VACUUM CLEANERS
by Elaine Marie Alphin & illustrated by Elaine Marie Alphin
In the eclectic Household History series (see Goldstein, below), a unique volume that, in short chapters, explains the composition of dust and dirt, shows how a vacuum cleaner works, and details the history of its invention and development from a huge coal-fired machine requiring three operators to the cordless Dustbuster. Generously illustrated with full-color photographs and drawings, the book includes instructions for making a vacuum suction device from cardboard tubing and a soda straw. While the book is unlikely to inspire youngsters to desire closer acquaintance with this unglamorous machine, it's remarkable for showing how much there is to say about such a humdrum device. (glossary, index) (Nonfiction. 8-11)