Photographs and text explore such inventions as the wheel, gears, levers, clocks, telephones, and rocket engines.

Can you believe that the first tennis balls didn't bounce? Or that the world's first basketball hoop was a peach crate? Get ready to learn the amazing stories behind inventions you use every day. From the Minnesota teen who invented water skis to the Missouri mechanic who came up with the idea of driving over cars with his monster pickup truck, you'll find out how we got some of our favorite entertainment inventions.

"Highlights fascinating facts about inventions, from the first usage of glue tens of thousands of years ago to 3-D printers used in space. Learn about a forgotten drink turned into a beloved summer treat, the first words ever recorded, a remote controlled boat from the 1800s, and more"--

Presents the life of the statesman and inventor who played an influential role in the early history of the United States, along with instructions on building models of some of his inventions.

Makerspaces, labs where hobbyists build things from scratch, are thought to be the new frontier in the entrepreneurial world, and this resource is the perfect gateway for those who have an idea for a product they want to make as well as bring to market. Readers get a sense of what it takes to take that creation and sell it for a profit. What are the costs? How does one get a product into stores? Where are advertising dollars best spent? These are...

"Introduces readers to the life, world, and incredible mind of Leonardo da Vinci through hands-on building projects that explore his invention ideas." --From publisher's description.

"In biomimicry, scientists imitate traits found in nature. An engineer shapes the nose of his bullet train like a kingfisher's beak. A scientist models her solar cell on the mighty leaf. Discover how ten inventors were inspired by animals and plants to create cutting-edge technology"--

Explores the history and inventions of ancient Maya civilization by providing building projects and activities.

"It's fun to spray around at parties, but did you know spray string was a mistake? Oops! Learn the story of how this accidental invention turned into something silly to play with. Simple text and fun photos prove we can create wonders from whoops-es!"--