Jason Brainard – författare

If Belize is known for one thing, it''s diversity. The only country in continental Central America to use English as its official language, this former British colony is host to a rich culture shaped by its Garinagu, Creole, Maya, Mestizo, and Mennonite population. Today, tourists flock to Belize to experience some of the greatest biodiversity on the planet. This travel volume utilizes helpful maps, intriguing sidebars, and colorful photographs to highlight the history, geography, wildlife, and traditions of this unique nation. Readers can even try making foods from Belize with simple recipes.

The international war on terror has been the focus of news reports for decades, but the information presented by the media can be confusing to people with little background on the subject. Readers explore the history of modern terrorism, various definitions of what constitutes terrorism, and key acts of political violence by both foreign and domestic terrorists. Detailed charts, quotes from experts in the study of terrorism, and in-depth sidebars help readers understand this complex issue and form their own opinions of how it can best be addressed, which they can share by answering thought-provoking discussion questions on this topic.

Although food allergies can be dangerous, they do not have to stop someone from living a healthy, active life. Through informative text featuring annotated quotes and full-color photographs, readers learn the definition of a food allergy and the process for diagnosing food allergies. Growing rates of food allergies and the evolution of industrial agriculture are also examined. Engaging fact boxes and in-depth sidebars highlight important concepts and milestones in food allergy research. By discussing the science behind food allergies, this volume works to dispel harmful myths about food allergies and the individuals who live with them.

In recent years, the purported health and environmental benefits of vegetarianism have convinced many people to eat a plant-based diet. However, experts caution that not all vegetarian foods are inherently healthy. Readers discover this as they explore the history of vegetarianism and nutritional guidelines for living as a healthy vegetarian. Full-color photographs, charts, graphs, and fact boxes are utilized to highlight important concepts, debunked misconceptions, and current scientific studies on nutrition and human health. Along with annotated quotes by experts, these features help young adults learn to think critically about vegetarianism.

This essential earth science guide introduces students to the many benefits mines and wells bring to civilization. It also touches on the need for natural resource management and the importance of mitigating the environmental hazards associated with digging mines and wells. Several processes for extracting resources such as water, oil, salt, gold, and coal are also explored. Detailed photographs of mines, wells, and related technologies will strengthen reader comprehension and knowledge of STEM concepts.

In this volume, readers are introduced to the key concepts of farm and forestry management. The day-to-day responsibilities farmers and loggers face can be both fun and dangerous. Heavy machinery must be cared for properly Animals must also be cared for and their waste must be disposed of in a responsible manner. This book touches on topics including the importance of agriculture, farm runoff, responsible harvesting, and reforestation, as well as how these events affect Earth''s landscape. Photographs and sidebars offer additional chances to learn about farms and logging companies.

They stay in a tank, don''t require walking or litter, and are often quite beautiful. It''s no wonder many people choose fish as pets. Fish ownership isn''t all easy. This book explains why it''s important to maintain a healthy environment for your pet fish and how to do so. Readers will learn the different types of habitats and the equipment that fish require to thrive. Vivid photographs and helpful fact boxes highlight important concepts and strengthen reader comprehension.

This book introduces students to the fun and responsibilities of owning pet hamsters. These adorable and fluffy small pets may require more time and attention than children realize. Prospective hamster owners will learn how to maintain a healthy environment for their pet and learn about overall costs of food, water, bedding, and other items their new pet will need. They''ll also learn more about the origin of hamsters as pets. Fact boxes provide readers with additional information.

Not long ago, drones were considered futuristic, and few people had an opportunity to play with one. Most were reserved for professional purposes, but that''s all changed! Today, anyone can buy and fly a drone right in their own backyard. Drones come in all shapes and sizes. Some drones cost hundreds of dollars, but others are much more affordable for the casual drone hobbyist. Readers will learn how drones fly and all the ways the average person can have fun playing with them. Photographs of hobby drones, as well as kids and adults using them, will excite and inspire young readers.