If your children ask you a lot of questions that you don't always know the answer to, then Time For Kids Big Book of How may just be the answer. This 192-page book is filled with 501 facts and 22 How To projects. Each fact gets a two page spread with just enough information for the inquisitive elementary age student.  

The 14 chapters are divided into the following categories: Animals, Be Prepared, Sports, Buildings, Science, Transportations, Home Tech, Food, Space, The Human Body, and Going Green. The layout for each fact includes an introduction, captions around the photos (which help to answer the question), an information box, and factoids. The layout is very kid friendly; they will have no problem finding the information they desire. The photos and diagrams are easily understood, and the directions for the How To projects are clearly written. The materials needed for the projects are simple things that you should already have around the house. Children ages 8-12 should not have any trouble reading this book, and absorbing a wealth of information.  

One of the projects that I thought was funny was How to Mark Your Territory. You need at least two people, spray bottles, white vinegar, and at least two different types of food extract. Once you've made your scent you will each take turns spraying your territory while the other people look away. When finished you'll both walk, or crawl, around sniffing the area to see if you can smell the boundary lines. How fun!  

My children have really enjoyed this great resource. We had a lot of fun, while finding out many answers to a lot of life's questions!