Super science concoctions 50 mysterious mixtures for fabulous fun

Gr. 4^-6. This upbeat science activity book encourages children to play around in the "kitchen laboratory," mixing up concoctions and in the process learning about molecules in solution, chemical changes, and the qualities of water and other liquids as well as colloids, gels, and polymers. On every page, cartoonlike ink drawings illustrate the steps, processes, and results of various activities. Though the format is somewhat crowded, the cheerful tone of the book makes it an attractive choice for children and a good resource for teachers seeking science activities for the classroom. --Carolyn Phelan

K-Gr 6‘Solutions, mixtures, emulsions, and gels are but a few of the concoctions presented here. Although many of the projects in this volume are familiar, it is the logical arrangement of the material that sets it apart. A brief, concise, and lively explanation of the scientific method and inexpensive ways to set up a kitchen laboratory precede the actual experiments. Each chapter builds on information previously presented. Activities can be conducted separately, but the sequential logic of the text make this title valuable for teaching basic chemistry principles. Pen-and-ink cartoon illustrations are well placed, informative, and humorous. Safety precautions are emphasized. Super Science is more informative than Alan Kramer's How to Make a Chemical Volcano (Watts, 1991) and livelier than Robert Gardner's Kitchen Chemistry (Silver Burdett, 1989). So whether it's gooblek, thixotropic art, or a density necklace, this book makes basic chemistry fun.‘Kathryn Kosiorek, Cuyahoga County Public Library, Brooklyn, OH (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.