Review by Booklist Review
Physics can be fun, and science can be magical. With these basic tenets in mind, this book presents step-by-step experiments that are so engaging they might be confused for play! Brown takes inspiration from questions that children often have about the world around them and uses inquiry and curiosity as the basis of each experiment. Each chapter deals with a specific concept of physical science, including thermodynamics, force, and sound and light waves. Readers are guided through the experiments by brightly drawn fictional scientist Dr. Dazz, and after each project, the science involved is explained by cartoon versions of Galileo Galilei, Isaac Newton, and Albert Einstein. Each experiment is comprised of easy-to-find materials, and tricky steps are well illustrated. Brown's enthusiasm for physics is palpable in the text, which is replete with exclamation points. Whether launching a rocket made from a tea bag, or annoying family and friends with a symphony of cacophonic drinking-straw instruments, young readers will find Brown's approach irresistible.--Anderson, Erin Copyright 2016 Booklist
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Brown and Owsley follow 2012's Crazy Concoctions with another engaging collection of science experiments, this time centered around physics. Playing host to readers' explorations is Dr. Dazzleberry, an enthusiastic physicist/magician in a rhinestone-studded tuxedo, who is joined by cartoon representations of Galileo Galilei, Isaac Newton, and Albert Einstein. Brown includes 25 experiments, spread out over seven chapters devoted to gravity, magnetism, sound, light, and more. Motion-related experiments include creating a marshmallow catapult out of wooden craft sticks and using centripetal force to cause a penny to whiz around the inside of a balloon, à la a planet's orbit (sections titled "The Science Behind the Stunt" explain the forces at work behind each "trick"). Sidebars discussing real-life applications of physics (such as the record-breaking speeds of Japan's Maglev trains) round out this hands-on look at science in action. Ages 8-12. (Jan.) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.
(c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
Review by Horn Book Review
Hokey narrative caricatures of Galileo, Isaac Newton, and Albert Einstein join fictional physicist Dr. Dazz in presenting twenty-five physics experiments (some requiring an "adult sidekick") in seven themed chapters (e.g., "Take That, Gravity!"). Accompanied by cartoony illustrations, the experiments use mostly everyday items, and a "Science Behind the Stunt" explanation follows each; additional asides address tangential physical science topics. Glos., ind. (c) Copyright 2017. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
Showman Dr. Dazzleberry and his friends Galileo, Newton, and Einstein demonstrate and explain 25 astonishing science tricks. In seven engaging chapters, this collection of science explorations spotlights traditional physical phenomena: gravity, motion, heat, magnets, sound, light, and electricity. Clear instructions for each demonstration are laid out like a recipe, with a list of easily obtainable necessary materials and step-by-step directions. These are followed by "The Science Behind the Stunt," humorously explained in a simple but usually accurate first-person narration from one of the scientists. Some tricks are very easy; others require more time and practice and, occasionally, the supervision of an "adult sidekick." Other precautionary measures suggested include fully reading directions and wearing eye protection or glasses and washing hands where appropriate. Some projects may be familiar, but others are likely to be new and intriguing. Not every trick will work the first time, Dr. Dazz reminds his readers. Sometimes trial and error as well as practice are necessary. Sidebars add extra information sure to appeal to intended readers, such as an after-Halloween Punkin Chunkin contest in Delaware and a rock band made up of deaf musicians. Helpful cartoonlike illustrations feature a diverse cast including the African-American Dr. Dazz, whose showmanship is only exceeded by his sense of humor. Magical science that's amazing, astounding, and sure to appeal to middle-grade and middle school readers. (biographies, glossary, index) (Nonfiction. 8-14) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
