The Cutting-Edge Technology series zeros in on advances in engineering that have changed our world and continue to do so. Each book looks at a particular invention, from its conceptualization and development to its practical uses today and potential applications in the future. In addition to the main text, which is well organized and informative, each double-page spread includes colorful design elements such as photos, sidebars, and the occasional diagram. "Cutting-edge" can mean controversial, but that's not always the case here, depending on the topic and the writer's viewpoint. After discussing the historical context, methods, and applications of 3-D printing, 3-D Printers acknowledges a few concerns about the invention (its potential to replace jobs or print guns, for example) but ends on a positive note. Useful books for updating the engineering shelves.

BOW, James . Lasers . ISBN 9781482451580 ; ISBN 9781482451641 ; ISBN 9781482451528 . COLSON, Mary . GMOs . ISBN 9781482451573 ; ISBN 9781482451634 ; ISBN 9781482451511 . SPILSBURY, Louise . Drones . ISBN 9781482451566 ; ISBN 9781482451627 ; ISBN 9781482451504 . SPILSBURY, Louise &; Richard Spilsbury . Maglev Trains . ISBN 9781482451597 ; ISBN 9781482451658 ; ISBN 9781482451535 . SPILSBURY, Louise &; Richard Spilsbury . Robotics . ISBN 9781482451603 ; ISBN 9781482451665 ; ISBN 9781482451542 . ea vol: 48p. (Cutting-Edge Technology). further reading. glossary. index. photos. websites. Gareth Stevens . Aug. 2016. lib. ed. $31.95. pap. $14.05. ebk. $31.95. Gr 5-8 For research or for pleasure, these books are an excellent resource for students who are curious about the most innovative and current technology. High-interest points of interest, from 3-D printers to drones, will capture and hold audience attention, not only because of each topic's novelty but through engaging writing that encourages readers to think critically. Generally alternating between a text-laden page and a full-color photo, the titles explore each subject from concept to reality and impart little-known facts, such as how scientists in 1960 combined neon and helium to create the first gas laser ( Lasers ), that will undoubtedly help report writers. Geometrically shaped sidebars add even more specifics as well as visual interest, while graphic features encourage students to make connections.