Kate the Chemist: The Big Book of Experiments by Dr. Kate Biberdorf. Philomel, 2020. 9780593116166
Format: Hardcover
Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 4
What did you like about the book? Over two dozen science experiments to do at home, courtesy of the science professor turned STEM superhero. Bubbles, slime, foam, explosions and many more are explained in easy to understand text, with photos, icons indicating safety concerns, and, my favorite, a messiness rating. Each experiment includes information on practical applications and an explanation of the science behind the experiment. Most projects use easily available household materials. I’m not sure where one would source some things, although teachers may know this: food-grade sodium alginate, iron oxide powder and dry ice are some. I love that she looks like she is having a blast with these! There’s a table of contents, but no index or sources.
Anything you didn’t like about it? I would have loved to see an index and suggestions for further reading. Also, a table of contents which sorted the experiments into scientific categories.
To whom would you recommend this book? For ages 8-15, for families and teachers looking for kid-pleasing science experiments.
Who should buy this book? Elementary and middle school and public libraries
Where would you shelve it ? 507
Should we (librarians/readers) put this on the top of our “to read” piles? No
Reviewer’s Name, Library (or school), City and State: Stephanie Tournas, Robbins Library, Arlington, MA
Date of review: June 1, 2020
Youth Services Book Review 
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