'Science is measurement' was one of the topics I got used to arguing fluently for and against during my 'A' level years; now here's the concept hallowed at infant level in four volumes devoted to qualitative and quantitative differences, an ability to observe which is basic to the furtherance of any sort of science (there, I told you I was fluent).

Where is it? deals with positional words - up/down, through/between; Is it Shiny? looks and feels texture and substance - stretchy/springy, wet/dry. Energy and its effects condition Bounce to cover go/stop, lift/press etc., and Heavy is the measurement one - long/short, thick/thin, full/empty.

All volumes share a thoughtful choice of basic words, excellently illustrative photographs and extremely clear demonstrative sentences, for example: 'Lou's glass is full of milk; Lou has drunk the milk - his glass is empty' (with a lovely white moustache to show there's no deception). Add to this a refreshing choice of concept-portraying subjects and a bunch of multi-racial kids to show them off and you've got something really valuable. Of course they don't have to be used as 'Language of Science' texts - they can be nice books for any infant purpose, but do check them out - they're lovely.