Labcraft Wizards: Magical Projects and Experiments - Softcover

John Austin is a professional toy designer and author of the MiniWeapons of Mass Destruction series, as well as So Now You’re a Zombie. He lives in Chicago.

Gr 6 Up—A collection of 35 activities geared toward curious would-be wizards. A recipe for "ogre snot," which is made from gelatin and corn syrup, boasts magical mending qualities when applied to the skin, but acquiring it from ogres can be tricky. Each activity is accompanied by illustrated diagrams to help guide readers. Cartoon, cloak-adorned teenagers partake in the fun. Written instructions provide a step-by-step guide to support the images, but adult supervision is recommended when using a hot glue gun, cutting, or working with heat. Most items can easily be found (tape, glitter, cardboard, toothpicks), but a few will need to be specially purchased (cream of tartar, liquid starch). The first chapter prepares young wizards with tools of the trade crafts: a magic wand, a wand storage box, a smoke ring launcher to communicate with other wizards, etc. Subsequent chapters offer things to do or make in the exploration of mythical creatures, charms, potions, enchantments, and tricks. Science concepts are introduced (for instance, condensation in "cloud in a jar" and capillary action in "moving star"), but the primary goal is to have fun fantasizing. VERDICT Use this spellbinding selection to introduce students to science through play and for book club activities with a magical or fantasy theme.—Sandra Welzenbach, Villarreal Elementary School, San Antonio