New Book
A National Science Teachers Association, Best STEM Book. Here is the story of Ben Franklin’s first invention, his journey through the scientific method, and the surprising successes that result when you’re willing to make mistakes. Every inventor has to start somewhere, and one of the greatest innovators in our history was no exception. Ben Franklin developed his first invention while doing what he loved best: swimming! Barb Rosenstock’s rhythmic, whimsical style is the perfect complement to S. D. Schindler’s pen and ink and watercolor illustrations. Together they recreate history in an engaging and unique way. Both author and illustrator worked closely with Franklin experts, and the book includes Franklin quotes, an extensive author’s note, timeline, and bibliography.
About the Author:
Barb Rosenstock likes true stories about real people. She is the author of nonfiction and historical fiction children’s books that combine deep research and playful language to bring history to life. Her book, The Noisy Paint Box, illustrated by Mary Grandpré, received a Caldecott Honor in 2015. Other awards include an Orbis Pictus Honor, a Sydney Taylor Honor and the California Library Association Beatty Award as well as numerous national and state recognitions. Barb loves sharing stories and inspiring students in schools and libraries across the country. She lives with her family near Chicago.
About the Illustrator:
S. D. Schindler is the popular and versatile illustrator of many books for children, including Big Pumpkin and the ALA Notable Book Don’t Fidget a Feather, both by Erica Silverman, How Santa Got His Job by Stephen Krensky, and Johnny Appleseed by Rosemary and Stephen Vincent Benét. He lives in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Ben Franklin’s Big Splash
Ben Franklin’s Big Splash by Barb Rosenstock Reviews:
”. . . The alliterative, sibilant text is a rollicking read to share aloud with young students . . . The watercolor and ink artwork conveys joy and motion, with young Ben splashing into the water, gleefully trying out his fins. An extensive bibliography, source notes for quotations, and a time line of Franklin’s life add to the veracity and strength of this story. This is a fun introduction to one of the nation’s founding fathers and a solid addition to collections needing a different perspective on this American icon.” —School Library Journal, starred review
” . . . Here’s a slightly fictionalized tale to celebrate one of Ben’s less-heralded accomplishments: self-taught swimmer. . . The text’s tone is light and optimistic. Select words and phrases appear in larger colorful type, which, together with Schindler’s lively ink and watercolor paintings, gives the book a breezy feel. . . ” —The Horn Book Magazine
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