Book Review

In structured and readable drawings, big and little, this talented illustrator has visually taken apart and reassembled hundreds of contrivances--machines that move, devices for controlling air, fire and water, sound and light and electronics. A reader of any age can follow these diagrams and explanatory paragraphs, … That is by no means all. Across many pages, some in color, the matter-of-fact information is complemented by a continued whimsical frieze of hard-working gymnastic mammoths, …If elaborate whimsy bothers you at all, this book is to be avoided; most readers, particularly young ones, will enjoy the fun time after time...

~ Philip and Phylis Morrison, excerpt from Scientific American review of original (1989) edition

The New Way Things Work was one title selected by acclaim by the Cornerstones of Science review committee. All who have read it felt that this book distills the essence of a children’s Cornerstone book, a great read with terrific illustrations, one that makes the reader feel that she or he understands and "owns" the material at the end. This title is most appropriate for strong readers from the middle to late elementary grades, but will be of interest to general readers from 9 to 90.

~ Linda Oliver, Reference Librarian, Curtis Memorial Library