Simple Machines. Deborah Hodge. Photographs by Ray Boudreau. Toronto, ON: Kids Can Press, 1996. 32 pp., hardcover, $11.95. ISBN 1-55074-311-2. Subject Heading: Simple machines-Experiments-Juvenile literature. Kindergarten - grade 4 / Ages 5 - 9. Review by Gerri F. Young. **** /4

Books in the Starting with Science series are bright, pretty and useful, and Simple Machines is no exception. Simple Machines shows young children that, with the help of six simple machines - the lever, wheel and axle, pulley, inclined plane, screw, and wedge, they can do something "impossible."

      Thirteen colourfully photographed experiments challenge children to lift a friend without touching them, do a balancing act, find out how wheels help move things, have a bubble race, an egg drop, a penny lift, twirl a toy, make a mystery machine, and more. Each chapter is illustrated with a full-page photo of the children doing the experiment.

      The fresh-faced children pictured represent a wide variety of cultures, and are shown enjoying themselves while learning. While no adults appear in the book, it is understood one is nearby teaching!

      Deborah Hodge is a curriculum designer in Vancouver. She has presented her subject well. The book may seem too simple to some, but it is not. Something bright and cheerful like this is a great way to interest students. Their over-stimulated minds demand colour and simplicity.

Recommended.

Gerri F. Young works in Fort Nelson, B.C.

To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.

Copyright © 1997 the Manitoba Library Association. Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without permission.

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The Manitoba Library Association
ISSN 1201-9364

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