Children's Science Book Database

Whoosh! Lonnie Johnson’s super-soaking stream of inventions

This book fosters the development of processes Whoosh! Lonnie Johnson’s super-soaking stream of inventions
  • Author: Chris Barton
  • Illustrator: Don Tate
  • Year Published: 2016
  • ISBN: 978-1580892971

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

Summary

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.

Evaluation

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

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

This book fosters the development of processes

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

The book doesn’t directly encourage students to ask and answer questions, but it could stimulate interest

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

This book is in a narrative form, so students aren’t explicitly encouraged to think for themselves

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

Teachers could use this book as a way to introduce inventions and the process of coming up with an invention.

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

The scientific principles are accurate

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

There is no fiction

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are clear and accurate, they add to the story by providing great visuals

Is the book written at the level of your students?

This book is a good read-aloud for all grades, if students were to read this alone, then the book would be for upper elementary school.

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

The story is about a black inventor, there are a few things that could be considered stereotypes but this is about a real person’s life so it his truth.

Is the book free from gender bias?

There are no gender biases

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

The book shows the connection between science and life, and how you can use events in your life to spark interest in science things.

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

Yes, this book shows the kids that science doesn’t have to be boring.