In clear, lyrical language, these imaginative series titles present basic facts about their respective subjects. Following a descriptive introduction, short chapters contain one scientific concept per spread. Shapes briefly discusses how a cloud is formed, as well as the characteristics of the four major types. The second title describes the water cycle, the benefits and dangers of rainfall, and its role in different climates. In both presentations, Sherman uses vivid metaphors and similes, comparing clouds to scoops of ice cream and rainy streets to mirrors. Supplemental facts, lists of additional resources, sample experiments, and related Web pages will further assist young researchers in their understanding. Both titles are illustrated with softly colored, digitally created geometric pictures that complement the gracefully written prose. These books can be used with Tomie dePaola's The Cloud Book (Holiday, 1975) and Franklyn M. Branley's Down Comes the Rain (HarperCollins, 1997).--Linda L. Walkins, Mount Saint Joseph Academy, Brighton, MA.-- "School Library Journal"