While the following link isn't completely along the lines discussed here, it is of some interest.
Caveman Chemistry
It goes from making fire up to making plastic, and a variety of things in between.
If I recall correctly, it is a chemistry teacher's attempt to make the subject interesting... many of the topics are useful, some fun, and a few that would only interest a small group...

You can read the whole book online or buy it.

In the first chapter he discusses the process of fire, then gives a practical method of building "training wheels" to use the bow and drill method... all the chapters are layed out this way.... information and then a practical application.....

Fun reading regardless of your interest.
(No association, I just like the book)