From School Library Journal
Grade 3-8–This book has a wonderful, "squeaky-clean" appearance and a perfect combination of text, color photography, design, and child models. A precious little dog also appears frequently in comical situations. Major sections include "Great Gifts," "Animals," "Good Enough to Eat," and "Tub Fun." Step-by-step instructions are exceptionally clear. Safety concerns are mentioned as projects involve a microwave oven, sharp knife, rubbing alcohol, etc. Aside from a few general supplies, most items can be purchased at pharmacies, natural food stores, and craft stores. Children will love the dog bone, snowman, gross eyeballs, soaposaurus, etc. They will also find themselves educated and entertained as to the intricacies of soaps and soapmaking from an explanation of the various supplies needed, sidebars on soaps with special properties, and "trivia bubbles." A pleasing color chart is labeled according to the sensations/emotions that the hues convey. This welcome activity book will surely please children and the adults who work with them.
–Augusta R. Malvagno, Queens Borough Public Library, NY Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
From Booklist
Gr. 4-6. This colorful, large-format volume from the Kids' Crafts series begins with basic instructions for making novelty soaps, followed by ideas and directions for 56 projects, from soap fossils to soap snow globes to photos imbedded in transparent soap bars. The instructions are detailed and precise, offering the hope that the finished products may resemble those shown in the many excellent photographs. Though a trip to a well-stocked craft shop for supplies (soap bases, molds, colors, fragrance) is essential, many children will find the projects illustrated to be worth the effort and expense. For those who want to take things beyond making soaps for personal use and gifts, "Start Your Own Soap Business," written by a 12-year-old entrepreneur, comments on matters such as shrink wrap, wholesale purchase, and grumpy people. The book begins with information on molding, scenting, and coloring soap, and it ends with pages of advice for typical problems that might arise.
Carolyn PhelanCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
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