Who Did It First?: 50 Scientists, Artists, and Mathematicians Who Revolutionized the World (Who Did It First?)

Each entry features a motivational quote or two, some of which occupy entire pages of their own, and, from Kuhwald, a stylized but easily recognizable portrait placed in an evocative setting.... This broad take on “firsts” is unusually rich in lesser-known figures and feats.

Gr 3-6-Arranged in chronological order, these 50 historical and contemporary figures include scientists, mathematicians, artists, and engineers who come from a wide range of ethnic and cultural backgrounds. A majority of the people have a page-long description of their life and work, along with a highlighted quote, but some only receive a paragraph. There are a significant number of lesser-known innovators (Alexa Canady, the first female African-American neurosurgeon), along with familiar faces like Isaac Newton and Ada Lovelace. The real highlight of this book, however, is the artwork; Kuhwald's digitally-painted portraits depict these trailblazers in vibrant color, surrounded by settings and patterns that reflect each person's work and personality. VERDICT Although this book will not provide adequate details for a school report, it may motivate some readers to dig deeper into the lives of many inspirational pioneers.-Sarah Reid, Four County Library System, NY