Gr 3-6–This work highlights 30 important discoveries including the invention of the wheel and artificial intelligence. Each two-page spread features a short history of the discovery, interesting factoids, and a full-page, black-and-white infographic with a single color added. The topics are well researched; brief stories bring the discoveries to life. There is a table of contents, but no index or glossary. Platt’s writing is appropriate for a younger audience but does not oversimplify concepts. He does not avoid uncommon words but takes the time to explain them in clear terms. The writing is geared toward a mid- to upper-elementary audience. The simplicity of the color scheme and line drawings are eye-catching but may be more appealing to older readers. The size of this book can pose a challenge for shelving or transporting. Measuring 11 inches wide by 15 inches tall, it is larger than a “Where’s Waldo?” book and will not easily fit into most bookshelves or backpacks.
VERDICT This is an ideal pick for kids who enjoy books filled with facts, such as David Macaulay’s The Way Things Work Now or DK’s The Way Science Works. A supplemental purchase for most collections.