How to Make Slime

December 1, 2010
Preschool-G With titles including How to Build a Fizzy Rocket, How to Build a Tornado in a Bottle, and How to Make a Mystery Smell Balloon (all 2010), the Hands-On Science Fun series lives up to its name. And what is more fun than that age-old miracle of science, green slime? The going gets gooey right away with shots of a gleeful little girl (and, in one shot, an adult helper) mashing the muck with enthusiasm. The tools (dish, food coloring, cornstarch, spoon, measuring cup) are laid out, and each very simple step is accompanied by a photo. The rectangular shape of the book makes it perfect for laying open on tables or countertops, leaving hands free for stirring and mixing. Then come two minor experiments, though they are presented more as suggestions: Gently rest your hand on top of the slime. Then quickly slap the surface of the slime. What happens? The science of it is subsequently explained in three succinct spreads. The only thing missing? Advice on cleaning up the inevitable mess.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2010, American Library Association.)