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English Cymraeg

The World’s First Rollercoaster and Other Amazing Inventions

by Mike Barfield, illustrated by Franziska Höllbacher

Interest age: 7 to 11
Reading age: 8+

Published by Templar Books, 2024

  • Comic books
  • Funny
  • Non-fiction

About this book

Ever considered staying the night inside a giant, concrete elephant? Been curious about the scientist who invented the Super Soaker and the Nerf gun? Wondered how the oldest pair of socks in the world were made?

Well, step into Mike Barfield’s crazy world to find out the thrilling stories behind some of humanity's most ground-breaking inventions. 

This brilliantly bright and engaging non-fiction text uses a comic strip format to tell the historical stories behind pivotal human inventions. Barfield’s humour and Höllbacher’s comedic illustrations make this informative book feel much more like a rollercoaster ride than an ordinary science lesson. 

Readers will love discovering the surprising origins of well-known inventions, the interesting directions of future technologies, and the hilarious bonus facts that are often hard to believe!

A great introduction to and motivation for STEM subjects, this book will be sure to inspire innovation and creativity for the next generation of inventors.

About the author

Mike Barfield is a writer, poet, performer and award-winning cartoonist. He originally trained as a scientist before switching to writing jokes for all ages. Mike has worked in TV, radio, books, newspapers and magazines – as well as in schools, libraries, museums, and science festivals across the country. While performing to schools and festivals, he can often be found dressed as a giant housefly.

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