Age 10-14

This is a book for anyone who ever thought that physics was boring. It is a riveting and painless exposition of the history of the subject and the basic principles of forces, of matter and of light, explained (with some help from consultants) with exemplary clarity by Richard Hammond, who is better known as a co-presenter of the television series Top Gear. The book is spectacularly designed, and in such a way that every picture aids understanding. It also suggests some entertaining experiments that children can do at home with balloons or paper clips or bubbles to demonstrate the principles of physics for themselves. It draws on familiar experiences — such as riding a bike, or getting an electric shock from static — and leaves you with a grasp not only of what E=mc2 means, of the structure of atoms and of why the sky is blue, but also of why it is possible to lie on a bed of nails or walk across a swimming pool full of custard. This delightful, illuminating volume is one to go back to school with — to amaze friends and stay ahead of teachers.

(Dorling Kindersley £9.99)

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