The Book of Massively Epic Engineering Disasters: 33 Thrilling Experiments Based on History's Greatest Blunders

Gr 5 Up—Connolly, author of over 30 other books for children and young adults (most on similar topics), provides the details on a number of historically epic disasters in engineering. From the Titanic and Leaning Tower of Pisa to the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, Connolly explains the possible errors that led to disastrous results. Thirty-three experiments allow readers to examine for themselves what may cause a tower to collapse, a ship to spill enormous amounts of oil into the water, and more. Two-color cartoon images accompany the historical accounts and activities; however, these images tend to skew on the younger side. Each project includes simple steps and explains its relation to the disaster it means to mimic. With ever-advancing technology present in the lives of readers, this text provides the chance for aspiring architects, engineers, and other problem solvers to understand past mistakes before building future wonders. Parents, children, and educators can turn to this book for quick problems to solve. After understanding the flaws that led to disaster, students could then attempt to create their own structures or vehicles with a better understanding of the engineering behind them.