The Mad Scientist Series of books by Bertrand Brinley are gems! I discovered them about 9 years ago when my boys were grade school age. They make a wonderful read-aloud for any boy 8 years and up. Fun, adventurous and all-boy. I highly recommend. I know of a great resource to get beautiful hardback copies - if you want to know - ask me. I give the entire set as baby shower gifts for boys now.