Informational Text_ The Brain: Our Nervous System by Seymour Simon

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Simon, Seymour. 1997. THE BRAIN: OUR NERVOUS SYSTEM. New York, NY: Morrow Junior Books. ISBN 0688146414.

2. PLOT SUMMARY
This informational, photo essay book examines the multi-facets of the brain and how it, along with the nervous system, work together to enable us to use our five senses, breathe, recall, sing, and do so much more.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
First and foremost, learning that Orli R. Etingin, M.D., read the manuscript vouches for the accuracy and credibility of the contents in this informative book.

The brain is a very sophisticated and complex organ. Writing about it in layman’s terms is not an easy feat. However, Simon takes this complex topic and describes it in a non-threatening, comprehensible manner. The language he uses fascinates and intrigues. “Your brain is the control center for everything you do….Signals go out from your brain to other parts of your body….”

Simon organizes the intricacies of the brain and the central nervous system from simple to complex. He describes the brain as being “made up of hundreds of billions of microscopic cells.” He refers to these cells as “special messenger cells” and identifies them by their scientific term—neurons. Simon’s depictions of neurons, glial cells, axons, dendrites, and other brain components are very clear and focused. You learn how they function and the purpose they serve.

Most of the graphics are double page spreads. The varied images communicate what the text describes. Whether the image is in the form of a computer-enhanced X-ray photograph, a colorful graphic, or a photograph of a model, they personalize the information on the text. The impact of the print and graphics make one realize that the brain is not an abstract idea, but a concrete part of you.

4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
Review in SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: "[Simon's] clear, concise writing style is complemented by stunning color images."

Review in THE HORN BOOK: “An absorbing introduction to this amazing control system that can do more jobs than the most powerful computer ever made.”

5. CONNECTIONS
*Highlight informational, photo essay, books in a corner of the library. Begin by displaying Seymour Simon’s books and changing the author on a regular basis.
*Simon’s books can be used for recreational reading (Vardell 233).
*They can be used as resources for Science Fair Projects.