"30 ingenious ideas for innovative kids explained in half a minute"--Cover.

These inventions changed the world - learn all about them in just 30 seconds! From the first flushing toilet to futuristic robots, Inventions in 30 Seconds explains how key inventions revolutionized the world. Delivered in an energetic, informative style, children will gain a better understanding of how everyday life has been shaped by great inventions. The 30 Seconds series takes readers on a journey of discovery through a wide range of fascinating subjects. Each topic is presented as a quick 30-second soundbite, supported by flash summaries and full-color artwork. Fun, interactive missions with things to make or do support the topics, encouraging readers to test, explore, and discover even more.

The inventions and inspiration of Benjamin Franklin and how they've stood the test of time What would you do if you lived in a community without a library, hospital, post office, or fire department? If you were Benjamin Franklin, you'd set up these organizations yourself. Franklin also designed the lightning rod, suggested the idea of daylight savings time, and invented bifocals-all inspired by his common sense and intelligence. In this informative book, Gene Barretta brings Benjamin Franklin's genius to life, deepening our appreciation for one of the most influential figures in American history. Now & Ben is a 2007 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.

A guide to ancient accomplishments and inventions unearths the origins of modern creations, including computers in ancient Greece, plastic surgery in India in the first century B.C., and a postal service in medieval Baghdad

Both Thomas Edison and Henry Ford started off as insatiably curious tinkerers. That curiosity led them to become inventors—with very different results. As Edison invented hit after commercial hit, gaining fame and fortune, Henry struggled to make a single invention (an affordable car) work. Witnessing Thomas's glorious career from afar, a frustrated Henry wondered about the secret to his success. This little-known story is a fresh, kid-friendly way to show how Thomas Edison and Henry Ford grew up to be the most famous inventors in the world—and best friends, too.

This series motivates kids to take charge of their interests, talents, and goals!