Pinewood Derby Speed Secrets

Although written primarily for families of Boy Scouts, this charming, useful little book should make any parent eager to work on a model car with their child. The book includes a history of the "Pinewood Derby," the annual Boy Scout event that pits gravity-powered cars made from a standard-issued block of pinewood against each other, as well as fully illustrated step-by-step directions for making cars. Each chapter focuses on one aspect-the body, the wheels, the axles, etc.-and covers three levels of car-making skill: Winning, Champion and Ultimate. Text, diagrams and photos are clear and easy to follow, and serves as a primer on basic woodworking skills. When Meade suggests a tool or piece of equipment, he explains what it is and how it works, why a certain tool is called for and how to use it properly. The best aspect of this book is its emphasis on "letting the child do the work" and safe working practices. Second- or third-grade children can read and understand the text with a little help, but it is also a useful guide for grown-ups. 200 color photos.