The Spark Files 8: Magical Magnets - Softcover

Deary, Terry; Ellen, Barbara

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0571197434 ISBN 13: 9780571197439

Publisher: Faber and Faber, 1999

Synopsis

This is one of a series which takes an experiment-based approach to science and is designed to fit directly with the National Curriculum at Key Stage 2. The texts feature episodes in the life of an eccentric family - the Sparks - with a fascination for science experiments which are skilfully woven into the storyline for children to try at home. A real-life giant, a kidnapped orphan, a dog named Boozle and a shady private detective who used to be in the Brownies - it's a difficult case even for the Spark family, but Sam saves the day with a little help and some magical magnets.

About this title

Review

The first in a sparkling scientific series by veteran author Terry Deary, The Spark Files 1: Space Race, begins with the brightest and the dimmest of the Spark siblings squabbling about the shape of the earth. One minute they are afloat on a dodgy dinghy called the SS Titanic and the next they are catapulted into space with the dastardly Master Minde hot on their heels. But this is more than an adventure story. As the tale unfolds a series of practical, scientific experiments interspersed with fascinating facts about the sun, moon and earth are introduced, cleverly mingling reality with pacey storytelling.

The chances of a child and his parents agreeing on the value of a book must be fairly slim. Mum and dad want educational. Child wants aliens. In the Spark Files Deary and coauthor Barbara Allen have hit upon a magic formula to keep everyone happy. --Susan Harrison

From the Publisher

TIMES EDUCATIONAL SUPPLEMENT REVIEW
"Each rattlingly entertaining story is interwoven with simple, clearly explained, practical experiments for children to try at home...the stories are so enjoyable that sometimes the science bits seem to be an added bonus rather than the backbone of the book. This is all to the good, because children will scarcely notice they are learning along the way. Not wanting to miss out on a single line, they might just be turned on to science for life. As well as experiments, there are plenty of fascinating scientific facts and anecdotes that make science anything but boring...the illustrations are terrific...the group of children I shared these books with all independently looked through each book laughing and talking about the wonderfully clear and funny graphics." TIMES EDUCATIONAL SUPPLEMENT

Edition details

• Publisher: Faber and Faber
• Publication date: 1999
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0571197434
• ISBN 13: 9780571197439
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 96