Marvelous Transforming Toys [Paperback]

Many wooden toys are quaint reminders of bygone days which, unfortunately, frequently appeal more to adults than to the children for whom they are intended. Makowicki's "marvelous" toys should have a special draw; six basic "systems" (autos, trucks, boats, houses, planes, and ships) allow kids to create a huge variety of toys out of wooden parts. The instructions show numerous techniques for working safely with small parts and are supplemented by excellent drawings and photographs. The designs are attractive, and the quality compares to the popular and expensive Brio toys. This title is perfect for those on a budget, as it will allow them to use the many wood scraps they have accumulated over the years. A fine addition to every woodworking collection.
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.

It is almost impossible to count the number of variations on the six toy systems industrial designer Makowicki has created--unlike Making Heirloom Toys (1996),^B his first book, which featured 22 items to fashion. Why the lack of exact projects? Because he's designed components that can be assembled in different ways, leading to the word "transforming" (a slightly better adjective than "educational"). A boat can become a cabin cruiser; a Noah's Ark can become a tugboat or just plain putt-putt; while ships (more challenging and larger objects) can sail into major cruise liners. Four other systems--trucks, houses, planes, and vehicles--offer a similar wealth of choices, and build on solid construction, woodworking know-how, and down-to-earth detailed instructions. For devoted hobbyists (and grandparents) with dedicated workshops. Barbara Jacobs
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved