Shop for Yourself

Reviewed by Jill Norgren: David Nasaw does not ask his readers to like Joe Kennedy. He does not hold back on the damning stories of deceit and unbridled ambition. He does, however, appear utterly convinced that Kennedy doted on his children — beyond needing them to fulfill his ambitions, and that they returned his love. Joe Kennedy “had pledged to faithfully love and support [Rose] and the children they might have together …. What he did not intend to do was give up being a ‘ladies man’.” And he did not. more »

Roberta McReynolds writes: There are circumstances when a degree in algebra would certainly be beneficial. Never once did any of my instructors say, "Pay attention young ladies! You’re going to need to know how to calculate your correct bra size someday and it won’t remain the same throughout your life. You don’t want people to look at your chest and realize you flunked algebra, do you?" more »

Last minute ideas for gifts should be able to be found in your local stores and online: The ECOlogical Calendar for 2013; a book about illusion and art; a 4-cylinder motor to build; a pattern book for sewers; a 1000-piece puzzle for bird watchers and others, Avian Friends; building warrior robots for racing and an adventure game, Forbidden Island. more »

Ideas from our favorite science and math venue: Secrets of famous magicians and illusionists; Science Tarot cards that display images of mitochondria, neurotransmitters & scientists; Ant-O-Sphere Pod Kits use a system of clear and red-colored pods to simulate an “above” and “underground” sensation for the ants; the Pizza Pi Cutter helps serve up a true slice of genius; 25 experiments to learn how an electric motor converts electricity into motion and an electric generator does just the opposite, converting motion into electricity. more »