And of course, there’s lots of new machines as the Now in the title promises including a quadcopter drone, smart phone, electric car, and full-body scanner. Whereas the original did use color when necessary (explaining light waves or offset printing), the newer addition adds extra hues to the many earth-toned illustrations. What’s new in the 2016 edition? More color, for one thing. End matter includes a glossary and index, which will make the book useful for both browsers and researchers. The text is simple but elegant light on technical terms but muscular and easy to follow. Macaulay’s detailed pen-and-ink diagrams, accented with watercolor, are endlessly fascinating and relentlessly diagramed for clarity. Then our guides move on to harnessing the elements, working with waves, electricity and automation, and the digital domain. Once again, we’re ushered through our chronological journey by a squadron of engaging wooly mammoths, who start with demonstrating the mechanics of movement (inclined planes, levers, wheels, gears, pulleys, screws, and springs). What did you like about the book? First published in 1988, this 2016 compendium sticks to the original book’s design and tone, but incorporates new information. Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 4
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