STEAM Stories: The Backyard Build (Engineering)

Litton kicks off the STEAM Stories series of small interactive books. With their kite in a tree, their swing broken, and their soccer ball flat, friends Max and Suzy feel that they have nothing to play with. But when their handy neighbor, Miss Gizmo, builds a bird bath using a broom handle and tray, they are inspired to get to work. Under her guidance, they fix the swing using a sturdy chain, then make a seesaw and slide out of wood they already have. Litton emphasizes the use of problem-solving logic and trial and error: “Although the plastic was slippery, Max couldn’t slide down. ‘Why can’t I slide, Miss Gizmo?’ ” Mansilla illustrates in bright, cartoon graphics speckled with an assortment of potentially useful objects, setting the stage for further inventions. Also available: The Great Go-Kart Race (Science) and Robot Repairs (Technology). Ages 4–6. [em](Oct.) [/em]