Publishers Weekly (Fri Oct 06 00:00:00 CDT 2023)

Written in conjunction with the Smithsonian Institution, this book features more than two dozen hands-on experiments divided into four sections built around food, common household items, water, and the outdoors. Rated by difficulty level, the activities are clearly explained in both step-by-step instructions and accompanying color photographs. They include cooking marshmallows and baked Alaska, using tape and colored paper to make a double helix DNA model, creating a miniature ecosystem with a potted plant placed inside half of a plastic bottle; and making homemade bath fizzies using cream of tartar and baking soda. Fifteen-year-old Jack Andraka, who invented an early cancer detection test, contributes a foreword to this accessible and wide-ranging exploration of multiple aspects of the sciences. Ages 8-12. (July)

ALA Booklist (Fri Apr 01 00:00:00 CDT 2016)

With all the style and intellectual authority that readers would expect from the Smithsonian's DK series, this book affirms that science is not strictly a discipline to be studied behind a school desk, but rather is a demonstrable set of principles and properties that can be reinforced using simple found objects. This principle is eloquently supported in a forward written by Jack Andraka, a young scientist who pioneered new means of cancer detection at the age of fifteen. Directions are clear, materials are easily accessible, and results are rooted in fundamental principles of physics and chemistry. Each experiment can be completed at home, but is also easily adapted to a large-group classroom setting. Though not all projects are innovative, what sets this book apart is that each experiment is accompanied by real-world applications that tie new observations to kids' existing understanding and offer endless opportunities for STEM-related discussions. Not only are young scientists encouraged to experiment, they are challenged to apply the information gleaned to real-world problem-solving.

School Library Journal (Mon Aug 01 00:00:00 CDT 2016)

Gr 3 Up-Spinning off of the popularity of maker spaces and capitalizing on the call for STEM-based products, this title offers a plethora of engaging projects that will capture the attention and curiosity of students from lower elementary (with guidance) through high school. Divided into four categories, "Food for Thought," "Around the Home," "Water World," and "The Great Outdoors," the projects are accompanied by clear directions, attractive photos, and the scientific principles behind each topic. The colorful, well-staged photos focus on the ingredients and steps involved in each project and are relatively timeless-lookingno trendy clothes to age the book later on and no photos of very young participants to turn off older readers. Some tasks, such as Sticky Slime, are familiar but still serve well as fun and educational learning experiences. Others, like Baked Alaska and sugar crystal lollipops, require a full kitchen, or a very strong Bunsen burner at least. Other projects, such as the DNA Model and Sensational Speakers, will appeal to older readers. With projects such as Bath Fizzies and Icy Orbs, this selection has something for everyone. VERDICT Public and school libraries should consider this volume for inventive students and quick event ideas. Sarah Knutson, American Canyon Middle School, CA

Voice of Youth Advocates

Young inventors tend to start tinkering with whatever they have access to, and Smithonian Maker Lab offers twenty-eight experiments tailored specifically for them. Using ingredients most kids already have around the house, this book offers instructions for making invisible ink, sticky slime, stalactites, lollipops, and more! Each experiment is accompanied by an easy-to-follow explanation of the science behind the project. The author even takes time to offer alternatives so that kids can experiment by changing variables on their own. Challoner takes safety into consideration as well, making sure to let kids know when they may need help from an adult.This book is just plain fun. The instructions are simple and clear but include colorful photographs to support more visual learners. The scientific explanations are not overwhelming, offering just enough insight for a kid to understand the basics of the experiments. The book includes a wide variety of projects that will be sure to appeal to a wide audience, including projects that involve food, water, the outdoors, or objects around the house. Jack Andraka's foreword summarizes the scientific process, stressing that "we young scientists" have to start small before changing the world. Overall, this is a very fun and educational book, perfect for beginner scientists.Jen Baker.