The Book of Inventions Harrison, Ian and Fry, Art

Combining curious and colorful anecdotes with intricate research and photographs, National Geographic presents a fact-filled and lively history of inventions and their inventors. With a creative and humorous approach to reference, The Book of Inventions is a spirited and engaging look at knowledge and history.

From the tiny paperclip to the massive jet engine, and from mastermind Leonardo da Vinci to quirky vacuum-cleaner inventor James Dyson, The Book of Inventions is encyclopedic in scope and entertaining in the extreme. Learn the dates, details, and amazing stories of how some of our most interesting and useful objects have been invented. Presented in an eye-catching retro style, the book's nine chapters reveal how innovations as diverse as the disposable diaper, the zipper, the hair dryer, the photocopier, the artificial heart, and the traffic light have affected all aspects of our daily lives. Compelling and colorful layouts enhance each spread and break down information into small bits that are accessible to readers of all ages.

With sliced bread and the lava lamp among his selected inventions, Harrison aims to please more than teach. He allocates a two-page spread for each item, giving it a kaleidoscopic visual treatment with a text block about the inventor, an unusual photograph of the brainchild, and a humorous or historic photograph of the invention in use. In addition to its entertainment value, Harrison's work includes a number of women inventors (e.g., the inventor of Kevlar), who are too often neglected in the invention-book genre. Fun and colorful, Harrison's volume will attract would-be Edisons. Gilbert Taylor
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