Not surprisingly picture books about inventors are so varied and interesting. I hope to read more, but here are four to start.

Young Thomas Edison by Michael Dooling (Holiday House, 2005)

This is a topnotch biographical picture book. Michael Dooling tells the story of Thomas Edison’s life (1847-1931), clearly conveying his determination despite hardships like hearing loss, the death of his mother, and a fire breaking out in the laboratory he had set up in a train baggage car. His unflagging work ethic and entrepreneurship are inspiring. The illustrations are excellent oil paintings. The book ends with pictures and descriptions of ten inventions, an author’s note, selected bibliography, and suggested websites. Recommended for ages 8 to 10.

Earmuffs for Everyone: How Chester Greenwood Became Known as the Inventor of Earmuffs by Meghan McCarthy (Simon & Schuster, 2015)

Earmuffs for Everyone! is a bit different than other biographies because it seeks to show how Chester Greenwood (1858-1937) became known as the inventor of earmuffs even though he was not the first to invent them. “And that’s how the story goes. Chester may not have created the original earmuff… but he made it better. Sometimes that’s what makes all the difference.” This book not only describes Greenwood’s life and legacy, but explains what patents are with various examples. You can learn more in the author’s notes, including how to file your own patent. There are also two photographs and a bibliography. To me, the main downside of this books is the cartoonish illustration style. Recommended for ages 6 to 9.

Six Dots: A Story of Young Louis Braille by Jen Bryant, illustrated by Boris Kulikov (Alfred A. Knopf, 2016)

Told in the first person, Six Dots explores what it was like to be Louis Braille (1809-1852), who lost his eyesight after an accident as a young child and worked tirelessly to invent a system of reading and writing for the blind at the age of fifteen! The story is well told, including dialogue and French phrases, with fitting illustrations. There’s a pronunciation guide, author’s note, FAQs, and resources for learning more about Louis Braille and using braille. Recommended for ages 6 to 10.

John Deere, That’s Who! by Tracy Nelson Maurer, illustrated by Tim Zeltner (Henry Holt & Company, 2017)

What do you know about John Deere (1804-1886), the man behind the iconic green and yellow logo? I didn’t know anything before I read this picture book and learned that he lived before tractors were invented. He was a blacksmith who set himself to building a better plow, which made farming easier and more efficient, changing America forever. I loved the antique folksy illustrations. The book is complete with glossary, biographical info, and bibliography. Recommended for ages 7 to 10.