Chemistry Projects with a Laboratory You Can Build

* Reviews *

Two interactive science books. Gardner begins both volumes with a brief discussion of their subjects, then defines science fairs and stresses the importance of going beyond these initial experiments if one expects to enter an actual competition. The scientific method is described in a fair amount of detail, and there is a serious discussion of safety issues. Experiments that require adult supervision are clearly marked, and readers are often directed to a science teacher for one or more of the listed items. The projects can be a bit overwhelming for students to tackle independently, but they will find the you will need lists quite useful. In Astronomy, students should be familiar and confident with math. In Chemistry, they need a certain understanding of chemical equations. The digitally rendered diagrams are helpful in clarifying the written directions. These volumes are involving and entertaining, but they might work best in a classroom setting., School Library Journal April 2008