Grade 4-8-A treasure trove of activities awaits readers of this wonderfully executed survey of the Wright brothers and their invention. The narrative flows easily and is complemented by numerous photographs that give a sense of history and this event. Boxed descriptions of other early flight pioneers enhance Carson's presentation and situate the brothers within their contextual company. The author then introduces 21 activities-hands-on opportunities with gliders; pitch, roll, and yaw; propellers; and, tangentially, Morse code (send a telegram like the Wrights); anemometer (make one to measure the wind); and scones (bake some up like Orville at Kitty Hawk). This is a valuable resource for student reports and projects, and for classroom units. The book opens with an extensive time line; a well-developed glossary, Web sites, and real sites to visit round it out.
Harriett Fargnoli, Great Neck Library, NY
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.
"Combines a detailed and invigorating history . . . with archival projects and clear, illustrated directions." -- Publishers Weekly
Captures on paper the challenge of flight . . . activities that highlight the physics of aerodynamics. -- Metrokids
Extensive and detailed. -- The San Diego Union-Tribune
Has 21 activities that make it fun to explore the science and history of flight. -- Dallas Morning News, May 9, 2003
May inspire a lifelong interest in science and industry . . . definitely a volume for the entire family to explore together. -- Skywest
One of the best I have ever found about the Wright brothers and the invention of human flight. -- Kliatt
Warm, intelligent, and fun. -- The Coast
With Carsons book in hand, kids can make real flying contraptions. -- The Middletown Journal