Back of Book:
You know the Super Soaker. It’s one of top twenty toys of all time. And it was invented entirely by accident. Trying to create a new cooling system for refrigerators and air conditioners, impressive inventor Lonnie Johnson instead created the mechanics for the iconic toy.
A love for rockets, robots, inventions, and a mind for creativity began early in Lonnie Johnson’s life. Growing up in a house full of brothers and sisters, persistence and a passion for problem solving became the cornerstone for a career as an engineer and his work with NASA. But it is his invention and of the Super Soaker water gun that has made his most memorable splash with kids and adults.
My Review:
I was raised in the 90s so Super Soakers were apart of every summer. Everyone I knew had one. When I saw that there was a biography picture book about the man who invented them, I knew I needed it in my collection. I loved reading about the determination of Lonnie Johnson. The story begins with his childhood and ends with the invention of the soaker. It was fun to share this story with my students. They loved hearing about the creation of a toy that they all play with regularly. The illustrations are Don Tate and have beautiful images and detail. There is a note in the back of the book from the author about his interview with Lonnie Johnson. This is a great story to give to any readers who want to be inventors. I would also recommended adding this to all summer reading lists.
Ages 6 and up
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