Dragsters

Children's Literature

A reader-friendly profile of the fastest race cars in the world, this is part of the "Wild Rides!" series, which highlights dirt bikes, monster trucks, stock cars and other high-thrill toys. The book is simply written, yet packed with interesting facts about the history, techniques and even the costs of drag racing (as much as $100,000 to build a car, $400 for fuel for a single race!). The slender (32-page) book also touches on the science of drag racing, with terms like "aerodynamic" and "internal combustion" to intrigue young minds. Because it's so short, it might entice a reluctant but car-crazy reader into taking a chance on a book. Teachers might even be able to get a science lesson out of it. 2002, Capstone Press, $21.26. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Donna Freedman AGES: 8 9 10 11 12