The Practical Pyromaniac: Build Fire Tornadoes, One-Candlepower Engines, Great Balls of Fire, and More Incendiary Devices
Reviews (32)
Ambitious Experiments and Good Science History
This book combines two elements: recipes and instructions for spectacular and fiery experiments AND narrative about the scientists of the late 18th and early 19th centuries who paved the way in the discovery of elements and the elucidation of combustion. I would say the majority of the proposed experiments are very ambitious in the materials and supplies required and construction techniques. The book is aimed at the kind of teen-aged boy who makes his own rockets out of fertilizer and sugar but a boy following this book would need an enthusiastic dad with deepish pockets. Some of the experiments involve a lot of construction only to produce a short lived spectacular flame effect. Danger looms, as the book keeps pointing out. I enjoyed the descriptions of the life and works of such scientists as Joseph Priestley and Henry Cavendish -- Gurstelle does a good job of providing entertaining cameos of these dudes.
A few good ideas
There are a fair number of clever projects in this book that live up to the title, like the sound modulated flame tube, the fire tondo, and the flame thrower, but there are also a good many mundane projects like making a clay oil lamp, or the "one candlepower engine" which is simply a candle on a horizontal pivot lit at both ends. It's not nearly as good as the author's earlier
Great gift fro your friends with kids
No, I'm serious about the title. There are some fun experiments in here, and can teach kids both about chemistry, and to have respect for things that burn and blow up. A lot of it is pretty basic, so I think it's more geared toward adult-assisted experiments for kids. But then, the flame thrower is really cool. Can't wait to build that, not sure where I'll find a safe place to try it, though.
Great
Great
Not what I expected
Not really what I was looking for based on its description. The only cool projects are the ones specifically mentioned - the rest seem to be for children.
Fire by Tim Deagan and it was far superior.
The content is padded with not-terribly-interesting historical tales. The actual how-to guides are sparse and not detailed enough. I bought Make: Fire by Tim Deagan and it was far superior.
Fun with the kids
Got this book for my 3 little boys. I'm a Mom, and we have spent many hours reading the stories and history behind fire dynamics, and trying the experiments. Little boys and big boys love fire. This is a good way to let them experiment and experience the "fire" safely. FYI boys, always follow the safety guidelines :).
He fires off another one. (Sorry about that)
I am only a few pages into this book but like his others I know it will be great
Five Stars
Very interesting read. I hope BATF doesn't show up!
For your bright 10 year old.
Well written, explores the history of the science of flame; fewer experiments than I would like, but hey, I am a pyrotechnician.
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