Out of the Box

March 13, 2017
Westing, a paper engineer and book designer, proves just how much cardboard can do in more than 20 projects inspired by her not-for-profit BrilliantBuilds workshops. Among them: transforming toilet paper tubes into brightly colored (and adorable) owl figures, building a geodesic “dome den” for the backyard, and creating wearable robot costumes. (The accompanying photograph shows two kids engaged in a face-off reminiscent of Rock ’em Sock ’em Robots, though children who attempt this project may want to be more careful with their own handiwork.) The ambitiousness of the projects varies greatly—from a modest vase of hand-painted cardboard flowers to elaborate masks, games, and race cars; difficulty levels are noted, and small photographs help make the steps of each project clear. With equal emphasis on construction and decoration, it’s a book pitched at both sides of a child’s brain. Ages 7–10.

May 1, 2017

Gr 3 Up-Westing explores the art of crafting and building with recycled cardboard packaging. Moving beyond typical dollhouses, playhouses, and race cars, the author provides detailed projects that will help kids develop fine motor skills through cutting, drawing, rolling, bending, folding, and more. The crafts spark creativity and inquiry and move students beyond storebought toys. The content spans the seasons: the "ring toss challenge" and "balancing butterflies" are great options for spring and summer, while children will enjoy making the "cardboard theater" on colder days. The colorful imagery and thorough instructions will pique the interest of upper elementary students and older kids alike. Younger children could complete these crafts with assistance, and these projects would also fit well with art and math lessons on shape, proportion, and ratios. Projects such as the "hero's helmet" and "pharaoh's finery" would supplement literature and history classes. The few photos feature a diverse group of children. VERDICT With such a rich mix of possible applications-from science to literature, math to art, and social studies to engineering-this bright and engaging book is a first purchase for elementary and middle schools and public libraries.-Sarah Knutson, American Canyon Middle School, CA

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.