For all that fracking is in the news, actually explaining it to children as something other than just a funny-sounding word can prove problematic, but this volume in the Today's News series makes a noble effort. Although it's only 32 pages, there are plenty of facts about fracking in it re than just the 12 boasted on the cover. Each two-page spread starts with an overarching fact about an element of fracking and follows with a detailed explanation. Full-color, sometimes full-page photographs appear on each page, with captions, and colorful sidebars and text boxes sum up the information concisely. A few "Think about It" writing prompts will be helpful for classroom use. An interesting, easy-to-read book that strives to stay neutral on a hot-button topic.

FELIX, Rebecca . 12 Things to Know About Space Exploration . ISBN 9781632350329 ; ISBN 9781632350923 . LC 2014946808. KALLIO, Jamie . 12 Things to Know About Climate Change . ISBN 9781632350282 ; ISBN 9781632350886 . LC 2014946807. KALLIO, Jamie . 12 Things to Know About Invasive Species . ISBN 9781632350305 ; ISBN 9781632350909 . LC 2014946810. Kallio, Jamie . 12 Things to Know About Wild Weather . ISBN 9781632350350 ; ISBN 9781632350954 . LC 2014946813. MCCABE, Matthew . 12 Things to Know About Political Parties . ISBN 9781632350312 ; ISBN 9781632350916 . LC 2014946809. MCCABE, Matthew . 12 Things to Know About Terrorism . ISBN 9781632350336 ; ISBN 9781632350930 . LC 2014946811. SEPAHBAN, Lois . 12 Things to Know About the Stock Market . ISBN 9781632350343 ; ISBN 9781632350947 . LC 2014946812. ea vol: 32p. (Today's News). ebook available. further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Amicus / 12-Story . 2015. lib. ed. $28.50. pap. $8.95. Gr 46 In an attempt to get students to think critically and draw well-formed conclusions, this set takes a balanced look at complicated current events, breaking each issue down into 12 manageable facts or aspects. Each book employs a clear narrative style, as well as a clean, dynamic design, with text boxes containing supplemental information and color captioned photos with eye-catching text bubbles. The subjects, which include everything from terrorism to fracking to the stock market, are discussed from modern-day and historical perspectives, providing different contexts to consider. "Think About It" boxes interspersed throughout ask questions, encouraging readers to provide textual evidence for their answers, which aligns with Common Core standards. VERDICT The engaging format will enlighten readers and keep them turning pages. Solid general purchase options.