January 1, 2018
Each of these engaging biographies introduces readers to the creator of a popular classic kids' toy or game. The texts are generally positive (and overuse exclamation points) but don't ignore difficulties and hardship, both personal and business-related. Captioned photos, archival reproductions, and "Fun Fact" boxes liven up the pages. The topics have ready-made kid-appeal; readers will glean insight into product development and the challenges of running a business. Timeline. Glos., ind.
(Copyright 2018 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)
September 15, 2017
Youngsters far and wide can readily identify the pudgy Pikachu, zany Mr. Potato Head, enterprising Mr. Monopoly, or bespectacled Molly McIntyrebut what about the masterminds behind them? The Toy Trailblazers series presents the lives and crowning achievements of twentieth-century inventors in slim, 12-chapter volumes. Arranged chronologically, entries kick off with biographical information before homing in on the inception, formation, and ultimate success of each invention. In Mr. Potato Head Inventor, readers meet George Lerner, a man on a mission to prevent his children from playing with their food. The resulting Funny Faces kit for dressing up real fruits or vegetables snagged the attention of Hasbroand the country. With captioned full-color photographs, inset fun fact sidebars, ample historical context, and appended time lines, this is a bright, engaging resource sure to spark curiosity and creativity in primary-grade readers.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)