Reviewed by Ralph Peterson
I really enjoyed this great introduction to the science of weaponry for younger readers. It is interesting, informative, and up to date. The pictures will intrigue younger readers and the text is easy to follow and understand.
As in all publications, there are some concepts that might require clarification. The text says air resistance slows the bullet to the point that, along with gravity, it falls to the ground. Without air resistance, it is going to fall to the ground anyway, due solely to gravity, as bullets do not reach escape velocity. In another place the text talks about many types of grenades but the original one, blasting shrapnel into the enemy. A third section talks about centrifugal force, when the word inertia should be used, instead. These are small things, but we need to use proper terms when working with young people so misconceptions are kept to a minimum.
Overall, I found it an interesting and fun book and would recommend it to interested, young readers. It covers an area of science that is rarely available at this level.
Review posted on 5/22/2012
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