The Inventors of LEGO(R) Toys (Awesome Minds)

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

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

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. (Apr.)

Erin Hagar documents the story of the Lego company from its modest beginnings with young Ole Kirk, a shepherd wood carver, who went on to begin his business in carpentry and adjust to toy making following the Great Depression (and several other depressing events in his personal life, including a devastating fire and the loss of his wife and the mother to his four boys). The Lego Company's most well-known creation, the Lego brick, was named the "toy of the century" in 2000. Each event between demonstrates the creativity and problem solving that made the Lego company (and this book) a global success.

Paige Garrison includes blueprints for both factory buildings and the bricks themselves and the visual of Lego bricks wrapping around the world is pretty impressive. The design of the book itself is blocky, utilizing the primary colors so well-known in the Lego system. I'd love to say that I think young readers will love this book, but I can do better. I know it. Because in my library, they already do! A fifth grade student began research in late November for an informational writing piece on the inventors of Lego and his teacher emailed me to see if we might be able to point him in the right direction. Since I had a copy from the publisher, I was able to save the day and deliver just what he needed. This book flew off the shelves before I could even get it on one. Readers and builders young and old will love this story of ingenuity and cutting-edge thinking. —Gary Anderson, writing instructor and kidlit blogger