Visual Brainstorms 2
This terrific boxed set of brainteaser cards contains some 100 entertaining questions and tests designed to stimulate various thought processes. Each card describes a brief scenario highlighted by lively artwork. For instance, "Chihuahua Pull" shows four drawings of two Chihuahuas pulling either end of different, variously untidy lengths of rope. The challenge is to predict which of the ropes will result in knots after being yanked by the pups. Taken from teaser collections for kids from Martin Gardner, "the Dean of American Puzzlers," this set touches upon some fairly complicated math and physics ideas without anybody knowing they've actually learned something. Cards are color-coded to indicate levels of difficulty. No games are necessary to enjoy these cards, but game guidelines for groups or solitary players are offered for anyone wishing to add a bit of competition to the fun.--Tom Keogh