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Awesome Achievers in Science: Super and Strange Facts about 12 Almost Famous History Makers
Part of a super fun middle grade series, Awesome Achievers in Science puts the spotlight on lesser-known heroes and their contributions in major scientific fields.Everyone has heard the names Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, but what about Michael Collins--the third brave Apollo 11 astronaut who didn't get to walk on the moon? Many of the most relevant figures in scientific history have remained in the shadows, but not any longer! From Alan Katz's new Awesome Achievers series, Awesome Achievers in Science gives kids a look behind the scenes at 12 lesser-known scientists whose contributions are personally relevant to their lives today. Each figure is given a traditional biography but is also subject to Katz's unique brand of silliness, with humorous elements such as imagined poems, song lyrics, and diary entries by or about the not-so-famous figure accompanying each bio. Spot illustrations throughout add to the lighthearted and appreciative humor each figure receives. Reluctant readers and budding scientists alike will delight in this imaginative and engaging continuation of a new series of laugh-out-loud biographies.
97 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 6, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
November 14, 2019
If only all biographies could be this entertaining. When you combine Katz's humorous side with interesting stories about a variety of scientists you end up with a book like this one. Twelve scientists are highlighted, most of whom are lesser known but whose work still made a major contribution to society and the world of science. The biographies are short and get right to the point which makes them interesting but not informative enough to use in reports. The extras that Katz provides add to the entertaining nature of the book with a variety of silly commentary provided in comics, poems, and imaginary discussions. This is the kind of nonfiction book that it isn't hard to get students to pick up and read for enjoyment because it's short, interesting, with plenty of humor. Just don't expect to get enough information or bibliographic information to make it useful for reports.
August 28, 2019
Do you remember who invented the Post It note? Or the Polaroid camera? You may know the name of the Heimlich maneuver, but do you know anything about Dr. Heimlich himself, who invented the famous move?
This book features twelve scientists, chemists, doctors, engineers, and astronauts whose inventions or actions are well-known, but the people themselves are less than famous. Including the inventions of Velcro, Teflon, Kevlar, the Polaroid camera, bionic limbs, laser eye surgery for cataracts, and the CPR method, this book gives short bios of the almost-famous inventors, along with a comedic poem or song written by the author in their honor, and sometimes a small comic sketch or personal anecdote.
This book is FULL of "Dad jokes". There are cringey puns and wisecracks on every page that will make anyone remember their own dad and his terrible jokes. The humor might appeal to a 7-year-old boy, but I spent most of the book rolling my eyes at the ridiculous one-liners.
For instance, this gem is found in the chapter about Dr. Sally Ride, the first American woman in space. "... meals on the space shuttle were similar to those astronauts might eat at home. I can imagine what Dr. Sally Ride had for breakfast. I can also imagine what Dr. Sally Ride had for dinner. My only question is... what did she have for launch?"
Another shabby one... "I once orbited Pluto all by myself! I walked completely around him at Disneyland!"
Not exactly captivating entertainment, but I think this book would appeal to children with a silly sense of humor.
I enjoyed the actual information about these incredible men and women, and the fascinating inventions and brave deeds that they accomplished.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
This book features twelve scientists, chemists, doctors, engineers, and astronauts whose inventions or actions are well-known, but the people themselves are less than famous. Including the inventions of Velcro, Teflon, Kevlar, the Polaroid camera, bionic limbs, laser eye surgery for cataracts, and the CPR method, this book gives short bios of the almost-famous inventors, along with a comedic poem or song written by the author in their honor, and sometimes a small comic sketch or personal anecdote.
This book is FULL of "Dad jokes". There are cringey puns and wisecracks on every page that will make anyone remember their own dad and his terrible jokes. The humor might appeal to a 7-year-old boy, but I spent most of the book rolling my eyes at the ridiculous one-liners.
For instance, this gem is found in the chapter about Dr. Sally Ride, the first American woman in space. "... meals on the space shuttle were similar to those astronauts might eat at home. I can imagine what Dr. Sally Ride had for breakfast. I can also imagine what Dr. Sally Ride had for dinner. My only question is... what did she have for launch?"
Another shabby one... "I once orbited Pluto all by myself! I walked completely around him at Disneyland!"
Not exactly captivating entertainment, but I think this book would appeal to children with a silly sense of humor.
I enjoyed the actual information about these incredible men and women, and the fascinating inventions and brave deeds that they accomplished.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
August 16, 2019
This new series by Alan Katz makes learning fun. He uses humor kids will find hilarious alongside factual stories about the people behind some really common and cool inventions that we all use every day. The series is perfect for middle-grade kids because the chapters are short and are mixed with fun illustrations, poems, or silly stories that Katz has made up or shares about his own life.
Kids may recognize some names like Dr. Henry Heimlich or Dr. Sally Ride, but there are plenty of other lesser-known scientists whose contributions are quite important to our daily lives. George de Mestral’s invention of Velcro has quite the fascinating story behind its idea. You also may not ever hear the song “Stayin Alive” the same way again after reading about one of the doctors in the book.
Katz’s humor and way of getting kids interested in learning are evident through his silly poems and Judge’s illustrations. This series is great for kids would don’t have the attention span for a longer fictional story, but need to read a chapter book. Also, kids interested in STEM activities will love learning all the behind-the-scenes facts on items we use or contributions that benefit our lives every day. It may just inspire them to be a doctor or scientist.
Kids may recognize some names like Dr. Henry Heimlich or Dr. Sally Ride, but there are plenty of other lesser-known scientists whose contributions are quite important to our daily lives. George de Mestral’s invention of Velcro has quite the fascinating story behind its idea. You also may not ever hear the song “Stayin Alive” the same way again after reading about one of the doctors in the book.
Katz’s humor and way of getting kids interested in learning are evident through his silly poems and Judge’s illustrations. This series is great for kids would don’t have the attention span for a longer fictional story, but need to read a chapter book. Also, kids interested in STEM activities will love learning all the behind-the-scenes facts on items we use or contributions that benefit our lives every day. It may just inspire them to be a doctor or scientist.
August 11, 2019
Are you feeling healthier, smarter, happier and safer? If so, a lot of that happiness might just be as a result of science. You’re probably familiar with the subdiaphragmatic pressure move right? Well, it’s better known as the Heimlich maneuver named after surgeon Henry Heimlich. If you had to give up one of your five senses, which one would you choose? During a recent survey most would not give up their sight. No worries, if you’ve been diagnosed with cataracts you can thank Dr. Patricia Bath for finding a way to remove them. How is your heart beating these days? No need to worry help is on the way. Thanks to Dr. James Jude, the CPR technique is a good way to help jump start your heart.
Author Alan Katz has selected a few of his favorites to feature within this handy guide for kids. Readers will have a chance to learn about twelve famous history makers, that were simple everyday people with an idea. Readers will also find fun facts, poems, funny cartoons and even personal notes from the author. Parents and teachers will enjoy learning and sharing with kids too.
Author Alan Katz has selected a few of his favorites to feature within this handy guide for kids. Readers will have a chance to learn about twelve famous history makers, that were simple everyday people with an idea. Readers will also find fun facts, poems, funny cartoons and even personal notes from the author. Parents and teachers will enjoy learning and sharing with kids too.
August 2, 2019
Alan Katz’s Awesome Achievers series is a cleverly fun and laugh-out-loud middle-grade series that introduces readers to amazing people who did/invented/discovered/etc extraordinary things, but may not be as well-known as their peers. Engaging writing, well presented facts and information, and pitch-perfect humor abound in these delightful page turners.
In each Awesome Achievers book, Katz explores 12 important people, presenting quick, captivating bios and highlighting their achievements in easily understood ways. Each book features a wide range of diverse people whose accomplishments cover a wide range of careers, scientific fields, and more. Through snort-inducing humor and silly illustrations, poems, letters, and more, Katz wonderfully honors and celebrates each person, while encouraging readers to explore even further.
Awesome Achievers in Science and Awesome Achievers in Technology will inspire readers’ minds and imaginations, and amusingly entertain from beginning to end.
In each Awesome Achievers book, Katz explores 12 important people, presenting quick, captivating bios and highlighting their achievements in easily understood ways. Each book features a wide range of diverse people whose accomplishments cover a wide range of careers, scientific fields, and more. Through snort-inducing humor and silly illustrations, poems, letters, and more, Katz wonderfully honors and celebrates each person, while encouraging readers to explore even further.
Awesome Achievers in Science and Awesome Achievers in Technology will inspire readers’ minds and imaginations, and amusingly entertain from beginning to end.
August 20, 2019
This book is a fun way to learn about scientists who've helped make our world a better, and safer, place. Read my full review here: https://agoodreid.blogspot.com/2019/0...
September 10, 2019
So, it’s especially nice when nonfiction books actually present new information. These two volumes are perfect examples. Katz gives us information that is simply not same-old same-old.
For the full review: https://twobookwormsblog.wordpress.co...
For the full review: https://twobookwormsblog.wordpress.co...
April 17, 2019
Alan Katz has done it again!
October 31, 2019
I was provided with a copy of this book in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Awesome Achievers in Science includes 12 biographies of 'almost famous' persons who have changed the world with their scientific contributions, paired with fun illustrations as well as humorous anecdotes, jokes and more!
The 'almost famous' scientific persons include Dr. Henry Hiemlich who set out to find a way to help people who are choking,
Dr. Patricia Bath who invented a laser probe that removes cataracts and allows people to see again, Dr. Hugh Herr who created prosthetic limbs, the man who invented Velcro, the woman who helped develop Kevlar, and more.
Katz includes scientific discoveries and inventions that are relevant and used today! This fun and educational little book will keep you entertained and teach you a little something about the people who are usually kept behind the scenes when it comes to science!
Curious kids that love humor and jokes will enjoy this series!
This review was originally shared on Lazy Day Literature
Awesome Achievers in Science includes 12 biographies of 'almost famous' persons who have changed the world with their scientific contributions, paired with fun illustrations as well as humorous anecdotes, jokes and more!
The 'almost famous' scientific persons include Dr. Henry Hiemlich who set out to find a way to help people who are choking,
Dr. Patricia Bath who invented a laser probe that removes cataracts and allows people to see again, Dr. Hugh Herr who created prosthetic limbs, the man who invented Velcro, the woman who helped develop Kevlar, and more.
Katz includes scientific discoveries and inventions that are relevant and used today! This fun and educational little book will keep you entertained and teach you a little something about the people who are usually kept behind the scenes when it comes to science!
Curious kids that love humor and jokes will enjoy this series!
This review was originally shared on Lazy Day Literature
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews