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These are fun to play with and require no batteries! It's one of those older type toys, harkening back to the days of marbles, checkers and go fish. A refreshing change from videogames, eh?

It's plenty of fun, and you don't have to understand any of the science to enjoy it. Just thread the string through the rod, roll it up (it's a skill to get it just right) and give a good tug! Then move it around in your hands and marvel at the mysterious forces of nature.

I love the reissued nostalgic packaging.

Updated Mar 4, 2008

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Pocket Microscope

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Description

Even if you abhor science, this is actually pretty cool. It's a pocket microscope, weighing in at slightly over an ounce. It has a built in white LED for light and a magnification level of 60x up to 100x.

After opening up the box it came in with a plastic knife, I promptly examined my carpet floor (it was a plastic knife; I was tired and resting, ok?) I saw all these cool plastic like fibers - cool!

Really, it's fun to look at things close-up. I don't know if I would walk around with it but it's nice to have around, and only a bit over $10.

Updated Feb 2, 2008

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The Classic Radiometer

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Description

You may have seen radiometers before, spinning away in some kitchy ornament. Having a simple, 'Classic' one around is kinda cool. Place it near light and watch the 'windmill' start to spin. Put it in direct sunlight and it'll spin so fast you'll hear it creaking.

A cool toy, and I've found when I place it near my window, I can use it to tell the time, based on the speed of rotation and the angle of the sun in the sky.

Not really, but it is fun to watch. If you can find one with a glass base (instead of the black ) they are much more aesthetically pleasing.

Updated Mar 5, 2008