The Inventor’s Workshop: How People and Machines Transformed Each Other

“Step inside the workshops of ten inventions that changed the world,” Amos proposes at the start of this whirlwind tour of technological development. From telephones and computers, to light bulbs and television, chapters itemize the variations that have preceded each piece’s modern rendition. As timelines provide further context, boxes describe the mechanical functioning of some objects (“How did Watt’s steam engine work?”), and additional sections further highlight related inventor-driven efforts (mathematician Gladys West’s contributions to GPS). Narration primarily serves to name-check key terms, indicated in bold, and occasionally supplies fascinating tidbits (Edison’s trying to use beard hair as filament). Offering an absorbing break from the avalanche of information, Thomas’s detailed cartoons showcase inventor workshops cluttered with paraphernalia. The creators make clear that inventions aren’t the brainchild of a single individual, but the result of many efforts. Characters are portrayed with various skin tones, and text emphasizes global contributions to technological advancement. Back matter consists of a glossary and further resources. Ages 8–11. (Oct.)