Nikola Tesla: A Spark of Genius

by Carol Dommermuth-Costa

Recounts the life and accomplishments of the Croatian-born engineer who developed alternating-current technology and invented the radio.

Genres: Biography, Science, History, Nonfiction

144 pages, Library Binding

First published January 1, 1994

About the author

Carol Dommermuth-Costa is an author based in New York state.

Reviews

[Melissa]

Read as part of a creation of lists for gifted, introverted tweens to enjoy as part of a bibliography. While obviously meant for young readers (Nikola was "prescribed a common medicine of the day" - this could be a reference to opiates, for example), this biography does a great job of providing great information about Nikola's character and drive while describing his major scientific feats and inventions. My middle school students would love this book.

[T.]

Although written for a young audience, this book gives you a good overview and introduction to Tesla. It had some very interesting photos, which along with the narrative, made for a more human perspective on Tesla's life. I would recommend it for budding scientists.

[Claudia Vara]

Very informative.

[Rachael]

A Biographical look at the man who brought us alternating current electricity. Born in Croatia, surviving cholera epidemics and war, Nikola Tesla works his way to America and serves with, later rivaling Thomas Edison. His then controversial, but now revolutionary contributions propelled the United States into scientific advancements that secured world superpower status. From remote controlled selfguided missiles, to personal cell phones and galactic satellites are all outlined and traced back to Nikola Tesla.

[Audrey]

This biography gave me even more insight to Tesla and his life. One of my favorite things in the book is when Tesla is at college and his professor is telling the class that Edison has invented the DC motor. However, the professor says that inventing an AC motor was impossible and could never be done. Just a few short years later, Tesla proves him wrong and solves the puzzle of the AC motor!

Love this book! I'm a major Tesla Fan!!

[Elisabeth Petty]

I stumbled across this book when I was younger and found it fascinating. Nikola Tesla was a rival of Thomas Edison, and he invented many things that nobody even knows about. It's an interesting look at a fairly unkown man.

[Javier Chua]

great inventor to learn from.

[Carol Lander]

This Biography on Tesla is good, but leaves out details. Nice to have the photographs, however.