Originally published in the early 1900s, this short but informative book provides detailed instructions on how to form string figures, accompanied by clear illustrations. Not only does it instruct how to form these, but also gives an idea of the origins of each figure. Apart from this being a simple and entertaining pastime for young and old, providing exercise for the fingers and the mind, these games also reflect a little of the history and social habits of the people where they originated. Contents Include: Instructions The Fish Spear An Outrigger Canoe The Bed Carrying Wood An Eel The Caribou A Grass Hut A Siberian House The Tern A Man Climbing A Tree The Well An Apache Door The Baboon's Mouth A Scrub-Hen The Fighting Men The Island of Moa Lightning Shooting the Fish Spear A Bird A Melon Shell A Canoe A Waterspout Barbed Spears The Breastbone and Ribs The Laia Flower The Flying Fox The Looper Caterpillar Porker

Diagrams and text illustrate the steps involved in creating over one hundred string figures while providing information on their origin and cultural background

This book may be regarded as an introduction to the study of String Figures—games which are widespread among primitive peoples, and played by weaving on the hands a single loop of string in order to produce intricate patterns supposed to represent certain familiar objects. I have gathered together the facts already known concerning these games, and, adding my own studies and the unpublished records of other observers, I have here described and illustrated the methods whereby about one hundred string figures are made. My purpose has been twofold: to interest other students in the subject, in order that additional figures and their methods may be collected among various tribes and races; and to reach a still larger public, that more people may share in the fascinations of the games themselves. The games are certainly fascinating, appealing as they do to young and to old, and to those debarred from all pastimes demanding physical exertion. Moreover, they are not unduly difficult; and, capable as they are of infinite variations, their charm ought to be inexhaustible.

A clear, plain-English guide to this complex scientific theory String theory is the hottest topic in physics right now, with books on the subject (pro and con) flying out of the stores. String Theory For Dummies offers an accessible introduction to this highly mathematical "theory of everything," which posits ten or more dimensions in an attempt to explain the basic nature of matter and energy. Written for both students and people interested in science, this guide explains concepts, discusses the string theory's hypotheses and predictions, and presents the math in an approachable manner. It features in-depth examples and an easy-to-understand style so that readers can understand this controversial, cutting-edge theory.

A fictionalized account of the author's childhood experiences moving from the United States to London, England, and attending a boarding school.

In today's high tech world, people have completely forgotten how to make The Cup and Saucer, The Witch's Broom, and Jacob's Ladder. Thank goodness for Cat's Cradle. This book's simple instructions and ultra-clear instructional art are foolproof.

Fifty popular Yo-Yo tricks along with an illustrated history of the toy and its variations plus tips for keeping your Yo-Yo in top condition. Helpful diagrams accompany the easy instructions.