Sciences

Scientific Explorer's The Magic Science Wizard's Kit
$19.99
Most of what our family experienced was as listed in the more favorible reviews. A bit messy, but easy to prepare for that and a great time was had by all. Most of the objects included are common household products, but this simply makes them conveniently at hand and easy to refill by not hiding the ingredients as generic magic powders.
A down side is the experiments seemed to be a bit repetitive, but the kids didn't mind as it was all so facinating to them.

The real downside? The smoking fingers trick was missing. Our first thought was a mischevious child made the card vanish using newfound magical abilities, but after searching online this seems to be a problem others have been having recently as well (ref: review at Barnes and Nobles web site) we're pretty certain that parts are being left out. While we find it incredible that this educational toy was able to make learning fun, it would be nice if we could perform ten magical activities as advertised instead of the nine actually available. I have to question the true value of any object's educational value when the company sending said product cannot count to ten.

A side note, the caps were not all that difficult to get on the ends of the wand. It just takes a little twisting and shifting, finesse rather than force.

Light: Science and Magic: An Introduction to Photographic Lighting
$39.95
The strength of this book is that it provides a totally different aspect in the study of light: that of geometry optics, which is quite useful.
The weakness is that it remains on the exact same subject for too long and most importantly, it does not provide the exact photographic setup utilized for each shot, a fact that I personally regard as a great disapponointment.

It is worth having it in your library, but don't expect a complete and sufficient guide to use light in your portrait or still photography.

Scientific Explorer's Spa Science Chemistry Kit
$19.99
My daughter really enjoys this kit. It is a fun way to have your child practice reading, measuring, mixing and understanding a few science concepts. In my opinion anything that gets them thinking (especially something fun that smells good!) is a good thing. Your little girl will enjoy this kit!

Scientific Explorer's Disgusting Science - A Kit for Studying the Science of Revolting Things
$19.99
Here is a fun way to introduce reluctant learners to science. Probably works well with willing learners too. The kids had a lot of fun with this and I would recommend it as a gift for any kid.