In this entry in the new Getting to Know the World’s Greatest Inventors and Scientists series, Venezia employs the same mix of approachable facts and irreverent drawings that has made his previous Getting to Know series about composers, artists, and U.S. presidents such long-standing favorites among elementary students and teachers. Once again, the humor and silly scenarios depicted in the cartoon drawings will draw readers back to the smooth, straightforward language. Working chronologically through Edison’s life, Venezia includes anecdotes that humanize his subject: Edison, who had a lively sense of humor and loved practical jokes, rigged electrical wires up to a workplace water cooler so that it emitted small shocks when used, for example. As in the previous series, this includes a handsome selection of visuals, in addition to Venezia’s drawings, and students will appreciate the many archival photos of Edison throughout his life, along with his amazing inventions. A glossary and index close this fine addition to Venezia’s impressive collection of high-interest biographies for youth. Grades 2-4. --Gillian Engberg
