Nonfriction Monday

The Renaissance Inventors with History Projects for Kids, by Alicia Z. Klepeis is part of the Renaissance For Kids Series from Nomad Press. Klepeis structures her work around chapter biographies of Johannes Gutenberg, Leon Battista Alberti, Leonardo da Vinci, Gerardus Mercator, and Galileo Galilei to introduce readers to the lives of some of the most prolific inventors of their time.

An introduction, Invention During the Renaissance, examines factors such as economic growth, expansion of trade, movement of people from farms to cities, and the increased number of educated individuals brought about by the availability of books that combined to create opportunities for invention.

Each biographical chapter utilizes primary sources and a timeline to trace the life of an inventor with careful attention paid to the obstacles met and overcome in their quest for discovery. Readers not only explore some of the more familiar inventions, but are also provided with additional information about lesser known successes.

Before Gutenberg could make his idea for a printing press a reality, he had to create a metal that could be used to form the letters, formulate an ink that wouldn’t run or smudge, and determine the precise pressure needed to transfer letters onto paper. Prior to becoming famous for his printing press, he first invented a new technology for polishing gemstones.

Alberti’s interest in science and technology, combined with his association with artists resulted in his first book, On Painting, which demonstrated how to create three-dimensional images using the concept of perspective. His fascination with architecture and engineering resulted in a second book, On The Art of Building, which led to his work in designing some Italy’s famous churches. Alberti’s curiosity took him in many directions. In 1450 he designed the first machine for measuring wind speed. In 1467, he invented the cipher wheel for encoding messages.

Leonardo da Vinci is a name that is synonymous with the Renaissance because he is so well known as an artist, scientist, and inventor. He also worked as a military engineer and architect. He studied botany, geology, aerodynamics, mathematics, and human anatomy. The Mona Lisa and The Last Supper, two of da Vinci’s most famous paintings are known all over the world, but he is equally famous for in experiments with parachutes, helicopters and airplanes.

Mercator taught mathematics, geography, and cosmography and was skilled in the use of Italic script. These interests served him well when he began working to make maps, globes and scientific instruments. In 1569, Mercator produced a new map and atlas that enabled explorers to more successfully navigate their way around the world.

Galileo’s contributions to the science of astronomy included confirming the earlier work of Copernicus, improving the telescope, and discovering the moons of Jupiter. He also designed a pendulum clock. His mathematical skills added to our understanding of mechanics and the laws of motion.

As with the other volumes in the series, readers are challenged to ask questions and use critical thinking skills in response to a series of hands-on projects that are offered at the end of each chapter. Photographs highlight the subjects and provide historical context. Multiple text boxes offer additional facts, quotes, and insights on a variety of topics from Renaissance women to the Chinese invention of the toothbrush. Calls to action are strategically placed throughout: Wonder Why? poses additional questions for consideration.  Connect contains QR codes for audio and video files. Words of Wonder directs readers to a multi-page glossary at the end of the book. Resources provides a list of books, videos, and museums for further exploration.

The book is well organized and the content expands on familiar facts and introduces readers to details that are often overlooked. It is not only educational, but is also a pleasure to read. The text and illustrations are richly detailed. The conversational tone and age-appropriate vocabulary is appealing.

Recommended for STEM home and school libraries.