Great Inventors and Their Inventions

Children's Literature - Jeanne K. Pettenati J.D.

Engaging text framed by classical music selections is featured on these CDs, which detail important facts in the lives of nine extraordinary inventors. The Wright Brothers, Alexander Graham Bell, Thomas Edison, Archimedes, Benjamin Franklin, Johann Gutenberg, Alfred Nobel, and Guglielmo Marconi were inventors that changed the world with their creations. Although they worked on different projects at different times in different cities of the world, their single-mindedness and sense of purpose set them apart from their fellow citizens. Some had support from their parents and some did not, some were independently wealthy and some were not, some had formal schooling and some did not, and some faced ridicule from those around them. No matter. These men forged on despite criticism and lack of support to achieve their goals. The stories are quite remarkable and inspirational. The reading is always clear and well-paced; however, some listeners may be put off by the reader's British accent. If these listeners can be encouraged to stick with it, they will be well rewarded. There are two compact discs, totaling just over 2 ½ hours, in this set. This title, which is great for a long car trip, is one in the publisher's "Junior Classics" series. Reviewer: Jeanne K. Pettenati, J.D.