Bots! Robotics Engineering with Hands-On Makerspace Activities

Reviews

School Library Journal
“Gr 4-6–This title covers the many robots dreamed up by inventors and encourages readers to try out their own accessible projects. Ceceri urges readers to collect materials from yard sales and junk drawers and to tinker fearlessly (though safety guidelines are offered). Projects include basic pressure and tilt sensors, a solar-powered wobble bot made from garden lights, and gelatin-based skin for “soft robots.” Unlike other makerspace activity guides, this book takes an age-appropriate but surprisingly in-depth look at the social and cultural dimensions of robotics. Discussion topics include robots in history, current technological advances in cybernetics, and ethical issues raised by artificial intelligence. Diagrams, photos, and full-color comic strips add appeal for reluctant readers. Activity directions are fairly straightforward but complex enough that readers will likely require adult guidance. VERDICT This book would make a fantastic addition to an elementary or middle school library, makerspace, or STEM-integrated classroom. A delightfully comprehensive dive into the world of robots for a tween audience.”

Praise for a previous edition of this book

Featured title School Library Journal "Focus on Robo Reads"
“Robot types and features from the past, present, and near future are introduced in this wide-ranging overview. Twenty hands-on activities relate directly to the concepts introduced in the narrative. A ‘WobbleBot' project for example, demonstrates robot movements in a simple, doable form. Cartoon illustrations support the narrative and the clear instructions.”

Publisher's Weekly
“Ceceri's cartoon-illustrated activity book, an addition to the Build It Yourself series, introduces readers to robotics, with information on its history, different robot technologies, and the evolution of the field . . . Light in tone but dense with information, this guide should appeal to those who already have a strong interest in the topic and are ready for a hands-on challenge.”

Praise for Video Games by Kathy Ceceri

Booklist
“This appealing offering should prove to be a popular addition to STEAM collections.”

Cathe Post, Senior Editor, GeekMom.com
“This is an enjoyable journey through the history of video games. It would be great for kids and even grandparents who want to know more about what their kids (and grandkids) are playing!”