Amazing Theatre of Physics. Awesome Physics in Your City, The. Tomas Kopecky, Illus. Translated from the Czech by Graeme Dibble. Albatros, 06/2025. 45pp. Nonfiction. Trade $17.95. 978-80-00-07439-9. GRADES 3–6. ADDITIONAL.
Physics is all around us, which this title strives to demonstrate and explain. Starting with a map of a town, readers visit different city areas and learn tidbits about applicable physics topics which readily affect and can be understood by kids. For example, “In the Street” explains blaring sirens, rainbows on the street, how reflectors work, plus tire traction on wet roads; while the section “At the Amusement Park” covers various rides like bumper cars, the typical pirate ship ride, and swing carousels. The scientific explanations connected to things readers know makes physics more real and understandable. Digital illustrations bring a comic-like feel to the explanations, with every page keeping the reader busy conceptualizing, understanding, and connecting with what they already know. This reader did find at least one factual error (probably due to translation) saying “there are 12 ounces in one pound as there are 12 inches in one foot,” when there are actually sixteen ounces in one pound. Mistake aside, the title presents physics as interesting and demonstrates real world applications that anyone can understand.
Joshua Rees—Daly City Public Library