Book Review: Bones: Skeletons and How they Work

 

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Jenkins, S. (2010). Bones: Skeletons and how they work. Scholastic Press.

ISBN: 0545046513

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

This non-fiction book provides readers with information about bones. From human bones to animal bones, readers are given in-depth knowledge about the different bones that make up human and animal bodies and their functions.

3.CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Using a variety of different text features like illustrations, labels, headings, and information boxes, Jenkins details exactly how different bones work. The information provided is very precise and it keeps readers thinking and making inferences as they read along. Each page is filled with detailed information about different bones, starting with a skull and ending with a complete human skeleton. Additionally, Jenkins does a great job of sharing the purpose of each bone and how they help both humans and animals. As an added bonus, Jenkins also provides notes at the bottom of each page sharing how the size of the image in the book compares to the actual size of the bone. One of my favorite parts of this book were the information boxes found at the end of the book. In that section, readers are provided with additional information such as what bones are made of human bone trivia, and fun facts about the “funny bone” among other things.

Jenkins’ illustrations are very realistic. Each illustration is accompanied by a bold background color that provides a beautiful contrast against the ivory skeleton bones. Additionally, each picture perfectly depicts the descriptive text provided by Jenkins.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Starred review in Booklist: “Jenkins provides concise chunks of text alongside his always impressive cut-paper collages.”

Starred review in School Library Journal: “bones are given an entertaining and fresh treatment”

5. CONNECTIONS

*Have students research other animals that were not described in this book. Have them research their bones and how the bones help them function daily. 

* Have students read another book about bones and have them compare their book of choice to this one. What are some similarities and some differences in the books?

*Other books bones

Krensky, S., & Jones, D. (1999). Bones. Random House. ISBN: 067989036X

Morgan, B., & Parker, S. (2016). The skeleton book. DK Publishing.

ISBN: 1465453369

Review completed for SHSU MLA course

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