Books
The Wild Thing books
Nonfiction for curious readers ages 8–12, from ABRAMS Books for Young Readers. Inspired by the Wild Thing podcast, each book uses the scientific method and good journalism to help kids explore the world around them, ask questions, and tell science fact from science fiction.
2022 · Indies Introduce selection
The Search for Sasquatch
Is Bigfoot real?
Do you believe in Bigfoot? Or do you think Sasquatch is nothing more than a myth? Journalist Laura Krantz goes into the woods—and into the lab—to try to answer these questions. And she encourages us to explore why Bigfoot might be important, even if we never solve the mystery.
2023 · Junior Library Guild selection
Is There Anybody Out There?
Do aliens exist?
That thing in the sky was just an airplane… right? Analyzing reports of UFO sightings, examining deep-space technology, and interviewing scientists searching the farthest stars and planets for anything out of the ordinary, Krantz uses the scientific method to explore the possibility of extraterrestrial life, from the single-celled to the big-brained. Even if what’s out there remains a mystery—for now—she shows why it’s important to stay curious about our universe.
2024 · Junior Library Guild selection
Do You Believe in Magic?
Does magic work?
Spells and curses, hexes and potions, superstitions and rituals: a lot of what we call magic has roots in real practices, and in sciences from chemistry to botany to astronomy. Krantz explores how magic and science might be two sides of the same coin. Includes an at-home science and magic experiment.
“Thoughtful… engaging… This will be equally palatable to skeptics, true believers, and the curious.” — Booklist
For teachers & librarians
Every Wild Thing book includes a glossary, bibliography and index, and models how journalists and scientists test a claim: ask a question, gather evidence, weigh it, and stay open to surprise. The books are shelved in children’s nonfiction at libraries across the country.