Whoosh!

This book teaches students about the invention process. Students can see it is all about trial and error and that it takes lots of dedication and hard work to make an invention successful.

• Author: Chris Barton
• Illustrator: Don Tate
• Year Published: 2017
• ISBN: 978-1580892971

Science Topics

• Physical Science

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

• 3rd Grade

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

• 8th Grade

Summary

This is the true story of Lonnie Johnson and his invention of the Super-Soaker water gun. We learn about Lonnie’s childhood and his interest in engineering and inventing from a very young age. We see Lonnie face challenges and overcome them in order to make his water gun a big success. This is a 2017 Bluebonnet book.

Evaluation

• Appropriateness: High
• Authority: High
• Accuracy: High
• Liteary Artistry: High
• Appearance: High

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

This book teaches students about the invention process. Students can see it is all about trial and error and that it takes lots of dedication and hard work to make an invention successful.

Does the book provide an opportunity for children to ask and answer their own questions?

This books gives students the opportunity to to be inspired to think scientifically and invent even at a young age.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

This story provide students with a role model they can relate to because it is the the book tells readers about Lonnie's whole life, starting with his childhood. Students can see that young people can be dreamers and inventors too.

Is the science topic addressed in ways that are appropriate to the lesson?

This story gives readers a general idea of what the invention process is like but does not go too in depth to the point where students would be overwhelmed or confused.

Is the content based on sound scientific principles? Is it accurate?

This book is a biography, based on a true story.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

The book explains at the beginning and end that the story is based on fact.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are cartoon like but look similar to real life photographs.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

This is a picture book that I feel could be utilized across multiple grade levels.

Is there a multicultural component? Is it free from stereotyping?

This book is the story of an African American inventor and engineer, Lonnie Johnson. The book talks about his background and the struggles he went through to make the super soaker a success.

Is the book free from gender bias?

The main character is a male engineer. However, I do not feel the book presents a stereotype that women can not be engineers.

Does the book show the close association between science and other disciplines?

This story clearly illustrates the process of inventing something. Students could also go in depth on how the super soaker works.

Does the book present a positive attitude toward science and technology?

The super soaker is something many kids are familiar with and something they associate with fun. Therefore, this is a topic that will be interesting to many.