Gadgets

Children's Literature - Amy S. Hansen

Part of the "How it Works" series, Parker writes about the stuff that keeps my kids, and many other kids, busy. We learn about the calculator, personal computer, as well as video games consoles and satellite navigation systems. While web links are provided for more information, this book does a particularly good job of anticipating more questions, and answering them right away. For the calculator, Parker explains digital broadcasting: "Older television broadcasting was called analog. The information for the pictures and sounds was carried by the varying strength of the radio wave signals. In digital broadcasting, the information is coded in the form of on-off signals, millions every second." Each gadget is covered in a two-page spread with many pictures, long captions, and boxes of information. There are web links at the top of each double-page spread. While there is no strong narrative, Parker's tone is does a good job of pulling you into the exciting information. Backmatter includes an illustrated glossary, and index. Reviewer: Amy S. Hansen