National Network for Equitable Library Service

Our true origins are not just human, or even terrestrial, but in fact cosmic. Drawing on scientific breakthroughs and the current cross-pollination among geology, biology, astrophysics, and cosmology, Origins explains the soul-stirring leaps in our understanding of the cosmos.

Adam Rogers reveals alcohol as a miracle of science, going deep into the pleasures of making and drinking booze--and the effects of the latter. He also brings to life the motley characters and evolving science behind the latest developments in boozy technology.

Alan Lightman explores the emotional and philosophical questions raised by discoveries in science, focusing on the human condition and the needs of mankind. He suggests that, perhaps, what we see and understand of the world is only a tiny piece of the extraordinary whole.

When the International Astronomical Union voted Pluto out of planethood, Americans rallied behind this extraterrestrial underdog. Pluto is entrenched in our cultural, patriotic view of the cosmos, and Tyson is on a quest to discover why.

This collection of essays on the cosmos from the nation's best-known astrophysicist covers everything from astral life at the frontiers of astrobiology to the movie industry's feeble efforts to get its night skies right.

Did you know that cars can run on french-fry grease or that human poop can be used to provide power to classrooms? Kids in Mexico help light up their houses by playing soccer, and in the Philippines, pop-bottle skylights are improving the quality of life for thousands of families. Brilliant! is about what happens when you harness the power of imagination and innovation: the world changes for the better! Full of examples of unusual (and often peculiar) power sources, Brilliant! encourages kids to look around for new and sustainable ways to light up the world.

The Sea Wolves sets out to disprove the notion of "the Big Bad Wolf," especially as it is applied to coastal wolves, a unique strain of wolf that lives in the rainforest along the Pacific coast of Canada. Genetically distinct from their inland cousins and from wolves in any other part of the world, coastal wolves can swim like otters and fish like the bears with whom they share the rainforest. Smaller than the gray wolves that live on the other side of the Coast Mountains, these wolves are highly social and fiercely intelligent creatures.

Pedal It! celebrates the humble bicycle, from the very first boneshakers to the sleek racing bikes of today, from handlebars to spokes to gear sprockets, and shows you why and how bikes can make the world a better place. Not only can bikes be used to power computers and generators, they can also reduce pollution, promote wellness and get a package across a crowded city, fast! Informative but not didactic, Pedal It! encourages young readers to be part of the joy of cycling.

In clear and accessible language, Generation Us explains the phenomenon of global warming, outlines the threat it presents to future generations and offers a path toward solutions to the problem. The reality of global warming has long been accepted within the scientific community, yet it remains a hotly debated topic at the political and social level. Why is this? Is it the fact that the ultimate effects of global warming will not be felt in our lifetimes? Do we really feel no moral responsibility for future generations? Dr.

Earthquakes are a terrifying yet fascinating force of nature. Seismologist Johanna Wagstaffe takes you through her own journey of understanding the earth beneath our feet. Along the way you’ll learn the science behind what makes the earth rumble and hear from kids around the world who have experienced the wonder, and terror, of an earthquake.