against historical and cultural milestones, enhances each volume, and a "Life at a Glance" section provides key biographical information.-Jennifer Schultz, Fauquier County Public Library, Warrenton, VA (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Booklist Review
Seasoned author Nardo brings his lively, informative approach to this standout biography of the Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe, or Tycho, as he was most commonly known. From a defining moment, in which Tycho first glimpsed a supernova, Nardo tracks back to the pioneering scientist's advantaged childhood and then forward through his astonishing career. Nardo gracefully inserts clear definitions of technical terms, such as parallax, into the biography, and corresponding time lines connect world events with Tycho's breakthrough discoveries and personal milestones. Throughout, Nardo communicates the essence of scientific inquiry: that basic, sincere observation of natural occurrences inspires curiosity, passionate questioning, and further research. The series' award-winning design is once again reflected in the successful mix of archival images, fact boxes, and time lines, laid out on thick pages. Source notes and additional-reading suggestions conclude this entry in the Scientific Revolution subset of the Signature Lives series.--Engberg, Gillian Copyright 2007 Booklist
