School Library Journal Review

Gr 5 Up-Piddock discusses future possibilities in biomimetics, nanotechnology, biotechnology, and other fields. The opening message discusses futurology, a "discipline of predicting probable future events based on scientific, systematic, and pattern-based studies of the past and the present," and how it is used. A full-page photo of a man using a bionic hand to play an electronic keyboard and a full spread, illustrated time line of important milestones in technology follow, serving to pique readers' interest in this stimulating subject. The subsequent chapters examine specific aspects of futurology. A look at the existing use of robots in auto manufacturing and police work leads into a discussion of developing machines capable of expression and showing emotion, and some applications of robotics to surgical procedures. Other chapters examine, for example, the development of bionic body parts such as hands, eyes, and even portions of the brain; the copying of useful traits of plants and animals in biomimetics; and how nanotechnology is used in cancer treatments and heart and lung repair. The volume ends with predictions and possibilities for life in 2025. This fascinating book combines an outstanding layout with a well-written and enticing narrative and vivid, detailed photographs.-Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.