From School Library Journal
Grade 4-8 For many students, the answer to the question posed in the title will be ``By reading Asimov's book,'' for there are no other juvenile books on this subject available for them. Asimov recounts scientific advances, beginning with Fahrenheit's 1714 thermometer, that have led to the discovery of superconductivity. Because the concept of superconductivity is relatively easy to understand, and because it has not yet been put to widespread use, much of the book is historical in nature. The discussion of why superconductivity is not yet practical, and the benefits it may someday provide, is brief but adequate. Asimov's conversational prose style maintains interest and promotes clear understanding. The illustrations and diagrams are disappointing; all black-and-white drawings, the portraits of scientists lack distinctive characterizations, and the diagrams, while clear, are dull. There is no glossary; unfamiliar terms are generally explained in the text. An adequate supplement to encyclopedia articles. Allen Meyer, Vernon Area Public Library District, Prairie View, Ill.
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.