George Washington Carver: Ingenious Inventor

by Nathan Olson, Keith Tucker (Illustrator)

Tells the story of plant scientist and inventor George Washington Carver. Written in graphic-novel format.

Genres: History, Biography, Graphic Novels, Nonfiction

32 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2006

Reviews

[StrictlySequential · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Peanut Butter" is never directly mentioned, showing that it was only a small part of this genius' legacy- instead, you see him giving a little girl a slice of bread with "Peanut Paste" in passing.

If he were alive, I am certain that as a legitimate GENIUS and the foremost peanut expert he would put an end to this pernicious peanut allergy and possibly even "cure" those who are always dodging microscopic death-dealing dangers or can't help but crave compatibility with the cream and crunch!

Not only was his scientific prowess legendary, his teaching and public advice also greatly improved farming and crop quality while having the time to cause widespread legislative changes that greatly benefited U.S. farmers! His flair for the arts personally and professionally was not forgotten- among other pursuits, he painted portraits of plants and patented cosmetics for women (and some *non-women*) with his cutting-edge peanut paints (aka cosmetics) for their faces!

*= How's that for being with the times and promoting progress? ~!~Take note boys, girls and the rest of the gender/sex diaspora: EXCLUSION IS OUT! INclusion is -and needs to remain- IN~!~

READ AT THE SAME TIME AS THE BOOKER T. WASHINGTON BIO IF POSSIBLE

[Kristin · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's good as a general overview. However, it just glazes over his faith which was a driving force throughout his life. it also doesn't share much about the fact that the Carver's had a deep love for George and FORMALLY adopted him as their son. They were his biggest cheerleaders on his quest for knowledge having recognized his brilliance and gift for horticulture when he was a boy.

[Anthony · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick biography of the life time achievements of George W. Carver. The focus here is on his early life and eventually his work with the peanut while at Tuskegee Institute.

[Valerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summary: This book contains the story of George Washinton Carver's life in an action-packed, nonfiction, graphic novel format.

Potential Audience (reading level): grades 4-6; fluent

Genre: Biography/Nonfiction graphic novel

Topic: The life and inventions of George Washington Carver and how he discovered many uses for the peanut, in addition to many other things.

Specific curricular uses: This book would be great for independent reading time for a 5th or 6th grade class - kids would find the graphic/comic book style of this book a refreshing way to read a biography.

Social issues the book addresses: Slavery, the Great Depression, Discrimination against black people, George Washington Carver's efforts to transcend discrimination in the education and professional fields.

Specific literary elements: The author uses dialogue to introduce much of the information in the story.

Interactions and counter actions of text and images: The whole book is in a graphic/comic book format, which weaves together the images in the story and the text very closely. I thought the comic book format was a unique way to present so many detailed facts because it kept the story very interesting and gave the readers a good visual picture of what the text was saying.

[Ms. Arca · Rating 3 out of 5]

I learned about the man who brought us many uses (and tons of information) about plant life (especially peanuts!). If you ever wondered who was behind peanut butter.. It's time you learned about Mr. George Washington Carver.