Florance offers an intriguing entry into scientific phenomena for middle-grade readers. She groups these magical-seeming but science-based projects into five broad categories: infusions (acids, bases, and indicators), illumination (light), sorcery (forces such as gravity and electromagnetism), alchemy (physical and chemical changes), and mimicry (biologically inspired engineering). Each section includes an introduction explaining why these phenomena appeared magical to people in the past and a brief overview of the scientific concepts. Each activity is introduced with a “spell” consisting of four rhyming lines that outline the project’s process and outcome. The materials will require some adult help to obtain, and adult supervision is often suggested. The step-by-step directions are clear and accompanied by colorful drawings and photographs. The projects range widely in scope and difficulty. Using pliers, readers take apart a highlighter pen to make flowers fluoresce under black light. Young people are also invited to complete an electric circuit through a pencil-line drawing and create “rune stones” with clay and small magnets. More skilled readers can cook food that glows under black light and make meringues from chickpea liquid and candles in a solar oven. For those who like to tinker, there are clever wiggle-bots made with hobby motors, batteries, LEDs, and hot glue. Teachers and youth group leaders as well as parents will welcome this volume.