Helen Plum Library

"Bear sets out to build a house from scratch before winter comes"-- "Readers will see a house built before their very eyes as they are guided through detailed descriptions of each step in the construction process, from site selection, to chopping trees to make wooden planks, to laying down foundations, insulation, and power and plumbing. Key to the process is Bear’s attention to sustainable architecture, an excellent lesson for kids who want to...

"Following a run of New Year's concerts at San Francisco's legendary Fillmore, Patti Smith finds herself tramping the coast of Santa Cruz, about to embark on a year of solitary wandering. Unfettered by logic or time, she draws us into her private wonderland with no design, yet heeding signs -- including a talking sign that looms above her, prodding and sparring like the Cheshire Cat. In February, a surreal lunar year begins, bringing with it unexpected...

"Meet Cloud! Follow along as she moves, transforms, precipitates, and more in this charming and humorous portrayal of the water cycle. From drizzle to snow to a thunderstorm party, Cloud's journey is documented through short, engaging chapters that capture the excitement and humor of weather in its many forms."--Provided by publisher

"The first book to address cognitive enhancement and Alzheimer's prevention specifically in women--and to frame brain health as an essential component of women's health"--

In the second installment of the Science Buddies series, a volcano takes young readers through the fascinating formation and life of an active volcano--cool! I mean, hot! How do volcanoes form? What makes them erupt? Are there different kinds? Hi, I'm Volcano! And I'm here to answer all your burning questions! In friendly, simple text and with funny, engaging, and informative illustrations, a young volcano will teach readers everything there...

"From Antarctica's biting katabatic gusts to Hawai'i's sweet-smelling moani, discover fourteen winds of the world through poetry, scientific facts, and transporting illustrations."--Provided by publisher

"In this groundbreaking book, world-renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson tackles the world's thorniest philosophical conundrums, armed with wit, wisdom, and cutting-edge science. Together with distinguished physicist James Trefil, Tyson presents questions that have preoccupied humanity for millennia. Then, using the latest theories, from the Big Bang to string theory and the multiverse, he explores the answers, bolstered with stunning images...

Quick! If you don't move fast, you're going to miss him -- there he goes-- Randolph Caldecott, future famous illustrator. His sketchbook is full of hurly-burly; wild weather, frisky animals and people so sprightly they can barely hold on to the pages. But in the 1850s, there are no children's books like that. Not yet. Many are published, but their pictures look still, full of pretty poses and cluttered scenery. No one has imagined how much fun an...

"Thirteen flies become tasty snacks in this clever reverse counting book about predators and prey. Science meets subtraction as a swarm of flies buzzes along, losing one member to each predator along the way. Includes a guide to eating bugs, complete with nutritional information for a single serving of flies."--

"A picture book describing the symbiotic relationships of forests, describing a young tree and how she is helped by her forest family as she grows"--