Gonzo Gizmos

December 1, 2003
It's possible to use optics to roast a hot dog without electricity or a stove; to make a simple radio with just an iron, a few basic circuits and three shiny pennies; and to assemble a simple steam-powered boat with a plastic bottle, a candle, copper tubing and a nail. Of course, only die-hard science nerds would attempt these projects. But information systems specialist Field knows he's a geek, which is part of the charm of his science manual-cum-survival guide. Like Cy Tymony's recent Sneaky Uses for Everyday Things, Field's book does not depend on high-tech equipment. Most of the"shopping lists" he includes for each gizmo consist of items that can be found in hardware stores. His experiments range from the disarming (e.g., a plastic hydrogen bomb which, he admits,"sounds a bit dangerous" but can also function as"a high-tech squirt gun") to the useful (such as a"quicky electric motor"). Throughout, Field shares explanations of each process, with sidebars entitled"Why does it do that?"

June 1, 2004
Readers who wish they could build tiny cannons, cook hot dogs using the sun, or create a handheld radio transmitter are in luck. Field, an information systems specialist and "tireless tinkerer who collects science experiments," shows readers how to create these and other unusual gadgets using common materials. Several are wacky (e.g., a solar marshmallow roaster), but each illustrates important scientific principles (described in a "Why Does It Do That?" section). The projects explore magnetism, electromagnetism, electrochemistry, radios, thermodynamics, and light and optics, with later gizmos building upon what was learned in previous sections. Some of the experiments could be potentially dangerous because of heat-related hazards, but with adult supervision, they would be appropriate for kids of all ages. This title is ideal for science teachers who are looking for new ways to hold their students' interest and belongs in most collections.

Copyright 2004 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.