Michael A. Sommers – författare

Silicon is the second most abundant element in the earth’s crust and it is estimated to be the seventh most plentiful element in the universe. Perhaps best known for its role in technology (it''s how Silicon Valley got its name), silicon is present in everything from clay, aluminum, bricks, and glass to plastics and contact lenses to cosmetics and toiletries. This is a comprehensive look at silicon, including its history, properties, compounds, and uses and with accessible language, vivid images, and step-by-step experiments, readers will gain an in-depth look at this extremely useful element.

Phosphorus is an extremely useful element present in everything from matches and fireworks to steel, bronze, fertilizers, pesticides, and even toothpaste. It''s also an essential part of all living things; we humans have phosphorus in our bones, nerve tissue, cells, and DNA. This title offers a comprehensive view of phosphorus, including its history, properties, compounds, and uses. With accessible language, vivid images, and step-by-step experiments, readers will gain an in-depth look at this important element.

College football is hugely popular in the United States. Nationwide, it is the most popular sport after professional football and baseball. With subject matter will appeal to sports fans and reluctant readers alike, The Big 12 offers a wealth of fascinating information and statistics about one of the nation’s most popular sports and one of the youngest athletic college conferences. Packed with information, it includes conference history, teams and mascots, player and coach profiles, conference rivalries, and important game highlights.

In January 2006, Ehud Olmert was thrust into the world spotlight when he became acting prime minister of Israel after Ariel Sharon had a massive stroke. This is a comprehensive look at Olmert, including his childhood, education, family, and evolution as a politician. It discusses events in Israel, and relates Olmert''s involvement, showing the role he plays in current global affairs, as well as how his political views have evolved throughout his career. With a journalistic, objective covering of the subject material, this book combines the biography of an important leader with a look at both current and past events and politics in Israel.

The Big 12 conference has had at least half of its basketball teams in the postseason every year in its history. The conference came into being on February 25, 1994. The Big 12, which consists of schools from central United States, is split into North and South. North includes the University of Colorado, Iowa State University, University of Kansas, Kansas State University, University of Missouri, and the University of Nebraska. South includes Baylor University, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, University of Texas, and Texas Tech University. This cool volume is packed with a wealth of fascinating information and statistics about one of the nation''s most popular sports and most successful college conferences. Readers will learn about conference history, teams and mascots, key player and coach profiles, conference rivalries, and important game and tournament highlights.

Cocaine, one of the oldest known drugs, is an extremely addictive stimulant. It directly affects the brain, and even first-time use of the drug can be fatal. Cocaine discusses the negative physical and mental health consequences of cocaine use, abuse, and addiction. Vividly descriptive and scientific-minded, the book describes cocaine in both physiological and cultural contexts.

Chat rooms. MySpace and other social networking sites. E-mails. Blogs. Instant messages. Today’s children and teens are constantly communicating online. But do they know how to keep themselves and their personal information safe from online predators? This title explains potential online dangers and how predators in cyberspace operate, discusses risks, and provides clear, practical tips and advice on how to stay safe.

There is a growing gap between the skills entry-level job seekers have and the skills needed in twenty-first century workplaces. In a series dedicated to helping teens become ready to join and succeed in the work force (whether part- or full-time), this title contains a detailed look at the interpersonal skills and knowledge that they need in order to successfully search for and acquire a job, as well as to thrive once hired.

Once a primarily agrarian state, Vermont is now a well-known tourist destination. Many visitors fall in love with its abundant ski slopes, picturesque small towns, and stunning vistas. The first U.S. state that was not part of the original 13 colonies, Vermont was a proud independent republic for many years, and the state retains its sense of independence in the present day. It has consistently embraced progress, and was the first state to outlaw slavery. With numerous historic and modern photographs, informative sidebars, timeline, and fact sheet, this engaging book will teach readers about Vermont’s geography, history, government, and economy. Biographical sketches also introduce readers to some of the state’s most notable inhabitants.

The second amendment of the Constitution has been vigorously debated ever since it was first penned. Are firearms necessary for the preservation of freedom or is the second amendment an antiquated law that has no place in today’s America? This book addresses the legal and moral arguments for and against the right to bear arms, while putting the amendment in context by studying the history of its purpose, inception, and evolution.

Snowmobiling has become popular today in North America, particularly with families. It encompasses a variety of styles, including on-trail riding, cross-country riding off trails, boon docking in regions of forests, and hill climbing in mountainous areas. Snowmobile clubs build, maintain, and map new trails. Readers learn about creating a snow plan so that others know where to look if there are any problems while snowmobiling. This informative volume examines the history of the snowmobile as well as the proper riding gear, accessories, and equipment that are required for the sport. Safety rules and trail signing are also described.

The author Avi has written more than 70 children’s and young adult books and has fans—young and old—all over the world. Readers can’t help but be inspired by Avi’s life story, including his battle and ultimate triumph over dyslexia. Despite his problem being ignored and not diagnosed until late in his childhood, Avi was determined to make it as a writer. This author’s story will hold readers as rapt as they are while reading one of his best-selling, award-winning novels. They’ll find themselves eagerly flipping pages to find out what happens next.

In the National Football League, where players must be incredibly fast and strong just to survive, it seems almost inevitable that the use of performance-enhancing drugs would be a problem. This book looks at the history of the use of steroids and human growth hormone in the NFL, with special attention paid to the players whose lives have been turned upside-down by performance-enhancing drugs.

Establishing professional relationships is an important part of building a career. With this enlightening resource, readers will be ready to wow their boss and peers with their commitment to teamwork. This insightful read will clearly explain how to communicate in an effective manner, all while being assertive, influential, and cooperative. Readers will find step-by-step guides on how to negotiate and how to handle conflict in a professional, respectful, and direct manner. Teens will be empowered to speak up at work, make friends, and take their career to the next level.