I have given the American Boys Handy Book to the children of many of my friends. It will spur anyone's creative thinking, young or old!
If you like this one check out the American Girls Handy Book written by Beard's sister.A must for any American boy at heart I was given a first edition by my grandfather in 1973. It was sadly lost in a fire in 1982. I have since been looking for another copy to pass to my son. All of the projects are simple and straight forward. Beard's musings on boyhood and the fundamental task of growing up are right on the mark - even for today's techno child. A must have for any library!