Electric Gadgets and Gizmos: Battery-Powered Buildable Gadgets That Go!

Christy Conte is a member of the Parents Advisory Committee at the
YMCA’s Parent and Child Enrichment Centre, and a journalist.

Electric Gadgets and Gizmos faces some stiff competition. In a world
where Nintendo and other electronic pastimes have become commonplace,
can a remote-controlled popsicle stick car sustain a child’s interest
for any length of time? Alan Bartholomew has put together a collection
of nine projects designed to turn kids on to the joys of making things
go. The book opens with descriptions of basic concepts such as buzzers,
switches, and battery connections. The rest of the book is devoted to
projects such as a flashlight, wiper glasses, a remote boat, the
“rumble box,” and, of course, the popsicle stick car. Directions in
each case are clearly numbered and illustrated, and include a materials
list.

For the most part, the projects result in interesting and occasionally
useful items. While the directions are straightforward, children at the
younger end of the suggested age range may find this sort of fiddly
electrical work more than they can manage without ample adult
assistance. Many of the required materials can be found around the
house. A number of projects require specialty items, such as plastic
tubing, water pumps, and motors, that must be purchased at hobby or
hardware stores.

Despite the few problems noted, this is a good electrical primer for
kids. Given the support of an interested adult, access to materials, and
a little ingenuity, the little wooden car could well give Super Mario a
run for his money. Recommended with reservations.