Customer Reviews

Fireworks: The Art, Science, and Technique

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

A classic book, written recently enough not to be obsolete.The title is indicitive - while other books about fireworksmay list chemical formulas and construction methods, Shimizu's book addresses the combination of light, shape, colors, and sounds into the Art of fireworks. It is one of the only books I've seen that discusses the science of fireworks as fireworks, instead of reducing that to mere chemistry. While not a cookbook, this book describes the techniques used in the manufacture of fireworks on both hobby and commercial scales. It is a shame this book is so hard to come by!

For a long time getting of this book was my dream of life, because it is extremely difficult in Russia to get any information about pyrotechnics. (The Internet is only possibility). After I have received this book as gift from my American friend I felt actual happiness. As far as I feel, this book is the best for anyone who know that fireworks are great art like classic baroque music or paintings...

My sincerely thanks to Dr. Shimizu for this beautiful book

Fireworks: The Art, Science, and Technique is a foundational book for the serious Fireworks hobbyist. It is a fairly easy read but at the same time it does require some background in chemical compositions and fireworks creation to fully understand the concepts being described. Takeo Shimizu is well referenced in most books about fireworks building and displays because of the depth of his descriptions and finite directions. Because of his location and restrictions in some areas for the use of chemicals, you will not always be able to replicate his formulas but the book does provide an insight into the subject and how the materials involved. The book is truly a MUST HAVE for anyone working with the creation of beautiful fireworks displays and fireworks creations.

If you are serious about learning about fireworks then this book is a must! The fact that it was not published yesterday should have no bearing on your decision because fireworks and the various chemicals used in their manufacture have not changed dramatically in more than 100 years.
Shimizu is passionate about pyrotechnics and fireworks. His book is crammed with information that you need to understand before manufacturing anything.
I have several books on fireworks including the Lancaster book. Each one has something of interest but you will find yourself going back to this one again and again.

This is a book that should be in the library of anyone interested in (or working with) fireworks, pyrotechnics, colored flame compositions, rocketry, or any other combustion-related aspect of chemistry.

It's definitely not the slickest presentation, nor is it full of color pictures. The text looks like it came out of a standard typewriter, rather than being typeset, and the illustrations are primarily hand-drawn. Instead of "glitz", what this book gives you is simple, practical information about the chemistry of fireworks, the art and techniques needed to produce various effects cleanly and effectively, and the safety precautions needed to do so safely.

Takeo Shimizu is an expert (possibly *the* expert) in this field, and his writing reflects a long career full of practical experience. You will not go wrong by adding this book to your library. It is an invaluable reference book, and widely considered to be one of the few standard texts (along with Lancaster's book Fireworks Principles and Practice) in this industry.

It was years ago when the tradition of me making fireworks for newyearseve started.I always combined existing pieces of firework. As an result i became interested in making the real stuff, so i turned too books (i advise for you to doo the same ),this book was recommended by someone who was active in the trade.

Its a book that gives you an insight in all the facets of fireworks. It sometimes however does not go as deep into subjects as i would have liked ,but its probably a pleasant too read masterpiece by not doing so. It explanes a lot and in regard of safety features it scores very high in my book. So if you are interestit in firework the art the science or the technique this is the book too buy,i at least can safely work on somewhat nicer projects for next newyears in a safe setting .

be safe , greatings, arjan

Shimizu is a true pyrotechnic master and gives a view of the Japanese Pyrotechnics technique.

Dit is echt een goed boek! Een uitgebreide beschrijving van de verschillende chemicalien en veel composities. Alleen de tekeningen zijn wat eenvoudig.Ook aandacht voor de veiligheid. Een echte aanrader voor elke pyrotechnicien!