Making Books That Fly, Fold, Wrap, Hide, Pop Up, Twist, and Turn: Books for Kids to Make

Presents instructions for making various kinds of books including those that carry messages across space and time as well as those that save words, ideas, and pictures

Grade 4-7-An interesting, unusual collection of crafts. Diehn explains that books are containers for messages, information, or ideas, and suggests that there are many shapes they may take. She gives general and specific ideas for making nontraditional books: those for carrying messages, for celebrating and marking occasions, for recording memories and thoughts, and for storing photographs or sketches. Throughout, sidebars provide information on the history of books. Materials needed are listed, and detailed step-by-step directions are provided. When an awl or Exacto knife is required, adult assistance is suggested. Some of the projects are complex, but clear line drawings accompany the instructions and full-color photographs show the finished products. What is wonderful about this title is the author's ability to interest and convince readers that they, too, can become creators. Children will use this title to make books for fun or assignments. Teachers can find ways to incorporate it into their history, science, or math curriculum. Great ideas for inspiring projects.
Susan Lissim, Dwight School, New York City
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Gr. 4^-8. Students familiar with Ed Young's Mouse Match (1997) may be looking for information on how to create their own accordion-folded books. Diehn's latest title is just the ticket. It will also be a valuable resource for classroom teachers and students who need information on the history of books or ideas for creative ways to present their writing or record memories. An introductory section describes how to set up a work space, lists materials, and offers suggestions for displaying text and illustrating books. Clear directions and diagrams and attractive full-color photographs of completed projects will make it easy for readers to duplicate 18 different folded, wrapped, and pop-up books. Historical fact boxes provide a surprising amount of book lore. Unfamiliar terms are defined in the text, and Diehn also supplies a glossary. Chris Sherman