In The Mischief-Maker's Handbook, Mike Barfield presents dozens of tricks and practical jokes designed to entertain and, if all goes right, annoy. A majority of the activities, which are bundled into themed chapters ("Sneaky Science," "Make a Fake," etc.), can be attempted with household objects like felt-tip pens, rubber bands, playing cards and coins. Jan Buchczik illustrates this treasure trove of troublemaking with cartoonish art featuring kids hard at work on whoopee cushions, stomp rockets, water bombs ("No one should be allowed to leave school until they know how to make one") and musical instruments guaranteed to emit "a satisfyingly awful sound every time." Expect some readers to prioritize activities that are a double threat: what Barfield calls "rude and stupid at the same time." --Nell Beram, freelance writer and YA author