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Why should kids get to have all the science summer fun? As I was searching out some cool science books for kids last month, I came across a recommendation for a book targeted at dads and BOOM, a post was born. Here is a selection of science books for adults that I found at my local library.
If you have a science fan in the house of any age, they may still enjoy these. My 10 year old son has been pouring through them and making lists of things to do with his summer break.
Theo Gray’s Mad Science: Experiments You Can Do at Home – But Probably Shouldn’t by Theodore Gray – Some of the projects in this one are WAY cool. Like using a grill to make a glass ornament from sand.
The Elements: A Visual Exploration of Every Known Atom in the Universe by Theodore Gray – This one has my son asking where he can purchase things like tellurium and neptunium. This has taken his creativity to a whole new level.
Absinthe and Flamethrowers: Projects and Ruminations on the Art of Living Dangerously by William Gurstelle – There is not a lot of illustrations in this book, which make it more of an adult book in our house.
Backyard Ballistics, 2nd edition by William Gurstelle – This is the perfect summer project for the 8 year old boy in all of us. Potato cannons, paper match rockets, Cincinnati fire kites, and more. Lots of things to blow up in this one.
The Geek Dad Book for Aspiring Mad Scientists by Ken Denmead – A lot of science projects in this one, geared more for an adult to do with kids.
The Practical Pyromaniac by William Gurstelle – This one appeals to me the most. I kind of love fire. This book is really cool.
Unbored: The Essential Field Guide to Serious Fun by Joshua Glenn & Elizabeth Foy Larsen – There is lots of info in this book. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea with things like farting games, however the book is full of fun things and is written to be funny to kids of all ages. There are sections on architectural styles and details, turn your home into a spa, and backyard forts and shelter building. The book is loaded with fun. As for science, there is information on flame colors, cooking, and lots more.
Made by Dad: 67 Blueprints For Making Cool Stuff by Scott Bedford – Lots of colors and illustrations in this book. These are really fun projects and there is even a section that has suggestions for things to build for mom, too.
Mini Weapons of Mass Destruction by John Austin – This series of books will appeal to most boys I know. These models work, too. Our library had the third volume available and it is one of my son’s favorites. Volume 1 and 2 are currently waiting on hold for us.
About Vicki Arnold
I must get Made By Dad. What a perfect Father’s Day gift!
That was my 8 year old daughter’s favorite, lol!