If I swallow a watermelon seed, will one start growing in my stomach?

November 1, 2019
Grades 2-4 The Answer Me This, World Book series (10 titles) sorts common questions into broad categories, each of which is represented by one title. The questions are phrased from a child's point of view, and the authors match the silly tone by introducing their responses with jokes (bad puns are set in bold) that segue into more factual answers, often covering complex issues in single, short paragraphs. Some questions are sillier? Does crust really make your hair curlier? ?and some more serious? Does global warming mean it'll be summer all the time? The scope of the other titles is more self-evident; If I Swallow? handles the human body. Formatted with large photos and entertaining illustrations, a standard spread positions questions on the left-hand side in a big, zany font and the answers on the right. The series' primary accomplishment is in its expansive collection of intriguing questions, perfectly reflective of young readers interests. From an informational standpoint, though, the answers often leave more to be desired. Still, while knowledge is but a click away these days, this curiosity-driven series has inherent kid appeal in its playful presentation and witty responses.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2019, American Library Association.)