The Paper Squadron

Bathtub admirals and wading-pool commodores will jump at the chance to experience several millennia of naval architecture with The Amazing Book of Paper Boats (Chronicle Books, $18.95), which provides cutand-fold versions of watercraft ranging from a birchbark canoe to an aircraft carrier to a rubberband-driven Mississippi paddle wheeler (along with a text explaining each one of the ships’ historical significance). All are made of waterproof paper, and nothing more is required for their assembly than scissors, model cement, and oatience. The book is being marketed as a children’s book, though the lack of anything to click on may deter those in the target group of ages 10 and up. But adults who bought the JFK action figure featured recently in “History Now” will be eager to fold a companion PT boat, while Civil War enthusiasts can make their own Monitor and Merrimack and refight the two ships’ epic 1862 encounter, this time giving the victory to whichever side they choose.