Kid-ventors

March 1, 2024
A captivating exploration of the ingenuity of young people who defied norms and persevered to see their inventions through. The book profiles kids ranging in ages from 6 to 16, detailing the challenges they faced and their paths to delivering breakthrough inventions or developing and improving on existing ones. The book is divided into five sections covering inventions that solve daily problems, assist others, advance technology, help the environment, or are just for fun. Readers will encounter famous names like Benjamin Franklin (who invented swim fins at age 11), Louis Braille (who developed the Braille alphabet when he was 15), and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak (who at 13 created an adder/subtractor). Pew also features lesser-known young inventors, including Remya Jose from India, who invented a pedal-powered washing machine in 2003, when she was 14, and Guatemalan boy Ken Lou Castillo, who, seeking a solution to both deforestation and his own smoke allergies, created eco-friendly and hypoallergenic fire logs he named Mr. Fuego when he was 9. The book, which highlights a broadly diverse group of subjects, also includes sidebars with additional context and inspirational quotes. Brief informational sections interspersed between the profiles explain patents, trademarks, and prototypes; introduce types of STEM communities young people can join; and list concrete steps on the path to becoming an inventor. Wright's cheerful illustrations add touches of fun. Celebrates young people's ingenuity; will inspire and delight reluctant and avid readers alike. (glossary, sources) (Nonfiction. 9-12)

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Starred review from March 1, 2024

Gr 4-8-This book provides brief descriptions of 35 kids and the inventions they developed. Referencing YouTube videos, TEDx talks, magazine and newspaper articles, and in some cases, interviews, the author shares in very readable language the remarkable contributions these young people have made at an early age. Divided into categories, such as "Inventions to Solve Daily Problems," and "Inventions to Help Others," each vignette highlights the individual, shares what inspired their invention, and gives a brief overview of the creation process and what the inventor subsequently chose to do with it. Each kid faced numerous challenges, ranging from less-than-encouraging parents to experts who scoffed at their efforts, or even lack of supplies and training. What shines through each story is the young person's passion and determination to pursue their interests. In addition to the profiles, practical information about the invention process guides young readers. Topics include patents and trademarks, prototypes, production and marketing, STEM communities, and tips for becoming an inventor. The technical parts are explained as simply as possible with a glossary included in the extensive back matter. While there are no photographs, Wright's black-and-white illustrations provide a very kid-friendly look at each invention. A quote and sidebars highlighting topics specific to each invention add value. VERDICT An absolutely vital purchase for libraries that want to inspire and inform kids about their power to make a difference.-Heidi Grange

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March 15, 2024
Grades 4-8 What do bricks made from gum and recycled paper, a unicorn-horn-shaped prosthetic arm that shoots biodegradable glitter, and the Taco vs. Burrito card game have in common? They were invented by kids--and are just a few of the inventions in this book, which features 35 kid inventors from all over the world. Some inventors are famous (Ben Franklin, Louis Braille), but most are young people like India's Remya Jose, with her pedal-powered washing machine, or Sierra Leone's Kelvin Doe, who made his own battery and generator. The book is organized by invention type and offers practical advice on how to become an inventor and raise funding. The concepts of prototypes, production, and marketing are explained, often in sidebars. Licensing, patents, and trademark information is particularly useful and clearly written. Each profile includes a full-page image of the inventor and their invention, a personal quote, and an update on what they are doing now. A glossary, quote sources, and selected subject sources conclude. Young aspiring inventors will be inspired by this fun and informative book.

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