Inventors and Scientists

Get inspired by the lives of real people whose curiosity and drive led them to become scientists, inventors, makers, and creators.

Dear Benjamin Banneker by Andrea Davis Pinkney
Also available in: e-book

Throughout his life Banneker was troubled that all blacks were not free. And so, in 1791, he wrote to Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson, who had signed the Declaration of Independence. Banneker attacked the institution of slavery and dared to call Jefferson a hypocrite for owning slaves. Jefferson responded. This is the story of Benjamin Banneker--his science, his politics, his morals, and his extraordinary correspondence with Thomas Jefferson. For more on Benjamin Banneker, look up JBIO BANNEKER.

Also available in: e-book | e-audiobook

Patricia Bath made significant contributions to ophthalmology and laser surgery. For more on Patricia Bath, look up JBIO BATH.

Also available in: e-book | e-audiobook

Ernest Everett Just was not like other scientists of his time. He saw the whole, where others saw only parts. He noticed details others failed to see. He persisted in his research despite the discrimination and limitations imposed on him as an African American. His keen observations of sea creatures revealed new insights about egg cells and the origins of life.

Counting the stars by Lesa Cline-Ransome
Also available in: e-audiobook | video | e-video

Before John Glenn orbited the Earth or astronauts walked on the moon, a group of dedicated female mathematicians known as "human computers" used their knowledge, pencils, adding machines, and writing paper to calculate the orbital mechanics needed to launch spacecraft. Katherine Johnson was one of these mathematicians who used trajectories and complex equations to chart the space program. For more about Katherine Johnson, look up JBIO JOHNSON.

Unsung heroes of science by Todd Kortemeier
Also available in: e-book

From fossil hunters to nuclear researchers, this book introduces remarkable individuals whose contributions to science were often overlooked. For more short biographies of scientists, browse the J920s.

Unsung heroes of technology by Todd Kortemeier

From early computer programmers to video game creators, this book introduces remarkable individuals whose contributions to technology were often overlooked.  For more information on technology, you can look up the subject heading Technology - History - Juvenile Literature.

Watch and Listen

As you work on your own inventions or science experiments, use music and video to keep your creative juices flowing.

Here comes science [electronic resource] by They Might Be Giants (Musical group)