We finished 'Story of inventions' the other week. I considered not even mentioning it, since I am mostly planning on complaining. Plus I borrowed the book, and already gave it back, so this is only based on my memory -which is pretty faulty at times.
Ah well, if I don't get to complain here, I will do it in person, and this is so much easier for all to skim past and ignore.
The first few chapters cover so much of the details of the inventors lives it gets rather dry and dull. Some tidbits are interesting, and it is useful to note that most all inventors were poor, worked hard, and spent long hours being told they simply couldn't do what they were trying to accomplish. Perseverance pays off. (though ever wonder how many unknown folk also worked hard and just plain failed?)
I am glad we learned so much about the steam engine, ironworking, printing presses, and such. But I am not certain this one book is the best method to cover the topics. On many of the inventors I borrowed books from the library to supplement and engage the children's interest.
Somewhere along the way they did something right, the chapter on Bell was interesting, not only were the details interesting (a real human ear? gross!) but the way it was written was engaging, and informative.
Unfortunately it was all downhill from there. After that the chapters contained less and less science information and more and more preachy-ness. The chapter on TV was less about how a TV works, or even who helped invent one and more about how we need to be careful what we watch. Nothing wrong with the sentiment, but do I really need a science history book to tell me so? The final chapter I couldn't even finish.
We will not be rereading this book when the younger ones are older.
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