Books in Kaleidoscope series

For ages 9 to 12 years. You are a child. A really great child. Our future is in your hands. Here is your challenge: Fill a gaping hole in the ground (it takes up a whole street) with a tall, efficient, awesome building -- one that will truly scrape the sky. This is a far-reaching adventure filled with real-life experiences that will cause children's hearts and minds to soar. Ages 7 to 13

A hands-on, interactive guide to the culture, history, people, and traditions of Japan. Japan is a country of about 4,000 islands that total a land area slightly smaller than California. The four largest islands are home to over 127 million people. In this book, children will learn about the culture and history of this ancient civilization. They can dig in with hands, feet, and mind to learn about traditions, holidays and festivals, food, and the lives of today's Japanese children. Through photos, illustrations, diagrams, interviews, and activities, children will: * learn how to write and speak some Japanese words * explore fascinating places like Mount Fuji and Tokyo * learn how to fold origami and how to use chopsticks * discover what schools in Japan are like More than 40 activities, modern photographs, diagrams, and humorous art bring this fascinating country to life.

Cleverly designed, handmade potholders can be used as whimsical decorations, thoughtful guest and housewarming presents, and are an ideal item to sell on a stall at a bazaar or craft fair. This book is packed with innovative ideas on designing, making and using potholders. There are a number of individual projects for creating inspirational potholders, each one accompanied by detailed instructions and step-by-step diagrams. The designs are all unique and include a dragon, teddy bear, carrots, bird's nest and much more. There is a section which traces the history of potholders, some of which date back as far as 1774, and are now in museum collections, and the work of several artists is also illustrated.