Gonzo Gizmos: Projects & Devices to Channel Your Inner Geek

by Simon Quellen Field

Step-by-step instructions to building more than 30 fascinating devices are included in this book for workbench warriors and grown-up geeks. Detailed illustrations and diagrams explain how to construct a simple radio with a soldering iron, a few basic circuits, and three shiny pennies. Instructions are included for a rotary steam engine that requires a candle, a soda can, a length of copper tubing, and just 15 minutes. To use optics to roast a hot dog, no electricity or stove is required, just a flexible plastic mirror, a wooden box, a little algebra, and a sunny day. Also included are experiments most science teachers probably never demonstrated, such as magnets that levitate in midair, metals that melt in hot water, a Van de Graaff generator made from a pair of empty soda cans, and lasers that transmit radio signals. Every experiment is followed by an explanation of the applicable physics or chemistry.

Genres: Science, Nonfiction, How To

228 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another one of the weekend project books - there are many of them out there with varying degrees of technical understanding and facilities required - this is an intermediate book by my measure - it has some pretty simple experiments though you do need some specialist materials and help - for example there is soldering and the utilisation of both high voltages and high temperatures. That said the actual construction side of things is pretty straight forward although it is geared up for the US builder (there are references to materials and trade names which are just not available here in the UK). However if you are creative and determined enough there is not much you cannot build - and for this its a brilliant book which should be used to encourage those who are creative and who love engineering and science.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book on a list of best non-fiction books for children and young adults. What a fantastic book! If you have a child (or adult) that loves science, this book is a wonderful resource. Great science projects with very specific instructions and pictures are included and the best part, is the section 'Why does it do that?' which goes into the theory behind the experiments. My 10 year old son loves this book and reads it constantly. Can't wait to get the sequel...

[Frederick Bingham · Rating 3 out of 5]

A book of science projects to do at home. Instructions for building radios, film can cannons, laser communication devices, miniature electric motors, simple steam engines, etc.

[Israel Rogers · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not very good. A couple of fun projects. Mostly require stuff that not many people have access to without purchasing online. In fact every project in this book can easily be found online.

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

The same information (with color photos) is available on the author's website. Why buy the book?