Rock Climbing

 
Hamilton, S.L. (2010).  Rock Climbing. Edina, MN: ABDO Publishing.
Interest level: Grades 3+
Reading level: 4+

This book is part of the “Xtreme Sports” series and will definitely appeal to reluctant readers. Each chapter consists of two side by side pages featuring a large color picture. A sentence or two describes the topic at hand in a large and attractive font. Readers are introduced to the general topic of extreme climbing and are then introduced to the different styles of climbing, the gear needed to climb, what kind of strength is required to climb and information on the dangers of climbing is given. The text explains that climbs are graded on difficulty and on the length of time they take to complete and then gives examples of each grade. There is a glossary to define climbing terms as well as an index.

This book contains good basic information on rock climbing. If used in conjunction with other sources it would be useful for reports. It would be useful with struggling or reluctant readers, but the strength of this book really is in the pictures. I think most students would pick this up more to marvel at the amazing feats performed by extreme climbers than anything else and while they do that they may learn just enough to compel them to find more in depth information.