Virtual Reality: Computers Mimic the Physical World (Facts on File Science Sourcebooks)

Recounts the origins of virtual reality systems, describes how the devices work, discusses how the technique is used in architecture, engineering, business, education, and the military, and considers the problems it may cause and its probable future

Grade 6 Up-Virtual Reality is one of those areas in which new advances are being made daily. Therefore, any book becomes out-of-date as soon as it is printed. That said (and it is also acknowledged by the author in a note at the end of the book), this is an excellent look at this evolving area. Starting with the very beginning of the concept in the 1800s (yes, 1800sAthe stereoscope was the first attempt at a virtual experience), this book follows the advances made in this science as computers became more sophisticated. Grady examines pioneers in the field and explores the areas in which this technology has had an impact, such as architecture, medicine, business, education, the military, and entertainment. Its drawbacks and future are also discussed. Black-and-white photographs of both the equipment and what it looks like inside virtual worlds are scattered throughout. The glossary, list for further reading, and index make this title useful for reports as well as for general interest. Readers will find it more up-to-date and more detailed than Ann E. Weiss's Virtual Reality (21st Century Bks., 1996).
Yapha Nussbaum Mason, Brentwood Lower School, Los Angeles
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

In the Science Sourcebook series, a clear and sensible approach to the wonders and mysteries of virtual reality, including its history and some possible scenarios for the future. Grady compares the state of virtual reality to the situation of television in its earliest years: Everyone thought it was great, but it was wildly expensive, and the technology had not yet caught up to the possibilities. He takes a tour through virtual reality's history, and describes its current uses, still in their infancy, in medicine, architecture, business, science, and, of course, fun and games. He writes quite accurately about the function of virtual realityessentially to fool the mind and body into creating a multidimensional experience from computers, software, and devices. While he doesn't delve deeply into the philosophical questions raised by this fascinating medium, he does mention them, and presents a coherent picture of the technology to date. (b&w illustrations, photographs, index, not seen, glossary, bibliography) (Nonfiction. 12-14) -- Copyright ©1998, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.