A fabulous and revealing introduction to the secrets of the microscopic world. Features amazing photos of what can be discovered through a microscope, from atoms to algae and dust to DNA.With over 20 step-by-step microscope activities including preparing slides and observing everyday objects, insects and even your own cheek cells.Includes practical information on buying, using and taking care of a microscope.With internet-links to websites with more amazing photos, projects and activities. Chapters in this book include:The micro world- Larger than life- Making things looks bigger- Using a microscope- Paper and print- Fibres and fabrics- Odds and ends- Clues to the past- Solving crimesThe human body- On your head- Bodywork- Body cells- Inside a body cell- Inside a nucleus- Bacteria- Viruses- Microscopes in medicine- Microscopes and surgeryPlants and fungi- Looking at plants- Plant food- How plants spread- Water plants- Fungi- Food scienceCreepy crawlies- Insect watching- Insects up close- Watery minibeasts- Unwelcome guests- Body residents- The plant eatersRocks to robots- Sand and rocks- Microfossils- Crystals- More crystals- Testing metals- Micromachines- Nanotechnology- A nano future?Past and present- Early microscopes- The war on germs- Microscopes todayPractical points- Buying a microscope- Equipment- Advanced techniques