Reviews: (by author)

Winner, Cherie. Life on the Edge. Minneapolis : Lerner Books, 2006. $25.26

The new Cool Science series from Lerner introduces 4 th through 6 th graders to various "hot" fields of scientific inquiry and technological development. In Life on the Edge , author Cherie Winner explores the mysteries of extremophiles, organisms that survive in environments inimical to most forms of life.
From geothermal pools to caves and ocean trenches, this book chronicles the various adaptive strategies of some of nature's most curious organisms. Along the way, readers are treated to informative discussions of microbial taxa, antifreeze proteins and bacteriorhodopsin, a protein than converts light into an electrical charge. Copious photographs and sidebars enhance the text.
The overall layout of the book is visually engaging and certain to hold young readers' interest. The writing style is both clear and informative. The author successfully introduces a basic vocabulary of relevant scientific concepts without lapsing into jargon. Also included are a useful glossary of terms and a bibliography of literature and electronic resources for students' further study. Life on the Edge is a fine addition to this excellent series.

- Mark Janssen, March 2006