Wind Chimes and Whirligigs.

Janet Collins is a freelance writer in Sechelt, British Columbia.

Like other books in the Kids Can Do It series, the Wind Chimes and Whirligigs book provides excellent information and clearly illustrated step-by-step instructions that enable young readers to create a variety of wind-powered crafts from recycled materials and easy-to-find items such as tennis balls, kitchen utensils, and coat hangers.

Crafty kids will enjoy learning how to turn old CDs and binder clips into a funny bird that happily keeps a collection of keys where they can be easily found. Bonus: the keys hang together to form a wind-chime! Similarly, a plastic soft drink bottle can be transformed into a colourful variation of a wind sock with the help of a fork, a coat hanger, and some tennis balls. Don’t have a plastic soft drink bottle? Try using an old kitchen whisk instead.

Each of the 12 projects described in the book will enliven backyards, balconies, and windowsills as the wind-powered crafts are designed to whirl and chime in the breeze.

Thanks to the addition of a variety of projects incorporating a range of skill levels, readers will find much in both books to spark creative imaginations. While the projects are designed for individuals, they are easily undertaken by school art classes or groups such as Brownies or Cubs. Recommended.