Do you remember who invented the Post It note? Or the Polaroid camera? You may know the name of the Heimlich maneuver, but do you know anything about Dr. Heimlich himself, who invented the famous move?

This book features twelve scientists, chemists, doctors, engineers, and astronauts whose inventions or actions are well-known, but the people themselves are less than famous. Including the inventions of Velcro, Teflon, Kevlar, the Polaroid camera, bionic limbs, laser eye surgery for cataracts, and the CPR method, this book gives short bios of the almost-famous inventors, along with a comedic poem or song written by the author in their honor, and sometimes a small comic sketch or personal anecdote.

This book is FULL of “Dad jokes”. There are cringey puns and wisecracks on every page that will make anyone remember their own dad and his terrible jokes. The humor might appeal to a 7-year-old boy, but I spent most of the book rolling my eyes at the ridiculous one-liners.
For instance, this gem is found in the chapter about Dr. Sally Ride, the first American woman in space. “… meals on the space shuttle were similar to those astronauts might eat at home. I can imagine what Dr. Sally Ride had for breakfast. I can also imagine what Dr. Sally Ride had for dinner. My only question is… what did she have for launch?”

Not exactly captivating entertainment, but I think this book would appeal to children with a silly sense of humor.

I enjoyed the actual information about these incredible men and women, and the fascinating inventions and brave deeds that they accomplished.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.