Pranklab

February 1, 2021
A book that includes instructions for pranks and the science behind how and why they work. An introductory note to readers explains that evidence of pranks goes back hundreds of years and that one must be sure the victim is ready to be pranked before proceeding. Four sections follow. In "Making a Mess," pranksters are taught the science of preparing exploding ketchup and erupting cola. In "Wanna Bet?" readers learn to use cheater's dice and play mind games that make them appear clairvoyant. "Clean Classics" are for dedicated jokesters with time to prepare stunts, such as fake spills, ahead of time. "Messing With a Mind," which involves subjects' psychological responses, contains the least risky and perhaps most interesting proposals. Each prank is set up with a shopping list; ratings of how funny, messy, dangerous, and scientific it is; warnings to remember; and illustrated instructions. Two-page spreads offer notes on related science topics, ideas for taking the prank to the next level, and reflection questions for readers. While the variety of pranks may offer something for everyone, the collection is heavy on messiness. The (light) science is explained in a user-friendly way, offering some benefit as a fun way to learn. Many of the pranks will annoy and, if warnings are not heeded, may damage possessions; pranksters might learn as much about reading social cues as they do about science. Proceed with caution. (glossary) (Nonfiction. 10-14)

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March 15, 2021
Grades 4-7 This diabolical set of extremely messy science pranks should delight kids. Twenty-five projects rate their degrees of mess, funniness, and danger, identify appropriate victims (Dad, sibling, math teacher), and include ""Warnings for Future Me"" (safety and clean-up tips, plus hints on how not to get grounded for life). There's also science: physics, chemistry, thermodynamics, probability, and some yucky biology. Scientific principles are woven into the irreverent step-by-step directions and commentary, and bright graphics fill the pages with humorous illustrations and colored boxes containing real-world correlations and trivia bits. Each activity ends with a prank review, where pranksters are encouraged to assess the effectiveness of their caper and review the associated science that made it possible. Some tricks are classics (exploding Mentos, magic coins); others are fiendish (sabotaged remotes, fake milk-spills on keyboards); most, with a little practice, can be pulled off independently by determined perpetrators. This is a fun twist on standard science-fair manuals, and will enhance STEM collections. Just make sure to have plenty of paper towels on hand.

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April 1, 2021

Gr 6 Up-This book by Fairclough, Chris Ferrie, and Byrne LaGinestra blends lessons on science with instructions on how to play practical jokes on friends and family. Guidelines about pranking others (don't ruin their clothes; make it fun; clean up your mess) are shared in the introduction. The 25 pranks are organized into four sections: "Making a Mess," "Wanna Bet?," "Clean Classics," and "Messing with a Mind." Some experiments are silly, some are messy, and others might be a little tricky. Each prank is covered in four spreads. The first page rates the prank according to who would make the perfect victim; there's also a rating scale that determines how much of a mess is involved, the danger level, funniness, and science. Some include a difficulty rating. Readers will appreciate a shopping list (most items can be found in the household pantry) and a section for notes to a "future self" on what worked and what didn't. The authors then guide pranksters through several steps, from start to finish. The third spread provides an explanation of how or why it worked. The last spread offers "Next Level" ideas, additional science information, and a "prank review." "Did you know?" comments are sprinkled throughout. The illustrations are digitally rendered. Some pranks are easily explained; others require math calculations to show how the probabilities worked. A lengthy glossary defines in-depth science and math vocabulary. This title is best used with adult guidance. VERDICT The book's concept is encouraging and playful, but it is not a text that most kids will seek out at a library. Purchase if additional funds are available to upgrade science experiment collections.-Sandra Welzenbach, Villarreal Elem. Sch., San Antonio

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