Families who loved The Marvelous Thing That Came From a Spring by Gilbert Ford often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is frustrated by a project that did not go as planned or when they feel like their 'mistakes' are failures. It serves as a gentle reminder that some of the world's most joyful inventions began as happy accidents. This beautifully illustrated true story follows Richard James, the engineer who accidentally invented the Slinky when a spring fell off his desk and started to 'walk.' It captures the spirit of curiosity and the persistence required to turn a small idea into a household name. Parents will appreciate how it validates the trial-and-error process of engineering while celebrating the power of play. It is a perfect selection for children ages 4 to 8 who are beginning to explore the world of building, making, and creative problem solving.
