About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts dismantling the toaster or asking why the vacuum cleaner makes such a loud noise. It is the perfect antidote to the modern world of sleek, sealed electronics where we rarely see the inner workings of our belongings. By looking backward at the mechanical ancestors of our modern gadgets, the book demystifies technology and turns everyday household items into marvels of engineering. Through a blend of history and mechanical science, the book explores how people solved problems before electricity was common. It fosters a deep sense of curiosity and appreciation for human ingenuity. For children aged 7 to 11, it provides a fascinating look at the evolution of the home, helping them understand that the world around them was built through trial, error, and clever thinking. It is an ideal choice for encouraging a growth mindset and a 'maker' spirit in young readers.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book is secular and direct. While it reflects the time it was published (1974), it focuses purely on mechanical history. There are no depictions of trauma or sensitive social issues, though it indirectly highlights how much manual labor was once required in the home.
