Curious Jane: Science + Design + Engineering for Inquisitive Girls

Gr 3–6—The concept behind this volume started with a summer camp in Brooklyn that was organized by Samantha Razook Murphy to encourage her daughters to "tinker, create, invent, and have fun!" The result is a well-organized, easy-to-follow, and heavily illustrated assortment of activities and craft ideas that can be done using readily available and generally affordable materials. Some activities are intended just for fun or to help kids build friendship through science. One such exercise is the "toss and talk ball," in which topics are written out on an inflatable ball meant to be tossed to others, who then answer the question closest to their right thumb. Others come with a brief but lucid explanation of the science involved. For instance, the directions for creating "fizzy bath bombs" are accompanied by information on why the bath bombs react when they are placed in the bathtub. Adult involvement is suggested when needed. Though aimed at girls, this title will also engage those who do not identify as female.