SERIES MADE SIMPLE

Barbie Developer: Ruth Handler

by Lee SLATER
9781624039744. ea vol: 32p. (Toy Trailblazers). chron. diag. glossary. index. maps. photos. ABDO. 2016. lib. ed. $18.95. ebk. $31.95.
COPY ISBN
Gr 4–6—Students will savor these informative and fast-paced titles on the fascinating, sometimes quirky histories behind the visionary inventors of popular toys. Surprisingly, Crayola and LEGO's wordy descriptions of product production include only one small stock color photo each, whereas the other titles explain their methods creatively, with plenty of explanatory colored graphics. Brief chapters keep reading pace brisk. "Fun Facts" sidebars offer entertaining, educational bits of trivia and striking covers, colored banners, and numerous high-quality black-and-white and color photos of the products appropriately enliven the playful appearance.
VERDICT These slim volumes should prove as popular as their namesakes in public and school libraries. Use in units on business/economics, inventors, and popular culture.
Each of these engaging biographies introduces readers to the creator(s) of a popular classic kids' product. The texts are generally positive (and overuse exclamation points) but don't ignore difficulties and hardship, both personal and business-related. Captioned photos, archival reproductions, and "Fun Fact" boxes liven up the pages. The topics have ready-made kid-appeal; readers will glean insight into product development and the challenges of running a business. Timeline. Glos., ind. Review covers these Checkerboard Library: Toy Trailblazers titles: Barbie Developer Ruth Handler, Board Game Builder Milton Bradley, Crayola Creators Edward Binney and C. Harold Smith, Lego Manufacturers the Kristiansen Family, Play-Doh Pioneer Joseph McVicker, and Slinky Innovators The James Family.
Reviewed by Staff , Apr 01, 2016

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