Nano: The Spectacular Science of the Very (Very) Small [Hardcover]

The cutting-edge world of nanoscience leaps to life on boldly patterned pages in this STEM-ready gem.

An acclaimed physicist and debut picture-book author introduces readers to the tiny building blocks that make up the world around us. Elegant, friendly text and stylish illustrations explain atoms, the elements, and other essential science concepts and reveal how very (very) small materials are manipulated to create self-washing windows; stronger, lighter airplanes; and other wonders of nanotechnology. Further explanation in the back matter gives more detail about various scientists’ roles and the tools they use. Splashed with bright primary colors, this tribute to the tiny will inspire curious minds of every stripe.Castrillón’s whimsical art is intriguingly paired with the subject matter, incorporating both the explanatory and speculative, using fine lines that seem delicate but are also robust—light but muscular, just like the materials Wade describes. . . . A marvelous spark for the imagination and motivation to learn more.
—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

Exceptionally well-organized and smoothly narrated. . . Wade proceeds from familiar around-the-house scale, down to the molecular level, and then to the mind-bending ultrathin molecular level of nanomaterials, all in terms elementary schoolers can understand. . . a treasure of a group read for teachers and students with minds wide open.
—The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (starred review)

An excellent book for getting young children interested in science, this supports classroom studies of matter, the work of scientists, and the possibilities of future discoveries.
—School Library Journal (starred review)

Playful. . . Organic, and often lush botanic, motifs rendered in pencil, in a muted primary color palettlS²