In the _Wonders of Optics_, the phenomena of Vision, including the structure of the eye, optical illusions, the illusions caused by light itself, and the influence of the imagination, are explained. These explanations are not at all abstract or scientific. Numerous striking facts and events, many of which were once attributed to supernatural causes, are narrated, and from them the laws in accordance with which they were developed are derived. The closing section of the book is devoted to Natural Magic, and the properties of Mirrors, the Stereoscope, the Spectroscope, &c., &c., are fully described, together with the methods by which “Chinese Shadows,” Spectres, and numerous other illusions are produced. The book is one which furnishes an almost illimitable fund of amusement and instruction, and it is illustrated with no less than 73 finely executed engravings, many of them full-page.
“The work has the merit of conveying much useful scientific information in a popular manner."--_Phila. North American._
“Thoroughly admirable, and as an introduction to this science for the general reader, leaves hardly anything to be desired."--_N. Y. Evening Post._
“Treats in a charming, but scientific and exhaustive manner, the wonderful subject of optics."--_Cleveland Leader._
“All the marvels of light and of optical illusions are made clear."--_N. Y. Observer._
THUNDER AND LIGHTNING. By W. DE FONVIELLE. Illustrated with 39 Engravings on wood, nearly all full-page. One volume. 12mo
_For specimen illustrations see page 14._
_Thunder and Lightning_, as its title indicates, deals with the most startling phenomena of nature. The writings of the author, M. De Fonvielle, have attracted very general attention in France, as well on account of the happy manner in which he calls his readers’ attention to certain facts heretofore treated in scientific works only, as because of the statement of others often observed and spoken of, over which he appears to throw quite a new light. The different kinds of lightning--forked, globular, and sheet lightning--are described; numerous instances of the effects produced by this wonderful agency are very graphically narrated; and thirty-nine engravings, nearly all full-page, illustrate the text most effectively. The volume is certain to excite popular interest, and to call the attention of persons unaccustomed to observe to some of the wonderful phenomena which surround us in this world.