About the Book

The author of "The Book of Totally Irresponsible Science" examines some of the most infamous and dangerous disasters in the history of engineering, from the Leaning Tower of Pisa to Boston's Great Molasses Flood of 1919. Includes 33 adrenaline-pumping physics experiments for daring young scientists. Illustrations.

Book Synopsis

It's hands-on science with a capital "E"--for engineering.

Beginning with the toppling of the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, to the destructive, laserlike sunbeams bouncing off London's infamous "Fryscraper" in 2013, here is an illustrated tour of the greatest engineering disasters in history, from the bestselling author of The Book of Totally Irresponsible Science.

Each engineering disaster includes a simple, exciting experiment or two using everyday household items to explain the underlying science and put learning into action. Understand the Titanic's demise by sinking an ice-cube-tray ocean liner in the bathtub. Stomp on a tube of toothpaste to demonstrate what happens to non-Newtonian fluids under pressure--and how a ruptured tank sent a tsunami of molasses through the streets of Boston in 1919.

From why the Leaning Tower of Pisa leans to the fatal design flaw in the Sherman tank, here's a book of science at its most riveting.

Review Quotes

"A new collection from an old hand at designing intriguing STEM activities that will entertain as well as enlighten."--Kirkus Reviews

"With ever-advancing technology present in the lives of readers, this text provides the chance for aspiring architects, engineers, and other problem solvers to understand past mistakes before building future wonders." --School Library Journal

About the Author

Sean Connolly has written more than 50 books aimed at children and adults, including The Book of Totally Irresponsible Science and The Book of Wildly Spectacular Sports Science. As the father of three he's ideally suited to explain pitfalls and solutions to these tricky questions.