Labcraft Wizards

September 1, 2016

Gr 6 Up-A collection of 35 activities geared toward curious would-be wizards. A recipe for "ogre snot," which is made from gelatin and corn syrup, boasts magical mending qualities when applied to the skin, but acquiring it from ogres can be tricky. Each activity is accompanied by illustrated diagrams to help guide readers. Cartoon, cloak-adorned teenagers partake in the fun. Written instructions provide a step-by-step guide to support the images, but adult supervision is recommended when using a hot glue gun, cutting, or working with heat. Most items can easily be found (tape, glitter, cardboard, toothpicks), but a few will need to be specially purchased (cream of tartar, liquid starch). The first chapter prepares young wizards with tools of the trade crafts: a magic wand, a wand storage box, a smoke ring launcher to communicate with other wizards, etc. Subsequent chapters offer things to do or make in the exploration of mythical creatures, charms, potions, enchantments, and tricks. Science concepts are introduced (for instance, condensation in "cloud in a jar" and capillary action in "moving star"), but the primary goal is to have fun fantasizing. VERDICT Use this spellbinding selection to introduce students to science through play and for book club activities with a magical or fantasy theme.-Sandra Welzenbach, Villarreal Elementary School, San Antonio

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 1, 2016
Grades 4-7 With a wave of a wand, a few choice words, and some everyday household items, the secrets of walking water, a dancing candle, and ogre snot are revealed. The narrative tone stays true to the magical theme, with playful explanations of uses for the magical formulas, and pictures of diverse witches and wizards casting spells and brewing potions. The experiments and creations are broken up into step-by-step instructions, in both words and pictures, and they're easy to understand without making readers feel condescended to. Though both art and science projects are featured, overall, the science experiments seem to be stronger, since they have more of a wow factor, which would be useful in classroom settings. The science behind the magic is part of the instructions, and it provides enough grounding to aid comprehension without losing the magic of the overall effect. Keep this one close at handit's screaming to be used for a Harry Potterthemed program or party and would fit well in the classroom or in a public library.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)