What is it to tinker? As Rachelle Doorley so aptly tells us, to tinker is to take something apart, learn how it works, and use that knowledge to put it back together in a new and better way. Let's think about that a little more, learning how things work is neat (no argument with that), but how else can we tinker? Better yet, what can tinkering teach us about how we think, and how to see this beautiful world we live in?
The answer is simple. A lot.
From problem solving, to critical thinking, to fostering an innate sense of creativity, a great deal can be said on behalf of tinkering, and those who tinker.
Enter Rachelle Doorley's new book Tinkerlab: A Hands-on-Guide for Little Inventors. Beginning with fun and creative ways to create a space and acquire the materials needed for tinkering, Doorley goes on to wonderfully illustrate just how simple, yet profound a daily practice in tinkering can be.
Divided into four sections, including design, build, concoct, and discover, Tinkerlab is exactly what is claims to be, a hands-on guide to the wonder and excitement of an age-old practice.
Along with the 55 engaging and fun activities are insightful interviews and essays from real-life tinkerers, teachers, and learners. And if that still isn't enough to make you jump out and start collecting every scrap of paper, every extra ribbon, and every left over toilet paper roll you can get your hands on, the photos are lovely too.
After pouring over the various projects I had a real debate on my hands. Grape Sculptures, or Pounding Flowers? . . .
Pounding Flowers eventually won out and I set out to collect as many petals and leaves as I could get my hands on. I loved this project because it got me out in the garden, and ended in a pretty picture. I had to take a moment and disengage from my computer screen, and engage in the natural world around me. This first test print may need a bit more work, but the lesson was no less important. . .
. . . tinkering is not just a hobby, but a wonderful way in which to see the world.
As part of the official Tinkerlab blog tour you have a chance to win a copy of this gem! To toss your name in the hat, simply leave a comment on this post by 8am MST Thursday July 10th. The winner will be chosen by random number and announced later that day.
**Comments Closed**
And the winner of the Tinkerlab book giveaway is Nandini who said:
"Wow! Would love to have one copy. You have given such a nice review!"
Thanks everyone for participating! Keep Tinkering!
Didn't win but want to have a copy of your very own? Purchase Tinkerlab: A Hands-on-Guide for Little Inventors today from one of these lovely places:
- Imagine Childhood
- IndieBound
- Barnes & Noble
- Amazon.com
- Roost Books
- And all good bookstores
Good luck everyone!
~ Jordan
*Last time in Tell me a Story: Locomotive
