Author Lynne Berry and illustrator Matthew Cordell team up in this lighthearted picture-book examination of Archimedes' principle, AKA the physical law of buoyancy. As Archie the goat attempts to get across the moat, aided by his assistant, Skinny the Hen, he finds that an empty barrel is as futile as a full one. The latter sinks, and the former is unstable. Finally, after a few tries, he discovers that a half-empty barrel is just the ticket...

With a humorous story-line, a (sometimes) rhyming text, and appealing artwork from Caldecott medalist Cordell, What Floats in a Moat? is an engaging picture-book, one that can be read simply as an entertaining tale, but that can also be used to explain and explore the idea of buoyancy with younger children. Skinny Hen's reactions are particularly amusing here, and I can see the back-and-forth between her and Archie making this an excellent read-aloud selection at story-time. Recommended to anyone looking for engaging children's stories that explain scientific concepts, as well as to those just looking for amusing picture-book romps. ( )

“Hey, kids! Want to learn about Archimedes’ principle?”

You’d never figure that to be a crowd pleaser, but, it is. I tried it with nearly 20 different classrooms full of 2nd and 3rd graders who could not wait to guess what would happen each time Archie set sail. What Floats in a Moat? begs to be shared. It is a silly, funny, rhyming tale of trial and error as Archie the Goat and Skinny the Hen try to cross a moat in a barrel that is in turns full, empty, and finally, just right. If there is a more fun way to learn about Archimedes’ Principle, it surely involves actual water! In fact, an entire program could be built around this book if you had a tub of water and a few film canisters or other barrel stand-ins. If you’re looking for a funny and entertaining way to incorporate science, this is it.

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Quite the funny, cute book! This one struck a chord with me. Love that it teaches science, too! ( )

Science and silliness; nice wording ( )