Build It

Gr 5–7—These short volumes show readers how to create seven to eight "inventions." Enz starts each book with "The Six Step of Inventing" ("Problem," "Principle," "Ideas," "Plan," "Create," and "Improve"). Unfortunately, the steps do not naturally fit each project. For example, the "Problem" for the "Penny Battery" invention is that "It seems like every time you need to use a gadget, its battery is dead," yet the battery created will not be useful in traditional battery-operated items. Although couched in this sometimes awkward framework, the projects are interesting and educational. They vary in difficulty from simple activities that can be accomplished by a child without assistance using household items, to complex projects that require specialized parts, such as a voltmeter, power tools, and considerable adult involvement. Each project is explained with clear instructions and illustrated with color photographs of the process and final product.