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STEM Trailblazer Bios / Biografías de Pioneros STEM
Super Soaker Inventor Lonnie Johnson
As a kid, Lonnie Johnson liked to invent things. He often faced prejudice as an African American growing up in the segregated southern United States, but he eventually became an engineer for the US Air Force and NASA. He was working on a different invention when he came up with the idea for a new type of water gun. Johnson knew his toy was more powerful than other squirt guns―he just needed to find a way to make the Super Soaker available to kids all over the country. Learn how Johnson overcame many challenges to become a brilliant engineer and inventor.
- GenresBiography
32 pages, Paperback
Published August 1, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
July 5, 2018
What a great bio on a fantastic inventor - Lonnie Johnson! This book will really get kids excited about a STEM path to their future! Also a great story about how if you follow your dreams and work hard you can make the opportunities others would deny you. Great book for the young inventor in your life!
May 10, 2019
“There is no short, easy route to success.”
Growing up in the segregated South, Lonnie Johnson was told he would never become an engineer. But Lonnie had big dreams. Inspired by his father and George Washington Carver, Lonnie pursued his passion. He first invented a robot with a remote control that helped him win a state science fair. He attended Tuskegee University and received degrees in mechanical and nuclear engineering.
His work has had profound impact on NASA’s space exploration program and contributed to the eco-friendly advancements of solar energy. But his playful side led him to invent the Super Soaker, NERF dart gun and even a diaper that, when soiled, plays a nursery rhyme. He holds 80 patents.
Such an interesting story! A quick read with a lot of information. A great addition to my library. Nice bibliography for further reading and a timeline of major events.
Growing up in the segregated South, Lonnie Johnson was told he would never become an engineer. But Lonnie had big dreams. Inspired by his father and George Washington Carver, Lonnie pursued his passion. He first invented a robot with a remote control that helped him win a state science fair. He attended Tuskegee University and received degrees in mechanical and nuclear engineering.
His work has had profound impact on NASA’s space exploration program and contributed to the eco-friendly advancements of solar energy. But his playful side led him to invent the Super Soaker, NERF dart gun and even a diaper that, when soiled, plays a nursery rhyme. He holds 80 patents.
Such an interesting story! A quick read with a lot of information. A great addition to my library. Nice bibliography for further reading and a timeline of major events.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews