Trapeze, Perch Poles, and Other High-Flying Circus Science

November 1, 2017

Gr 5-8-Step right up for an exciting glimpse into the inner workings of circus performances and wonders. In each book, information is presented very effectively and enticingly, with definitions provided at the bottom of their page and "Circus Fact" callouts. Photographs of the circus are aesthetically pleasing. An appropriately titled segment, "Don't try this at home, try this instead," suggests experiments for thrill-seeking readers to mimic the death-defying stunts featured but on a much smaller scale (e.g., a water bottle rocket as opposed to a human cannonball). Safety is also discussed throughout. Visual presentation is exceptional; titles are also well organized, with numerous nonfiction text features. VERDICT Highly recommended for libraries where science, entertainment, and the circus are popular.

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

October 1, 2017
Grades 4-7 Presented as if the reader is in the stands of the big top, this title in the Circus Science series places aerialists in the spotlight, along with the science that keeps them aloft. First up is the swinging trapeze, which demonstrates force, gravity, and friction through its pendulumlike motion, whereas static trapeze emphasizes a performer's balance (i.e., center of mass). Friction is key to an aerialist's ability to climb silks and corde lisse (rope); meanwhile, aerial hoop takes torque and angular momentum for a spin. The narrative text describes the movements of each performer, before highlighting the science in play. This is less about understanding exactly how this science works as it is about identifying the concepts and forces at workseveral of which readers can test through suggested activities. A fun entry point for physics lessons.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)