Scope it out: Here’s a one-of-a-kind book of kaleidoscopes, plus a kit that contains everything you need to build your own. From Carolyn Bennett—author of The Kids’ Book of Kaleidoscopes, Kaleidoscopia! is the comprehensive update and revision loaded with kaleidoscope history and science, experiments, and eco-friendly projects that give recycled materials a vibrant new life.

The full-color book with step-by-step illustrations is a lively exploration of the science behind the kaleidoscope’s magic, from the properties of light to the surprising way our eyes see color to the power of mirrors. Sixteen fascinating experiments allow readers to see the science in action. And then there are the scopes: a master kaleidoscope with 11 variations, plus 17 additional projects made from drink bottles, toothpaste boxes, plastic toys, stray marbles, and other common household objects. The Ping-Pong Scope. The Ocean Slow-Motion Scope. The Rocket Scope. And the Camera Capture, which uses a phone camera to take fun photo booth–style pictures! Templates at the back of the book help kids trace and cut out precise shapes.

The kit contains all the components for the master kaleidoscope: 3 high-quality plastic mirrors, custom tube, eyepiece and end cap, a starter set of beads, gems, and doodads for spectacular viewing, plus cellophane and a Ping-Pong ball to use in the projects.

Carolyn Bennett made her first kaleidoscope at the age of nine, inspired by a 1917 edition of The Book of Knowledge. She began her career as a full-time kaleidoscope artist in 1978 at C. Bennett Scopes and since then has served as a director of the Brewster Kaleidoscope Society. She is the author of the original Kids’ Book of Kaleidoscopes and lives in New Jersey.