Spooky Characters

K-Gr 3—In this slim volume, readers are presented with step-by-step instructions for creating 16 ghoulish clay figures. Introductory matter includes a listing of required materials, followed by detailed descriptions of basic techniques. Instructions for each project are represented by illustrations and accompanied by high-quality photographs of the completed figures. Patterns are included where needed. Despite its slender nature, this book encompasses quite a lot, opening a world of possibilities in basic modeling-clay techniques. Its pictographic nature makes it possible for crafters to create the projects without necessarily reading the directions, an interesting feature for the children, or for adults and youngsters working simultaneously. One drawback is the occasional awkwardness in page layout; some illustrative directions are misleadingly placed next to written instructions with which they do not coincide. Both written and illustrative steps are numbered, possibly in an attempt to rectify this and to guide readers, yet it remains cumbersome at times. In spite of its formatting flaws, this would be a satisfactory purchase for crafting sections.—Rebecca Gueorguiev, New York Public Library