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See Inside
Conoce por dentro Cómo funcionan las cosas
Have you ever wondered just what happens when you flush a toilet, or what goes on inside a light bulb? Do you want to know how a digger scoops up soil, why boats float and what keeps planes up in the air? Lift the flaps to see inside how things work--from everyday inventions to massive machines.
Hardcover
First published January 1, 2009
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176 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
April 22, 2023
The following conversation actually happened:
Parent: "I've got a new book for you!"
Tiny Spawn: "...does it have flaps?"
I have since learned that FLAPS are a decidedly desired feature in any new book...
This reads like the preschool version of David Macaulay's The New Way Things Work.. with FLAPS, which are an essential component of all truly good books (according to the ankle-biters).
Fun things, simple things: toasters, water slides, your toilet and faucet/tap, clickable ball point pens, escalators, elevators/lifts, things that go (from bicycles to the internal combustion engine), and even helicopters and hovercrafts ("air cushion vehicles" or "ACVs" nowadays, apparently).
Logically grouped by someone intelligent into 9 sections:
1. Simple machines (sadly no nod to Rube Goldberg)
2. Movers and Shakers (construction vehicles, cranes)
3. Getting Going (cars, bikes)
4. Making Music (everything from a xylophone (metallophone) to a church's pipe organ)
5. Waterworks (water in your house from drainpipes, water tanks and plumbing, and also squirt guns and fire trucks)
6. Floating and Flying (in which we learn about lift on water and in the air, and the principle of displacement as shown by a submarine and a freighter)
7. Everyday Inventions (corkscrews (the fun type with raising arms), microwaves, vacuums, velcro, can openers, zippers/zips, compact fluorescent bulbs, padlocks, hair dryers, aerosol cans..)
8. Up, Down & Around (luggage/baggage carousels, conveyor belts, etc.)
and ending in a summary page entitled "Bits & Pieces", reiterating the simple machine types (cogs, wheels, pulleys, wedges, inclined planes (arguably one and the same, but I'll let that slide... ha!), screws and levers) that form the more complex machineries depicted.
Great fun, and I haven't noticed any errors (though admittedly wasn't trying - but that's still a good sign). A quality book, and more user-friendly than Macaulay's more complex (but still amazing) The New Way Things Work. Easy 5 stars.
EDIT: one note - you may wish to preview the book yourself and pre-bend the flaps in the correct orientation (look carefully for the hinge). No problems in ours yet, but small hands missed some less obvious directional flaps, and it occurred to me that an over-eager reader might yank a flap perpendicularly and tear it off outright. The elevator shaft is a VERY LONG FLAP, and you might want to crack off the tethers yourself, or you might get one of those irritating erroneously-articulated flaps to struggle with on future re-reads... it's not just me, right?! XD
Parent: "I've got a new book for you!"
Tiny Spawn: "...does it have flaps?"
I have since learned that FLAPS are a decidedly desired feature in any new book...
This reads like the preschool version of David Macaulay's The New Way Things Work.. with FLAPS, which are an essential component of all truly good books (according to the ankle-biters).
Fun things, simple things: toasters, water slides, your toilet and faucet/tap, clickable ball point pens, escalators, elevators/lifts, things that go (from bicycles to the internal combustion engine), and even helicopters and hovercrafts ("air cushion vehicles" or "ACVs" nowadays, apparently).
Logically grouped by someone intelligent into 9 sections:
1. Simple machines (sadly no nod to Rube Goldberg)
2. Movers and Shakers (construction vehicles, cranes)
3. Getting Going (cars, bikes)
4. Making Music (everything from a xylophone (metallophone) to a church's pipe organ)
5. Waterworks (water in your house from drainpipes, water tanks and plumbing, and also squirt guns and fire trucks)
6. Floating and Flying (in which we learn about lift on water and in the air, and the principle of displacement as shown by a submarine and a freighter)
7. Everyday Inventions (corkscrews (the fun type with raising arms), microwaves, vacuums, velcro, can openers, zippers/zips, compact fluorescent bulbs, padlocks, hair dryers, aerosol cans..)
8. Up, Down & Around (luggage/baggage carousels, conveyor belts, etc.)
and ending in a summary page entitled "Bits & Pieces", reiterating the simple machine types (cogs, wheels, pulleys, wedges, inclined planes (arguably one and the same, but I'll let that slide... ha!), screws and levers) that form the more complex machineries depicted.
Great fun, and I haven't noticed any errors (though admittedly wasn't trying - but that's still a good sign). A quality book, and more user-friendly than Macaulay's more complex (but still amazing) The New Way Things Work. Easy 5 stars.
EDIT: one note - you may wish to preview the book yourself and pre-bend the flaps in the correct orientation (look carefully for the hinge). No problems in ours yet, but small hands missed some less obvious directional flaps, and it occurred to me that an over-eager reader might yank a flap perpendicularly and tear it off outright. The elevator shaft is a VERY LONG FLAP, and you might want to crack off the tethers yourself, or you might get one of those irritating erroneously-articulated flaps to struggle with on future re-reads... it's not just me, right?! XD
October 21, 2020
Kopumā ļoti izzinoša enciklopēdija ar aizraujošu atveramo lodziņu formātu un atbilstoši tam arī biezas lappuses. Aktuālāka gan jau būs skolas vecuma bērniem, bet pirmsskolas vecuma bērnam pieaugušais var lasīt priekšā, vienkāršojot tekstu atbilstoši bērna uztveres un izpratnes līmenim, taču nebaidoties atbildēt uz jautājumiem.
Plašāk blogā: https://lalksne.blogspot.com/2020/10/...
Plašāk blogā: https://lalksne.blogspot.com/2020/10/...
January 25, 2021
I love how this book gives a simple explanation for how things work - like plumbing, engines, bicycles, and musical instruments! The flaps add an enticing element and are creative in their format. The best part of this book is that it clearly shows how simple machines (like levers, gears, screws, and pulleys) work together to create so many different items!
April 12, 2018
Science, Simple Machines
October 27, 2016
My curious non-fiction reading children loved this!
August 31, 2023
"See Inside How Things Work" by Usborne is an enchanting and educational journey that uncovers the inner workings of the world around us. Through its ingenious blend of intricate illustrations, engaging explanations, and interactive elements, this book provides a captivating exploration of the mechanisms that power everyday objects and phenomena.
The book takes readers on a fascinating tour through various subjects, from technology and machines to nature and the human body. Each page is a visual marvel, with detailed cross-sections and flaps that unveil the hidden mechanisms beneath the surface. From the gears that make a clock tick to the complex networks of the human circulatory system, the book offers a detailed look at the mechanics of our world.
"See Inside How Things Work" isn't just about revealing the surface-level details—it delves deep into the principles that govern these systems. The clear and concise explanations, accompanied by engaging illustrations, make complex concepts accessible to readers of all ages. This book effectively bridges the gap between curiosity and understanding, making it an excellent resource for educators, parents, and anyone who seeks a deeper grasp of how things function.
One of the book's strengths is its interactivity. With flaps to lift, wheels to turn, and tabs to pull, readers actively engage with the content, enhancing the learning experience. This hands-on approach encourages exploration, critical thinking, and a desire to learn more about the world's inner workings.
In an era where technology can often seem like magic, "See Inside How Things Work" provides a tangible and enlightening way to demystify the mechanics behind modern marvels. By offering insights into the intricate designs that shape our lives, the book empowers readers to appreciate the ingenuity that surrounds us.
Whether you're an aspiring engineer, a curious learner, or simply someone who enjoys unraveling the mysteries of the everyday, "See Inside How Things Work" is a captivating adventure that combines education with entertainment. Usborne's commitment to fostering curiosity and understanding shines through in this beautifully crafted book, which invites readers to explore the intricacies of our world one flap at a time.
The book takes readers on a fascinating tour through various subjects, from technology and machines to nature and the human body. Each page is a visual marvel, with detailed cross-sections and flaps that unveil the hidden mechanisms beneath the surface. From the gears that make a clock tick to the complex networks of the human circulatory system, the book offers a detailed look at the mechanics of our world.
"See Inside How Things Work" isn't just about revealing the surface-level details—it delves deep into the principles that govern these systems. The clear and concise explanations, accompanied by engaging illustrations, make complex concepts accessible to readers of all ages. This book effectively bridges the gap between curiosity and understanding, making it an excellent resource for educators, parents, and anyone who seeks a deeper grasp of how things function.
One of the book's strengths is its interactivity. With flaps to lift, wheels to turn, and tabs to pull, readers actively engage with the content, enhancing the learning experience. This hands-on approach encourages exploration, critical thinking, and a desire to learn more about the world's inner workings.
In an era where technology can often seem like magic, "See Inside How Things Work" provides a tangible and enlightening way to demystify the mechanics behind modern marvels. By offering insights into the intricate designs that shape our lives, the book empowers readers to appreciate the ingenuity that surrounds us.
Whether you're an aspiring engineer, a curious learner, or simply someone who enjoys unraveling the mysteries of the everyday, "See Inside How Things Work" is a captivating adventure that combines education with entertainment. Usborne's commitment to fostering curiosity and understanding shines through in this beautifully crafted book, which invites readers to explore the intricacies of our world one flap at a time.
December 16, 2020
What a book - like an advent calendar of discovery! This is a lovely, interactive book where flaps can be lifted to unveil what is inside. I got this from the library and think it must have been new as I also had the joy of being the first to lift up the levers and reveal “how things work”! I don't think it's something that would be read in one go in, or to class, however, it is perfect for certain topics. Especially to break things up a bit/offer a change of pace. Sections to dip into about Music, transport, how water works in the home, flying etc. Plus a fab link that makes for a great resource - https://usborne.com/gb/quicklinks/qui...
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December 9, 2020Take a look inside how things work. This book gives great examples of how things operate, these things can be like bikes, cars, fire extinguisher. Students get to explore machines and the mechanics it is a great way for kids to learn about science, and who knows it may help them problem solve in the future.
I would recommend this book if there is any interest in mechanics and science it gives great description of how things work and what goes into it. This book is at the top of the age range for elementary as it is for around 12 year olds.
I would recommend this book if there is any interest in mechanics and science it gives great description of how things work and what goes into it. This book is at the top of the age range for elementary as it is for around 12 year olds.
July 3, 2020
Very interesting
March 3, 2022
My son picked this out himself and he loves it. A very interesting read for both kids and grown ups
December 26, 2024
A good for toddlers, older kids and adults. Explains how lifts, escalators, vehicles, plumbing work. My toddler loves lifting the flaps.
September 16, 2025
Excellent book!!! My son loves it. These days I’m reading more children’s books than my own.
December 20, 2016
The kiddo is only 3 and this has a lot of words but it didn't matter. He loves taking things apart and seeing how they work. So this lift-the-flap book that shows you what's inside of things was pretty exciting to him. He loved the pages of diggers & cranes, the musical instruments, the plumbing section, the firetruck, airplanes & boats, the toaster, microwave, vacuum cleaner, and other appliances. Oh, and let's not forget the elevator and airport baggage claim. He was excited to tell our friend who is a flight attendant all the new things he learned about airplanes. It was a big hit today.
August 31, 2012
Ever wondered how a giant ship floats? Or how huge airplane with all that weight can stay up in the air? Or how toilets flush? A junior science book for Emerson! Full of flaps to lift, this book covers all the great junior science topics!
Purchased at the AMNH today. I was walking back to the apartment from work and I decided to duck into the book shop of one of the world's greatest museums. I marveled at how much wonderfulness there is in NYC and how accessible it all is. Within the main gift shop, there are 3 levels, each separated by a grand tiered stair case. You have to go all the way down to the lower level to find the children's books and in there I scored!
I had intended to keep it as another secret weapon for the plane ride home. But he saw it tonight while he was on the potty and demanded it! He loves it. I will hide it now.
Purchased at the AMNH today. I was walking back to the apartment from work and I decided to duck into the book shop of one of the world's greatest museums. I marveled at how much wonderfulness there is in NYC and how accessible it all is. Within the main gift shop, there are 3 levels, each separated by a grand tiered stair case. You have to go all the way down to the lower level to find the children's books and in there I scored!
I had intended to keep it as another secret weapon for the plane ride home. But he saw it tonight while he was on the potty and demanded it! He loves it. I will hide it now.
February 5, 2018
My boys are always asking about how things work, and this book was a fabulous fit for them! I learned a few things, too! The "water works" page is one of our favorites. It describes pumps on a water slide, and how water is used throughout the home. We bought this when our boys were 4 and 2 and it held their interest, even though it is listed for older ages (8+ I believe). The lift out flaps help keep them entertained because there is something for them to do as we read.
October 29, 2014
This is so cool! Lift a flap and learn about how things work. You can see inside of things like an escalator, cement truck and a hair dryer. Very cool!
June 5, 2016
It was kind of good.
January 14, 2019
Ben loves this book and the many different shapes and sizes of the flaps.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews