Awesome Minds

April 25, 2016
Hagar and Garrison explain the Lego backstory to readers who can’t envision a time before the interlocking bricks. The beloved toys were the brainchild of a Danish carpenter, Ole Kirk Christiansen, who developed the idea with the help of his son, Godtfred. Hagar describes Christiansen’s early attempts to create a toy that would sell big; he even rode the wave of the yo-yo’s popularity, which taught him, “Don’t worry about what’s popular. Instead, make good toys that give kids new ways to play.” As the manufacturing of plastic expanded, Christiansen bought an injection-molding machine for his burgeoning toy company in 1947 and began making prototypes of the now-iconic plastic bricks. Hagar’s conversational narration and an early reader–esque format, augmented by sidebars and Garrison’s efficient cartooning, should make the book particularly appealing to newly independent readers—and Lego devotees, of course. Ages 7–12.

April 1, 2016

Gr 2-5-With fascinating trivia, vibrant cartoonlike illustrations, and a format similar to that of an easy reader, this title has the potential (like LEGOs themselves) to appeal to a variety of ages. Hagar writes in a clear and accessible tone, covering a wide range of LEGO history, from creator Ole Kirk's childhood to present-day initiatives to reduce the use of plastic. This slim volume contains an abundance of information, although the overcrowded layout might distract younger readers (with text, illustrations, sidebars, and diagrams often appearing on a single spread). Sidebars provide historical comparisons, occasionally mentioning complex topics such as friction and carbon footprint (the term carbon footprint is defined in the back glossary, but friction is not). The variation in skill level makes this offering most suitable for confident readers. VERDICT While the length and illustrations might attract young readers, this selection is best for upper elementary readers with an interest in architecture, inventors, and LEGO history. A sound purchase for most libraries.-Laura Lintz, Henrietta Public Library, Rochester, NY

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