by Larry Gonick & Craig Criddle $30

You don’t need to be a scientist to grasp the complex ideas of chemistry because this book explains them: the history and basics of chemistry, atomic theory, combustion, solubility, reaction stoichiometry, the mole, entropy and more – all explained in simple, clear, and yes funny illustrations.  Chemistry will never be the same!

See also The Cartoon Guide to Physics

by MB Synge

A fascinating account of the world’s famous explorers, including the early travelers in ancient times, the discovery of the New World, explorations in Africa and Australia, and the expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic. Many of the explorers tell part of their story in their own words. Amply illustrated with reproductions of early maps and charts, as well as old woodcuts, drawings, paintings, and miniatures. Emphasis is placed on the explorers’ “record of splendid endurance, of hardships bravely borne, of silent toil, of courage and resolution unequalled in the annals of mankind, of self-sacrifice unrivalled and faithful lives laid ungrudgingly down.” Suitable for ages 10 and up. 548p, 800g.

See The Old Schoolhouse magazine’s review.

A refreshingly humorous and effective cartoon explanation of the principles of physics.You don’t have to be a scientist to grasp these and many other complex ideas, becausethis book explains them all: velocity, acceleration, explosions, electricity and magnetism, circuits — even a taste of relativity theory — and much more, in simple, clear, and, yes, funny illustrations. Physics will never be the same! PB 224p, 310g.

See also The Cartoon Guide to Chemistry.