The idea of connecting science and art through optics is unique. The paintings of old masters are compared to modern pixelated televisions, and op art to modern autostereogram images. In some cases the connection is derived, but the science really does explain the effects of art and why we see what we see.

Activities include making a pair of prismatic glasses, building a camera obscura, assembling a flip book, and demonstrating many optical illusions. The outstanding 48-page experiment manual includes excellent directions, illustrations, and photographs for each of the fun activities. Also included are lots of facts and real life applications of all the presented topics and related phenomena.

Most activities are quick and fun so it's easy to get kids to pay attention. If they pay attention, they learn. And there is a lot to learn here. Procedures for each activity are followed by a description of observations and an explanation of the results.