Make Cool Gadgets for Your Room
By Amy Pinchuk
Reviewed by Margaret Buckworth

From building their own decoding machine, or an alarm to stop siblings from snooping, this book contains projects that will appeal to the nine to 14-year-old group that it targets. However, it should come with some cautions. A fair degree of supervision and guidance will be needed to complete some of the projects.

Although the colourful, multicultural illustrations are easily understood and the directions are in a clear and easy-to-follow format, I would recommend that teachers read and completely familiarize themselves with the material before undertaking any of these projects with their class. Some of the materials would also necessitate a trip to the local hardware store.

That said, it is a fun book that will excite students, and any of the projects would be a great hit in science or art class.

Make Cool Gadgets For Your Room, Toronto, 2001; ISBN 1-894379-12-8; softcover, 64 pages, $12.95; Owl Books; 416-304-0702, ext.309; fax 416-304-0525; cburns@owlbooks.on.ca Also in the Popular Mechanics for Kids series: Make Amazing Toys and Game Gadgets ISBN 1-894379-14-4; softcover, 64 pages, $12.95.

Margaret Buckworth teaches a Grade 2/3 split at Rivendall Hall International School and a Grade 1 Japanese class for the Toronto District School Board.