Review by Booklist Review
In the cheerful-looking English Grammar series (12 titles), each book presents its topic in 10 chapters. While the explanations of concepts, rules, and exceptions are relatively brief, the text follows up immediately with examples and challenges designed to engage children in learning how to apply the ideas. Spelling presents some basic rules for spelling words in English, along with examples, common exceptions to the rules, and tricks that may help readers choose between two alternatives. The generous use of white space, colorful design elements, and fairly large type create an inviting look, an impression underscored by the photos illustrating words or sentences used as examples within the text. These pictures include wild animals, pets, and active children who are often laughing or at least smiling. What inspires the merriment? That's sometimes hard to say, but the upbeat visuals do make the books' subjects seem more appealing.--Carolyn Phelan Copyright 2019 Booklist
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 3-6-These basic guides do a good job of demystifying the English language, and they do so with a contemporary spin. The varied graphics and vibrant photographs reinforce the concepts and enhance comprehension. Colorful text boxes labeled "Quick Fact," "Definition," "Rule," "Hot Tip," and "Example"; exercises; and answer keys are also included. Similes makes real-world connections by way of jokes, everyday expressions, and popular songs. Brian P. Cleary's "Words Are CATegorical" series (Carolrhoda) uses Seuss-like humor and is accessible to younger students. These titles are more comprehensive and will be useful in classrooms and libraries.-Gloria Koster, West School, New Canaan, CT (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.