Extraordinary Stories Behind the Invention of Ordinary Things

by Don L. Wulffson, Roy Doty

Traces the origin or invention of 28 common, everyday items, such as shopping carts, jigsaw puzzles, frozen foods, zippers, safety pins, vacuum cleaners, and rubber bands.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Childrens

96 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1981

About the author

Don L. Wulffson is the author of more than forty books, including Point Blank, The Kid Who Invented the Popsicle, Future Fright, and The Upside-Down Ship. He lives in Northridge, California.

Reviews

[Min · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am greatly enjoying this author's style, and topics of choice. Discovering when, where, how, and why these items that fill our lives so casually come into being is a source of delight. The stories are told simply and with fun illustrations.
Although meant for children, it can easily be an entertaining party game of obscure knowledge, and education for young and old.

[Joseph · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think I would've loved it when I was younger.

[Theresa F.]

There are some 'children's books' that are written in such a way that the work will also appeal to adults. This book isn't one of them. The writing style is clearly geared towards a juvenile audience, and the information contained is rather condensed. Not only that, but portions of the book have also become very outdated.
Did I like it? It was ok.
Would I reread it? No.
Would I recommend it? This book might make a good initial resource for grade school students looking for a topic for a history report. However, additional sources should be consulted when they actually get down to writing the report.