Now a Netflix film starring and directed by Chiwetel Ejiofor, this is a gripping memoir of survival and perseverance about the heroic young inventor who brought electricity to his Malawian village. When a terrible drought struck William Kamkwamba's tiny village in Malawi, his family lost all of the season's crops, leaving them with nothing to eat and nothing to sell. William began to explore science books in his village library, looking for a solution. There, he came up with the idea that would change his family's life forever: he could build a windmill. Made out of scrap metal and old bicycle parts, William's windmill brought electricity to his home and helped his family pump the water they needed to farm the land. Retold for a younger audience, this exciting memoir shows how, even in a desperate situation, one boy's brilliant idea can light up the world. Complete with photographs, illustrations, and an epilogue that will bring readers up to date on William's story, this is the perfect edition to read and share with the whole family. Read more

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • This “wittily illustrated [and] accessible volume” (The Wall Street Journal) highlights the contributions of fifty notable women to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) from the ancient to the modern world.  “The must-read, girl-power STEM book.”—InStyle It’s a scientific fact: Women rock! This fascinating, educational collection features 50 illustrated portraits of trailblazing women in STEM throughout history.Full of striking, singular art, Women in Science also contains infographics about relevant topics such as lab equipment, rates of women currently working in STEM fields, and an illustrated scientific glossary. The trailblazing women profiled include such pioneers as primatologist Jane Goodall and mathematician Katherine Johnson, who calculated the trajectory of the 1969 Apollo 11 mission to the moon. Women in Science celebrates the achievements of the intrepid women who have paved the way for the next generation of female engineers, biologists, mathematicians, doctors, astronauts, physicists, and more! Read more

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A young readers edition of the New York Times bestseller The Disappearing Spoon, chronicling the extraordinary stories behind one of the greatest scientific tools in existence: the periodic table. Why did Gandhi hate iodine (I, 53)? How did radium (Ra, 88) nearly ruin Marie Curie's reputation? And why did tellurium (Te, 52) lead to the most bizarre gold rush in history? The periodic table is a crowning scientific achievement, but it's also a treasure trove of adventure, greed, betrayal, and obsession. The fascinating tales in The Disappearing Spoon follow elements on the table as they play out their parts in human history, finance, mythology, conflict, the arts, medicine, and the lives of the (frequently) mad scientists who discovered them. Adapted for a middle grade audience, the young readers edition of The Disappearing Spoon offers the material in a simple, easy-to-follow format, with approximately 20 line drawings and sidebars throughout. Students, teachers, and burgeoning science buffs will love learning about the history behind the chemistry. Read more

This “enjoyable” biography of the brilliant astronomer will intrigue young people who are “bored with the textbook approach to science” (The New York Times Book Review). Sixteenth century Italy produced Galileo, a genius who marked the world with his studies and hypotheses about mathematical, physical, and astronomical truths. His father, musician Vincenzio Galilei said, “Truth is not found behind a man’s reputation. Truth appears only when the answers to questions are searched out by a free mind. This is not the easy path in life but it is the most rewarding.” Galileo challenged divine law and the physics of Aristotle, and questioned everything in search of truths. And it was through this quest for truth that he was able to establish a structure for modern science. Read more

A riveting biography of the groundbreaking innovator who was a giant in the worlds of computing, music, filmmaking, design, smart phones, and more. A finalist for the YALSA Excellence in Nonfiction Award!"Your time is limited. . . . have the courage to follow your heart and intuition." ―Steve JobsFrom the start, his path was never predictable. Steve Jobs was given up for adoption at birth, dropped out of college after one semester, and at the age of twenty, created Apple in his parents' garage with his friend Steve Wozniack. Then came the core and hallmark of his genius―his exacting moderation for perfection, his counterculture life approach, and his level of taste and style that pushed all boundaries. A devoted husband, father, and Buddhist, he battled cancer for over a decade, became the ultimate CEO, and made the world want every product he touched, from the Macintosh to the iPhone, from iTunes and the iPod to the Macbook.Critically acclaimed author Karen Blumenthal takes us to the core of this complicated and legendary man while simultaneously exploring the evolution of computers. Framed by Jobs' inspirational Stanford commencement speech and illustrated throughout with black and white photos, this is the story of the man who changed our world.Read more thrilling nonfiction by Karen Blumenthal:Hillary Rodham Clinton: A Woman Living History (A YALSA Excellence in Nonfiction Award Finalist)Bootleg: Murder, Moonshine, and the Lawless Years of ProhibitionTommy: The Gun That Changed AmericaPraise for Steve Jobs: The Man Who Thought Different: A Biography:“This is a smart book about a smart subject by a smart writer.” ―Booklist, starred review“Students who know Steve Jobs only through Apple's iTunes, iPhones, and iPads will have their eyes opened by this accessible and well-written biography.” ―VOYA“An engaging and intimate portrait. Few biographies for young readers feel as relevant and current as this one does.” ―The Horn Book Magazine“A perceptive, well-wrought picture of an iconic figure.” ―Kirkus Reviews“Blumenthal crafts an insightful, balanced portrait.” ―Publishers Weekly Read more

"Your time is limited... have the courage to follow your heart and intuition."—Steve Jobs From the start, his path was never predictable. Steve Jobs was given up for adoption at birth, dropped out of college after one semester, and at the age of 20, created Apple in his parents' garage with his friend Steve Wozniack. Then came the core and hallmark of his genius - his exacting insistence on perfection, his counterculture life approach, and his level of taste and style that pushed all boundaries. A devoted husband, father, and Buddhist, he battled cancer for over a decade, became the ultimate CEO, and made the world want every product he touched. Critically acclaimed author Karen Blumenthal takes us to the core of this complicated and legendary man while simultaneously exploring the evolution of computers. Framed by Jobs' inspirational Stanford commencement speech, this is the story of the man who changed our world. Read more

Explore the wacky, weird, and wonderful true stories behind one of the greatest scientific tools in history—the periodic table!—in this young readers edition of the New York Times bestseller The Disappearing Spoon. Why did Gandhi hate iodine? How did radium nearly ruin Marie Curie's reputation? Why did tellurium lead to the most bizarre gold rush in history? The periodic table is a crowning scientific achievement, but it's also a treasure trove of adventure, greed, betrayal, and obsession. A series of fascinating tales in The Disappearing Spoon follow the unassuming elements on the table as they play surprising roles in human history, finance, mythology, conflict, art, medicine—and of course the lives of the (frequently) mad scientists who discovered them! With line-drawings and side-bars throughout, students, teachers, and burgeoning science buffs will love learning the often unbelievable history behind the chemistry.  Perfect for…★ Aspiring scientists★ STEM classrooms★ Trivia lovers★ Fans of Bill Nye Read more

Even the youngest science enthusiasts know the name "Einstein." To them, it represents intelligence and ingenuity. But they may not know much about Albert Einstein as a man and why his fame reached such great heights. In this comprehensive biography, which draws on new research and personal documents, accessible text tells the fascinating story of Einstein's life, including his early years in Germany, his achievements that led to the Nobel Prize, and his role in the development of the atomic bomb. Plentiful photographs, explanatory diagrams, and illuminating sidebars add to the reader's experience, helping to reveal the person and the genius behind the name. Read more

Discover the Enigma of Rudolf Diesel: A Genius Behind The EngineHave you ever wondered about the untold story of a brilliant inventor who changed the world and then mysteriously vanished? Are you curious about the hundred-year-old mystery shrouding the fate of Rudolf Diesel, the man behind the revolutionary internal combustion engine?Step into the captivating world of Rudolf Diesel, a visionary who disrupted the status quo and left an indelible mark on global industry. Join us as we embark on a journey through history, filled with intrigue and questions that demand answers.Imagine the year 1913, a world on the brink of transformation. The steamship Dresden sails through the dark waters, carrying the great inventor himself. Rudolf Diesel, creator of an engine that could change the course of history, stands at the cusp of revolutionizing industries worldwide. Yet, fate has a different plan. He disappears without a trace, leaving behind a world grappling with the mysteries of his disappearance. Accident, suicide, or murder? The headlines echo with uncertainty.Born from humble beginnings in Europe, Diesel's rise to prominence was nothing short of spectacular. His invention, an engine that didn't rely on expensive petroleum-based fuels, made him a global sensation. But it also made him enemies—powerful foes like Kaiser Wilhelm II and John D. Rockefeller.The Kaiser envisioned Diesel's engine powering a formidable fleet of submarines, challenging the supremacy of Great Britain's Royal Navy. However, Diesel's ideals were different. He wanted his technology to benefit humanity, not just one nation.For Rockefeller, Diesel's invention posed a direct threat to his vast oil empire. As electric lighting began to replace kerosene lamps, his fortune depended on gasoline's growing demand. The battle lines were drawn.Against this backdrop of intrigue and impending war, Diesel was on a mission to London, hoping to contribute to Britain's struggling submarine program. Yet, his disappearance altered the course of history.In "Rudolf Diesel: A Genius Behind The Engine," you'll uncover the truth about this enigmatic inventor, the forces that shaped his life, and the mystery that shrouded his final moments. It's a story of ambition, rivalry, and the pursuit of innovation against all odds.Discover a plethora of topics such as:The Early Life of Rudolf DieselA Forge of Knowledge and Practical ExperienceRudolf Diesel's Perilous Journey to GreatnessDiesel's Quest for the Impossible EngineThe Birth of the First Diesel EngineRudolf Diesel's Disappearance and Tragic EndEnduring Legacy of Rudolf DieselDon't miss the chance to explore the hidden history of Rudolf Diesel. This book is not just a tale of the past; it's a journey that resonates with the challenges and aspirations of today. It's a perfect gift for young minds and adults alike, offering inspiration and insights into the legacy of a genius who dared to dream beyond the ordinary.Join us on this remarkable journey, and together, let's unlock the secrets of Rudolf Diesel, the genius behind the engine. Your curiosity will be rewarded, your understanding deepened, and your trust in the power of innovation reaffirmed. Read more

A readable, perceptive account of the lives of fourteen gifted innovators who have played important roles in scientific and industrial progress. The achievements of Benjamin Banneker, Granville T. Woods, George Washington Carver, and others have made jobs easier, saved countless lives, and in many cases, altered the course of history. Includes a bibliography and an index. Read more

This is a must-have activity book for fans of the YouTube legend and engineering genius, Mark Rober! Dive into 101 fascinating facts about Mark’s life, mind-blowing science experiments, and engineering achievements. From his days at NASA to his inspiring presence on YouTube, explore the journey of one of the internet’s most innovative and educational influencers.Interactive Features Include:Engineering Challenges: Get hands-on with activities inspired by Mark’s inventive projects and science experiments.Quizzes: Test your knowledge of Mark’s viral videos, unique builds, and unforgettable experiments.Design Your Dream Project: Imagine you’re creating your very own Mark Rober-style engineering marvel!Journaling Prompts: Reflect on your creativity, set goals, and brainstorm ideas to solve real-world problems.Word Searches: Find hidden words related to Mark’s most iconic videos and scientific concepts.Coloring Pages: Unleash your creativity with pages inspired by Mark’s experiments and engineering feats.Perfect for fans new and old, this activity book offers a fun, engaging experience that celebrates Mark Rober’s incredible journey and makes science and engineering exciting for everyone! Read more

Women Scientists and Entrepreneurs You Should Know “A book that is sure to inspire a new generation of girls in STEM. Educational and inspiring!” ─ Felicia Day, New York Times bestseller, American actress, gamer, writer, web series creator, and queen of the geeks.#1 New Release in Teen & Young Adult Inventions and History of Science and Biographies. From saving the oceans to improving the rehabilitation and job prospects of people struggling in prison, these badass female scientists and entrepreneurs are changing the world.Take a look at what the future holds—and how women are making it better. In The Future of Science is Female, author and award-winning journalist Zara Stone shares the fascinating, complicated stories of how a diverse group of powerful women got started—from the perspective of those still working it out as they go along. Take 22-year old Dominique Barnes, a female hero of the oceans. She was worried about all the dolphins and whales killed during shrimp farming, so the marine biologist created a tasty, affordable plant-based shrimp alternative. And she's just one of the sheroes you will discover in The Future of Science is Female.Real encouragement and inspiration for today's amazing girls. Forget the "ivory tower" of accomplishment. Learn about the drama, tears, and adventures everyday women heroes face as they race to fix everything the world has messed up. The Future of Science is Female inspires future female founders of the world to turn their dreams into reality.Readers of inspiring books about strong women like The Book of Awesome Women, Galaxy Girls, and Girls Who Run the World will love The Future of Science is Female. Inside also learn about:Kimberlie Le and her edible synthesized fungi that tastes just like your favorite seafoodPree Walia's Nailbot, a portable printer that prints nail art from a cellphone and encourages girls to join STEM programs Read more

Little Hands, Big Dreams is an inspiring and heartfelt memoir that captures the incredible journey of Dr. Edgar Hernández, from a young boy in rural Mexico to a renowned surgeon in the United States. Written with honesty and warmth, this book is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of dreams.Dr. Hernández’s storytelling brings his childhood to life—his deep bond with his grandfather, the challenges of immigration, and the obstacles he faced in an unfamiliar world. Young readers will be captivated by Edgar’s courage and persistence, learning valuable lessons about perseverance and the importance of education. The book beautifully highlights the role of mentors, family, and unwavering self-belief in achieving success.More than just a memoir, Little Hands, Big Dreams is a call to action for young readers to dream big, work hard, and never give up, no matter how difficult the journey. It is an excellent addition to any classroom or home library, sparking meaningful conversations about ambition, resilience, and the impact of kindness and support.This is a must-read for children in grades 5-8, educators, and parents alike—an uplifting story that will leave a lasting impression and inspire the next generation of dreamers. Read more

Using ten life-changing moments from his path to space, astronaut Scott Kelly shares his advice for mastering fear and failure and turning our daily struggles into rocket fuel for success—the perfect gift for graduations and other milestone moments!In this insightful and funny read, Scott Kelly shares how a distracted student with poor grades became a record-breaking astronaut and commander of the International Space Station. People think that astronauts are always perfect. "Failure's not an option," right? But as Scott shares in his deeply intimate book, he believes that it's our mistakes and challenges that have the potential to lead to greatness. Not everyone's road to achievement is a straight line. Most of us need to navigate a bumpier road full of obstacles to get where we want to be. Scott’s story is for everyone who believes that shooting for the stars is beyond their reach! Read more

WINNER OF THE 2021 YALSA AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN NONFICTION FOR YOUNG ADULTS! SIX STARRED REVIEWS!Discover the dark side of Charles Lindbergh--one of America's most celebrated heroes and complicated men--in this riveting biography from the acclaimed author of The Family Romanov.First human to cross the Atlantic via airplane; one of the first American media sensations; Nazi sympathizer and anti-Semite; loner whose baby was kidnapped and murdered; champion of Eugenics, the science of improving a human population by controlled breeding; tireless environmentalist. Charles Lindbergh was all of the above and more. Here is a rich, multi-faceted, utterly spellbinding biography about an American hero who was also a deeply flawed man. In this time where values Lindbergh held, like white Nationalism and America First, are once again on the rise, The Rise and Fall of Charles Lindbergh is essential reading for teens and history fanatics alike. Read more

Think. Invent. Organize. Share. Don't be evil. And change the world.Larry Page and Sergey Brin started out as two Stanford college students with a wild idea: They were going to organize the world's information. From that one deceptively simple goal, they created one of the most influential and innovative companies in the world. The word “google” has even entered our vocabulary as a verb. Now, find out the true history of Google―from its humble beginnings as a thesis project made out of “borrowed” hardware and discount toys through its revolution of the world's relationship with technology to a brief glimpse of where they might take us next. In Google It, award-winning investigative reporter Anna Crowley Redding shares an inspiring story of innovation, personal and intellectual bravery, and most importantly, of shooting for the moon in order to change the world. Read more

Traces the life of Franklin Delano Roosevelt from his birth in 1882 through his youth, early political career, and presidency to his death in Warm Springs, Georgia, in 1945. Read more

Meet the female scientists who served as both developers of the atomic bomb—and the first line of criticism against it—in this nonfiction narrative in the tradition of Bomb and Code Girls.  They were leaning over the edge of the unknown and afraid of what they would discover there…   Recruited from labs and universities from across the United States, and even from countries abroad, a little-known group of female scientists were invited into the secret sites of the Manhattan Project. During World War II these women worked on—and in some cases initiated—the development of the atomic bomb, taking starring roles in one of history’s most infamous scientific feats. But despite their involvement, critical to the project’s success, many of them weren’t made fully aware of the consequences.   This book explores not just the steps toward the creation of a successful nuclear bomb, but also the moral implications of such an invention—and how female scientists of the time grappled with the fallout. In an eye-opening revisionist history, this book celebrates the diversity and complexity of a watershed moment in history.   The atomic women you’ll learn about include: Lise Meitner and Irène Joliot-Curie (daughter of Marie Curie), who laid the groundwork for the Manhattan Project from Europe Elizabeth Rona, the foremost expert in plutonium, who gave rise to "Fat Man" and "Little Boy," the bombs dropped over Japan Leona Woods, Elizabeth Graves, and Joan Hinton, who were inspired by European scientific ideals but carved their own paths Perfect for…★ Fans of Oppenheimer and Hidden Figures★ Women in STEM★ Readers of Elizabeth Wein, Steve Sheinkin, and Kate Quinn★ History lovers Read more

An inspiring true story, perfect for fans of Hidden Figures, about an American woman who pioneered codebreaking in WWI and WWII but was only recently recognized for her extraordinary contributions.A YALSA EXCELLENCE IN NONFICTION FINALIST • A KIRKUS REVIEWS BEST BOOK OF THE YEARElizebeth Smith Friedman had a rare talent for spotting patterns and solving puzzles. These skills led her to become one of the top cryptanalysts in America during both World War I and World War II. She originally came to code breaking through her love for Shakespeare when she was hired by an eccentric millionaire to prove that Shakespeare's plays had secret messages in them. Within a year, she had learned so much about code breaking that she was a star in the making. She went on to play a major role decoding messages during WWI and WWII and also for the Coast Guard's war against smugglers.   Elizebeth and her husband, William, became the top code-breaking team in the US, and she did it all at a time when most women weren't welcome in the workforce. Amy Butler Greenfield is an award-winning historian and novelist who aims to shed light on this female pioneer of the STEM community. Read more