Review: Batman Science The Real-World Science Behind Batman's Gear by Tammy Enz and Agnieszka Biskup

SUMMARY FROM NETGALLEY.COM:

When it comes to fighting crime, technology is Batman’s greatest weapon. From his gadget-packed Utility Belt to his high-tech Batmobile, the Dark Knight tackles Gotham’s criminal underworld. But does any of his gear have a basis in reality? Or is it merely the stuff of fiction? Batman Science uncovers the real-world connections to Batman’s tech—and much of it will surprise you!
For ages 10-15.
*First Capstone partnership with DC Comics on a nonfiction title
*Showcases the connection between fictional gadgets and the real world science that makes them work
*Cool technology—meets STEM and Next Generation standards 

MY TAKE:
I'm not a huge Batman fan, but my husband is interested in most comic book characters and my son would probably grow up liking Batman too, so I figured I should read up on this stuff.

In Batman Science The Real-World Science Behind Batman's Gear, readers get a peek at the real-world equivalent of Batman's gadgets and modes of transportation.

The book covers everything from his gloves to his utility belt to the Batmobile. I knew Batman's suit, utility belt, etc. were complicated, but I never really figured how many there were until I read this book. Of course, I always figured Batman's gloves were just ordinary gloves, which shows that I probably haven't watched enough episodes of the show.

Most of Batman's things are based on objects that are not too dissimilar from the ones used by Batman.

I liked that there were plenty of factoids like when a certain device or transportation was first created. There were also plenty of pictures so readers can see what the real-life gadgets look like. Most of the things discussed were stuff I already knew, but it was nice to learn a couple or so things that I didn't know yet. For example, I had no idea that there were actually two types of shuriken. The bo shuriken were more like blades, while the hira shuriken is the throwing star most of us are familiar with. I have seen a bo shuriken before but I didn't know that that was classified as a shuriken. This is exactly the kind of thing that young boys and girls with an interest in gadgets will definitely enjoy.

Thanks to NetGalley and Capstone Young Readers for the e-copy.

THE GOOD:

1. The book is very thorough and detailed.
2. There are plenty of pictures.
3. The layout and design will appeal to young kids.

THE BAD:

1. The tone of the writing may bore kids who are quick to lose interest. 

FAVORITE QUOTE/S:

Night-vision goggles produce green pictures because human eyes are most sensitive to green light.

READ IT IF:

1. You or your child are fans of Batman.
2. Your child likes gadgets.
3. You've always wondered how realistic Batman's gadgets are. 

RATING:


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