Chris Barton (1)

I like that this picture book biography shows the resilience of engineers, as well as the fact great inventions often are the result of failed attempts to make something else.

Thinking of a super soaker makes many think of their own childhood but little do people know that it was created by accident. This book explains how Lonnie Johnson was always tinkering with things, even from an early age. Thanks to his curiosity continuing throughout his childhood, it brought about great success in getting him a job at NASA. Great for all ages and way to show to never stop being curious and how some of the best inventions were created by a mistake.

Who would win in a shark vs. train battle? The book says it depends. Where are they? Under water or on the tracks? What's the challenge? Selling lemonade or eating pies? What if it's something neither of them are good at?

This is a great book to share with groups. It's funny and has a lot of opportunities for audience partipation.

EducatingParents.org rating: Approved