Two Hundred Illustrated Science Experiments for Children

School Library Journal

Gr 5-9 A return of `` gee whiz '' science experiments, reminiscent of experi ment books of the '50s and '60s, but updated for the '80s. Each experiment is briefly oulined and followed by an explanation of what happens. Because Brown checked explanations with sci entists, experiments misinterpreted in other books are correctly interpreted in this volume. While experiments are collected in chapters on light, biology, and mechanics, each experiment is in dependent of the last. Therefore, chil dren can pick and choose any experi ment that strikes their fancy. The emphasis is on children playing with science, rather than developing certain concepts. Brown issues appropriate safety warnings and avoids dangerous experiments. However, the illustra tions look like line drawings from 1950. Boys are in jackets and ties, girls are in dresses, and none show any features characteristic of American racial and ethnic minority groups. It's unfortunate that a book that deservedly will be pop ular with young readers shouldn't do more to invite a wider audience to join the fun. Alan Newman, Johns Hop kins University, Baltimore