A is for Atom Book Review

Fact: Young children adore science. However, there are precious few books that give proper scientific terminology geared toward young children. This beautiful new picture book, A is for Atom, is everything you hope for when searching for an ABC book. It combines vibrant art with early concepts of science and a must-have for parents and classroom teachers around the world.

Scroll to the end for a chance to win a copy of A is for Atom.

*Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this book from the authors to facilitate this review.  As always, all opinions are my own.

A is for Atom Book Review

In my conversation with the author and illustrator, Adam Durant and Kara J. Rutledge, this dynamic duo author/illustrator pair blew me away. Kara and Adam are art and science teachers in Philadelphia (USA).

They are best friends, business partners, and are planning to get married over summer break this year. Not only did this talented pair fall in love, they have combined their passion for education into this stunning book.

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An ABC Book That Smashes the Status Quo

When you browse the ABC board books, you see many versions of the status quo; A is for Apple, B is for Banana. Kara and Adam know that to hook a child’s attention, you have to do better than that.  Enter A is for Atom and B is for Bacteria.

This book is a catalyst (a clever pun from the author/illustrator duo) for readers and listeners alike to engage in learning about scientific concepts.

A is for Atom is expertly designed to allow children to grow with the content. As a child grows from 0-5, both their age and curiosity about the world increases. Parents and caregivers tend to be shocked when you tell them a young child would be interested in learning “P is for Photosynthesis”.

Learn the ABCs with photosynthesis, orbit and jet stream! #abcbook #aisforatombook #STEMed #earlyed Click To Tweet

However, as the authors know from their own classrooms, a simple ABC introduction is a perfect way to cultivate a love for STEM early on. Each of the scientific terms in A is for Atom has a simplified definition in the glossary to help build on a child’s knowledge and natural curiosity as they move through the elementary grades.

The book is relevant from birth until middle school science class where Adam brilliantly uses his science experiments to bring the terminology to life. 

Teachers Know Best

I have read many self-published books, and this book is everything you hope from a self-starting pair. Kara and Adam are seasoned teachers who know what kids like and more importantly, know what amazing things children are capable of learning.

This didactic book is perfect as children grow in their depth of understanding for terms like jet stream, fungus, and matter. The book was intentionally illustrated with colors that appeal to both genders. Furthermore, from the high quality of the pages to the unique and stunning collage art, this is the PERFECT book for teaching general science from day 1.

There is no marketing team or big publishing contract for this book. However, this self-published book is definitely deserving of being in the spotlight. Grab a copy of the book A is For Atom as well as the adorable baby onesie and support this incredible STEM educational endeavor.

It’s the perfect gift for your next baby shower, birthday party, or a donation to a classroom library.

Hint: Teacher Appreciation Week

Connect with Adam and Kara on Instagram | Website | Facebook

Best New Multicultural STEM Picture Books

Want even more? Check out my list of Best New Multicultural Books for STEMinists on KidLitTV.  These STEM picture books showcase strong female protagonists as inventors, scientists, and artists. 

Travel from a test tube in a tiny lab to a rocket ship in outer space through these new multicultural picture books for STEMinists.

(photo credit Jordan Honnette)

Want more book recommendations?  Join our Facebook tribe of children’s book activists dedicated to teaching literacy skills with diverse books and check out The Anatomy of a Diverse Bookshelf.

Teaching Kids to Read Ages 0-5

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Enter to Win a Copy of A is for Atom

One lucky winner will be chosen on March 16th, 2018.

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