Maker Lab

June 13, 2016
Written in conjunction with the Smithsonian Institution, this book features more than two dozen hands-on experiments divided into four sections built around food, common household items, water, and the outdoors. Rated by difficulty level, the activities are clearly explained in both step-by-step instructions and accompanying color photographs. They include cooking marshmallows and baked Alaska, using tape and colored paper to make a double helix DNA model, creating a miniature ecosystem with a potted plant placed inside half of a plastic bottle; and making homemade bath fizzies using cream of tartar and baking soda. Fifteen-year-old Jack Andraka, who invented an early cancer detection test, contributes a foreword to this accessible and wide-ranging exploration of multiple aspects of the sciences. Ages 8–12.

August 1, 2016

Gr 3 Up-Spinning off of the popularity of maker spaces and capitalizing on the call for STEM-based products, this title offers a plethora of engaging projects that will capture the attention and curiosity of students from lower elementary (with guidance) through high school. Divided into four categories, "Food for Thought," "Around the Home," "Water World," and "The Great Outdoors," the projects are accompanied by clear directions, attractive photos, and the scientific principles behind each topic. The colorful, well-staged photos focus on the ingredients and steps involved in each project and are relatively timeless-looking-no trendy clothes to age the book later on and no photos of very young participants to turn off older readers. Some tasks, such as Sticky Slime, are familiar but still serve well as fun and educational learning experiences. Others, like Baked Alaska and sugar crystal lollipops, require a full kitchen, or a very strong Bunsen burner at least. Other projects, such as the DNA Model and Sensational Speakers, will appeal to older readers. With projects such as Bath Fizzies and Icy Orbs, this selection has something for everyone. VERDICT Public and school libraries should consider this volume for inventive students and quick event ideas.-Sarah Knutson, American Canyon Middle School, CA

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.