Science Magic With Sound (Science Magic Series)

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6This book demonstrates 10 magic tricks that rely on the basic properties of sound. Each one is allotted a double-page spread that includes a list of materials, preparations (oddly, they come after the description of the trick), easy-to-follow instructions, and a brief outline of the science involved. Labeled, full-color diagrams and photographs of young performers help to clarify directions and explanations, but contribute to a somewhat cluttered look. An introductory section on being an expert magician and a concluding section on making costumes and backdrops round out the volume. Some of the props, such as a cassette player with headphones and tapes, a music-box mechanism, and plastic tubing may not be readily available and may require adult assistance in acquiring them. One stunt calls for papier-mch, but doesn't say how to make it or what you do with it. The science here definitely takes a backseat to magic, but the book is an entertaining way to introduce the physics of sound and may stimulate some children to pursue the subject further.Carolyn Angus, The Claremont Graduate School, CA