The Fantastic Ferris Wheel: The Story of Inventor George Ferris

Kraft and Salerno highlight the technical difficulties and skepticism that accompanied the creation of what’s now known as the Ferris wheel as they profile inventor George Ferris. During preparations for the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago, Ferris presented designs for a steam engine–driven observation wheel with 36 passenger cars. Many doubted the plausibility (and safety) of such a mechanism, but on May 1, the wheel welcomed its first passengers to soaring success. Salerno’s precisely drafted illustrations give a solid sense of the era, including intricate renderings of Chicago architecture and the construction of the wheel, while Kraft creates a genuine suspense in the lead-up to its debut. Ages 5–9. (Oct.)