How Was That Built?
The Stories Behind Awesome Structures
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- $15.99
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- $15.99
Publisher Description
This striking book explains the feats of engineering behind the world's most impressive architectural marvels.
One of Smithsonian Magazine's Ten Best Children's Books of 2022
Featured on the Children's Book Council's 2023 Teacher Favorites Award List
From skyscrapers that reach astonishing heights to bridges that span deep and wide rivers, the world is filled with awe-inspiring structures. But how do they work?
Meet the extraordinary people who challenged our beliefs about what's possible, pioneering remarkable inventions that helped build the Brooklyn Bridge in the US, the Pantheon in Italy, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the Shard in England and the Sapporo Dome in Japan. Discover the ingenious methods engineers have come up with to enable us to build underground, underwater, on ice, and even in space.
With text written by award-winning structural engineer Roma Agrawal and detailed full-color illustrations by Katie Hickey, this book provides unique and illuminating perspectives of the world's most incredible constructions. How Was That Built? is a perfect gift for curious kids who want to learn more about construction, architecture, science, technology, and the way things work.
This children's picture book also serves as a fascinating companion to the author's adult nonfiction book Built: The Hidden Stories Behind our Structures, winner of the AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
"Once you read this book, you'll see the world through different eyes—the eyes of an engineer," promises this in-depth introduction to structural engineering. Chapters each examine a construction challenge, such as "how to build tall," "strong," or "underground." Anchoring the discussion are detailed case studies of emblematic engineering marvels such as the Brooklyn Bridge, London's sewers, and Antarctica's Halley VI research station. Throughout, overviews summarize topics such as "advances in concrete" and "ancient water engineering." Agrawal packs a lot in, making the read feel dense, but creative comparisons and DIY experiments help clarify engineering principles. Hickey's pencil-textured illustrations animate edifices and scenes of construction, emphasizing ingenuity. A glossary and an engineers' gallery enhance the book's appeal as a reference for budding builders. Ages 6–9.
