The Encyclopedia of STEM Words by Jenny Jacoby and Vicky Barker

A Passion for STEM

The Encyclopedia of STEM Words by Jenny Jacoby and Vicky Barker. Published by b small publishing (sent for review). It’s a superb compendium of key vocabulary that you may encounter in the world of STEM. STEM = Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths.

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The cover of 'The Encyclopedia of STEM Words' featuring colorful graphics and illustrations representing various STEM concepts, surrounded by playful educational toys and natural elements.

Following on from my A-Levels in Physics, Chemistry and Maths I studied Chemistry at university. So I’ve had experience of a plethora of textbooks on STEM topics.

An open book page illustrating echolocation and ecosystems, featuring diagrams of a bat using echolocation and a flowchart depicting the relationship between plants, nutrients, soil, and animals.

Non-Fiction STEM Words for Visual Learners

I’ve always been a very visual learner. Topics are depicted through diagrams and aren’t too word heavy are my preference. This book has the perfect balance of both.

An open children's book page featuring illustrations and text explaining the concepts of 'Data' and 'Deciduous' trees. The page includes diagrams, vibrant colors, and various playful graphics to engage young readers.

There’s something quite nostalgic for me in style. My love of STEM came from my Mom and her passion for it. As a child she had a magazine subscription to Understanding Science. It was an incredible periodical that was so visually impactful.

An open page from a colorful children's STEM book titled 'How to Use This Book' and 'What is STEM?', featuring illustrations related to science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

Ideal STEM Book

Obviously as with anything STEM there are continual advancements and therefore my beloved Understanding Science are a little out dated. However, The Encyclopedia of STEM Words has good longevity with key terms that are defined well.

Contents page of a STEM vocabulary book featuring an alphabetical list of terms related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Contents and index page terms are laid out in alphabetical order. There’s an alphabet at the top of each page with the letter you are on highlighted. This aids young readers in navigating the book.

A page from the index of a STEM-related book, featuring listed terms with definitions and corresponding page numbers.

A clever addition is that the index doubles as a glossary. Terms that are in bold in the text can be found in the index. A brief definition is given – genius.

A page from a STEM book introducing concepts of orbit and ozone, featuring colorful diagrams and engaging text for young readers.

Concise but Robust

It’s such a skill to be able to disseminate complex ideas in a concise manner that can be understood by all. Jenny Jacoby absolutely has this skill. Vicky Barker’s diagrams are quirky and fun but are more than just eye candy. Each image helps aid the understanding of the reader in perfect harmony with Jenny’s text.

An open children's book page featuring colorful diagrams and descriptions of igneous rocks and immunology, with illustrations of a volcano and immune cells.

Highly Recommended STEM Book

It’s a highly recommend from me. Finally, it’s also a text I would encourage all schools and libraries to have multiple copies of as well as a reference copy at home. Perfect for #TeachKidsTuesdays. For readers around 7 years + and certainly a book that I would encourage secondary schools to have too.