📖 Overview
Is That a Fact? presents common beliefs and assumptions that many people accept as truth, examining them through a scientific lens. Simon analyzes dozens of widely-held notions about animals, space, the human body, and natural phenomena.
The book takes a methodical approach, dedicating a section to each misconception and explaining the actual scientific evidence. Facts are presented with clear explanations of the research and discoveries that either support or disprove each belief.
Through questioning popular myths and legends, this book demonstrates how scientific investigation can reveal unexpected truths about our world. The text encourages readers to examine their own assumptions and approach claims with critical thinking skills.
👀 Reviews
Readers view this science book as engaging for elementary school children due to its question-and-answer format covering animal facts and myths. Many note it works well for teaching critical thinking and research skills.
Liked:
- Easy-to-understand explanations
- Interesting topics that appeal to kids
- Good mix of scientific facts and common misconceptions
- Clear organization with one topic per page
- Photos help illustrate concepts
Disliked:
- Some facts feel outdated (book published in 1988)
- Limited number of topics covered
- A few readers wanted more in-depth explanations
Ratings:
Goodreads: 3.9/5 (46 ratings)
Amazon: 4.2/5 (8 ratings)
Notable reviews:
"Perfect for curious kids who want to fact-check what they've heard" - Elementary teacher on Goodreads
"My students regularly grab this during free reading time" - School librarian on Amazon
"Would benefit from an updated edition with current research" - Parent reviewer on Amazon
📚 Similar books
Do You Know What You're Looking At? by Andrew Mayer
This guide explores tricky optical illusions and explains the science behind how human eyes and brains process visual information.
The Way Things Work Now by David Macaulay This reference book breaks down complex machines and technology into step-by-step explanations with detailed illustrations.
Brain Games by National Geographic Kids The collection presents puzzles, riddles, and experiments that demonstrate scientific principles through hands-on activities.
Science Encyclopedia by National Geographic This reference text covers core science concepts through real-world examples and practical applications.
How Come? by Kathy Wollard The book answers questions about everyday science phenomena through explanations of chemical reactions, physics principles, and natural laws.
The Way Things Work Now by David Macaulay This reference book breaks down complex machines and technology into step-by-step explanations with detailed illustrations.
Brain Games by National Geographic Kids The collection presents puzzles, riddles, and experiments that demonstrate scientific principles through hands-on activities.
Science Encyclopedia by National Geographic This reference text covers core science concepts through real-world examples and practical applications.
How Come? by Kathy Wollard The book answers questions about everyday science phenomena through explanations of chemical reactions, physics principles, and natural laws.
🤔 Interesting facts
🔍 Seymour Simon has written over 300 science books for children, earning him the title "the dean of children's science writing"
📚 The author worked as a teacher in the New York City public school system for 23 years before becoming a full-time writer
🌟 Is That a Fact? challenges common misconceptions and urban legends, teaching children to think critically about information they hear
🏆 Simon was the first children's author to receive the New York State Kappa Delta Pi Distinguished Career in Education Award
🔬 His photography-rich science books have won multiple awards from the American Association for the Advancement of Science