Bones: Our Skeletal System

Simon, Seymour. 1998. BONES: OUR SKELETAL SYSTEM. New York, NY: Morrow Junior Books. ISBN 0688146457

*Summary

In his informational picture book, BONES: OUR SKELETAL SYSTEM, Seymour Simon thoughtfully explains the human skeletal system. A combination of photographs, sketches, and text works to detail the functions and purposes of many important bones in the human body. This eye-catching and interesting book provides both an overview and specific details about the importance of the human skeletal system.

*Critical Analysis

Before Seymour Simon begins his explanation of the skeletal system in BONES, he thanks Orli Etingin, M.D., for reading his manuscript. Likewise, he credits all sources used for the featured photographs. Simon’s reputation for non-fiction writing also adds to the credibility of the book. Although it contains no table of contents or index, BONES is short in length and can be browsed easily. Adding to the appeal for browsing is that each double-page spread contains a small group of paragraphs which begin and end on that page, meaning that readers can turn to any page and read it in isolation without feeling confused.

Starting with the colorful cover, BONES is enticing to readers young and old. Although the text is informative, the full page photographs which accompany every page of text may first grab the reader's attention (and provide information). For example, a close up depiction of the ball-in-socket joint effectively illustrates the point made in the text. In the same manner, Simon describes spongy bone as "a honeycomb of bone cells with between them" and the double-page computer-enhanced photo certainly increases the interest level in the text and description. The large font size and limit of one to three paragraphs per page also make the book more accessible and inviting for readers.

Although Simon's book is extremely readable, his style employs simple text while still respecting the audience. Appropriate vocabulary and technical terminology demonstrate this sense of respect. A distinctive voice is evident in Simon's use of questions and requests. For example, he tells readers to "Breathe in as deeply as you can, and notice how your chest expands and relaxes." On another page featuring the hand, Simon asks readers if they can find the broken bone in the X-ray photo. These elements of style surely inspire participation in the book and attention to the subject matter. Other examples of style are Simon's well-used comparisons throughout the book. He describes the coating on most joints as "a thick, slippery fluid much like the oil on a door hinge." The combination of the wonderful photos, diagrams, and enthusiastic voice in the text makes BONES an excellent non-fiction book.

*Personal Response

I found the easy, simple language refreshing as I read BONES. I also enjoyed the somewhat abstract pictures included in the book. I think this book would be ideal for browsing as a read-aloud in the library. I’m hoping to use it in the library, as the study of systems is an important part of the science curriculum at my school. Additionally, I think the kids will enjoy the comparisons and questions included in the book.

*Review Excerpts

“Straightforward explanations, similes…, directed activity…, and fabulous full-page, computer-enhanced color photographs work well together to engage and instruct readers.”
Horn Book

“In his instantly recognizable style, Simon addresses the anatomy and function of bones…”
School Library Journal

*Connections

-Read other Seymour Simon books which feature explanations of the human body (MUSCLES: OUR SKELETAL SYSTEM, THE BRAIN, EYES AND EARS).
-Choose one of the major topics in the book and do further research.
-Brainstorm questions that the book inspires. Can these questions be answered? Where is the best place to find answers?
-Discuss other systems of the human body.
-Use this book as an addition to information found in a science or health text book.