Science Book of Machines

The Science Book of

by Neil Ardley

Experiments illustrate mechanical principles

Library Binding

First published February 1, 1992

About the author

Neil Ardley was an English jazz composer, pianist, arranger, and acclaimed science writer whose career bridged music, education, and publishing. After studying chemistry at Bristol University, he moved to London and immersed himself in the city's thriving jazz scene, studying composition and arranging before becoming a central figure in modern British jazz. As director of the New Jazz Orchestra, he helped nurture a generation of influential musicians while developing a distinctive musical voice that blended jazz improvisation with classical forms. His albums, including Le Déjeuner sur l'Herbe, Greek Variations and Other Aegean Exercises, Symphony of Amaranths, and Kaleidoscope of Rainbows, earned critical praise for their ambitious orchestration and innovative use of electronic sounds. Alongside his musical work, Ardley built an equally successful career in publishing. Beginning as an editor, he went on to write more than one hundred books, many aimed at introducing young readers to science, technology, nature, and music. His best-known work, The Way Things Work, illustrated by David Macaulay, became an international bestseller and helped establish him as one of Britain's most successful popular science authors. By the time of his retirement, his books had sold millions of copies worldwide, securing his reputation as both an influential musician and an exceptional communicator of knowledge.

Reviews

[Adam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book of science experiments illustrating basic machines. Most supplies can be found around the house or rescued from the recycle bin--or purchased inexpensively at a craft store. For grades 2-4.