Play These Games: 101 Delightful Diversions Using Everyday Items. Heather Swain. Penguin Group (USA) Inc. 2012. 256 pp. ISBN #: 9780399537448.
What do you do on a rainy day or even on a nice day when you'd like some variety in your family or friend's gathering? Heather Swain has put together 101 games that range from the simple to complex but which are guaranteed to involve everyone who want to have fun!
How about a goofy game of "Loony Balloons?" All it takes is writing paper, pen or pencil, scissors, plenty of balloons, and the ability to write goofy directions on paper, like "Rub your belly and pat your head while singing the Star Spangled Banner," which will be inserted into the balloons. The game involves bouncing the balloons until they pop when one discovers secret directions to follow. Silly but can liven up a party for sure or a boring afternoon. Trivia questions can be substituted in place of silly directions for any age group.
Or perhaps you might like a game of "Money in the Bank" where one plays with buttons representing a nickel, dime or whatever value you choose. On the other hand, maybe you love puzzles and can create your own with craft sticks, messing up the sticks after drawing your picture on the sticks and then giving your players a set (or no definite) time to reassemble the puzzle pieces.
These games also involve beanbags, books, cardboard boxes, dress-ups, felt, foam boards, paper cups, digital camera and photo printer, ping-pong balls, and so many more items that are cheap and will provide hours of planning and fun. The games range from easy to complex which obviously covers a broad age range.
This is a great book and one this reviewer intends to keep and use with my next day or evening with friends, family, and acquaintances. Eating and drinking are great at a get-together but adding one of these games will provide a memorable time for all! Unique and very nicely done, Heather Swain!
