Do you like looking for different types of books for your students or kids to read? If you’re anything like me, the answer to that is a definite yes. So, in today’s blog, I wanted to share three biographical based books that we have really enjoyed and hopefully you will like them too.
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Book 1: Woosh!
The book Woosh!: Lonnie Johnson’s Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions was such a fun read! We did this at a summer learning camp I worked and the students loved it! This book is perfect for STEM time, Black History Month, or if you want to do a science project on how the super soaker works.
Below is the description:
“You know the Super Soaker. It’s one of top twenty toys of all time. And it was invented entirely by accident. Trying to create a new cooling system for refrigerators and air conditioners, impressive inventor Lonnie Johnson instead created the mechanics for the iconic toy.
A love for rockets, robots, inventions, and a mind for creativity began early in Lonnie Johnson’s life. Growing up in a house full of brothers and sisters, persistence and a passion for problem solving became the cornerstone for a career as an engineer and his work with NASA. But it is his invention of the Super Soaker water gun that has made his most memorable splash with kids and adults.”
Book 2: The Tree Lady
The Tree Lady: The True Story of How One Tree-Loving Woman Changed a City Forever proved to be an intriguing read as well. The students were engaged and we had some interesting discussions about the past and about the trees.
Below is the description:
“Katherine Olivia Sessions never thought she’d live in a place without trees. After all, Kate grew up among the towering pines and redwoods of Northern California. But after becoming the first woman to graduate from the University of California with a degree in science, she took a job as a teacher far south in the dry desert town of San Diego. Where there were almost no trees.
Kate decided that San Diego needed trees more than anything else. So this trailblazing young woman singlehandedly started a massive movement that transformed the town into the green, garden-filled oasis it is today. Now, more than 100 years after Kate first arrived in San Diego, her gorgeous gardens and parks can be found all over the city.
Part fascinating biography, part inspirational story, this moving picture book about following your dreams, using your talents, and staying strong in the face of adversity is sure to resonate with readers young and old.”
Book 3: Mr. Ferris and His Wheel
I found Mr. Ferris and His Wheel at a thrift store and it was an enjoyable read; I mean what kids aren’t fascinated by Ferris Wheels? This book has more words than the other two books, but is still a great read. This would also be a good book for a STEM unit.
Below is the description:
“Capturing an engineer’s creative vision and mind for detail, this fully illustrated picture book biography sheds light on how the American inventor George Ferris defied gravity and seemingly impossible odds to invent the world’s most iconic amusement park attraction, the Ferris wheel.
A fun, fact-filled text by Kathryn Gibbs Davis combines with Gilbert Ford’s dazzling full-color illustrations to transport readers to the 1893 World’s Fair, where George Ferris and his big, wonderful wheel lifted passengers to the skies for the first time.”
In Closing
I hope you are able to get these books or see if the school or local library has them. I highly recommend them! Thanks for stopping by!
And before I go, in case you are new here, School by the Silos combines my passion for education, curriculum making, and Place Based Education. You can learn more about me here & follow along on Instagram. Also, be sure to check out the free printables and visit the shop!
Until next time,
-School by the Silos
