Book Review

Power Up ends with a final problem: five circuit diagrams, in each one a battery or two, a bulb or two and a wire or two. Only one will work; find it, and fix the others. That is how far you might get in this direct little book of flashlight batteries and bulbs…Series and parallel are worked out; and active problem-solving is encouraged…. The book opens a time-tried experience of real but safe electricity for boys and girls in the early grades.

~ Philip and Phylis Morrison, Scientific American excerpt

This is a good book for any students who wish to learn about electricity and try some simple, hands-on activities. The text is very informative and has pretty clear directions and diagrams.

~ Maria Palopoli, Science Teacher, Brunswick Junior High School

Did you ever wonder what was inside a battery? Or how light bulbs are made? What is the difference between series or parallel circuits? The author provides neat background facts and even a few jokes along with the experiments. This is not a quick or easy read, but is a nice book to explain the experiments that are frequently done with children, but not always understood by either children or their parents. The black and white pictures are a drawback and make this book less attractive to children.

~ Linda Oliver, Reference Librarian, Curtis Memorial Library