Automata and Mechanical Toys Hardcover – August 30, 2002

It's a little pricier than some other books in this category, but this one has directions to build a box of parts to play with that was exactly what I was looking for. I bought four different books. I enjoy them all, but this one is my go-to.

With out a doubt this is one of the finest of the books that I have bought to teach you about things of wood that have movement associated with them. Most all of my book that I have bought have helpful information, techniques, and tips but to me this one is a stand out. Great full color pictures to help you learn and visualize the mechanical movements in these great wooden toys and structures.

Using this product as support material when teaching technology.

I think I expected more, but upon reflection I realized that there was more than enough information for me to take it where I wanted it to go.

This book is everything you could ask for in book on contemporary artistic automata.Each chapter has a brief summary of the topic in question -- say tools and materials. Next, each chapter moves on to showcase the work of two or three automata artists with many pictures and a page or two of information about each artist.The photographs of automata in this book are outstanding. You can really get a sense for the devices, their construction, and most especially, their finishes.If you love automata, want to see more of them, and want to learn about some of the top automata artists in the contemporary scene, this book is a must-have.

Love this book. want to make all of them.

Beautifully written and illustrated. Love the various artists and styles covered - really broad.

Well written with excellent diagrams and very thorough. I am thrilled with both the history offered and the instructions for constructing my own.