11/01/2013
K-Gr 2—Internet safety basics are presented in clear, simple language for the youngest online users. The series balances enthusiasm about the Internet's educational and social benefits with cautionary advice such as, "A stranger you chat with could bother you." The otherwise competent writing falters in Be Nice, which contains vague statements (e.g., "Being nice is thinking about others' feelings") and devotes only two pages to online bullying. Address and Phone Number could have been combined into one title. The series avoids specifics when discussing websites and chat rooms, so it won't become dated quickly. However, the absence of computer graphics seems a missed opportunity to teach technological skills. The stock images of children are bland and repetitive. Although this series might not be strong enough to be used in its entirety, individual titles do a satisfactory job of sparking essential (and perhaps life-saving) conversations about safety practices.
