Set in the late 1800s, Emmet’s Storm (Catree, 2017) is about a quirky kid with a love of all things science, technology, engineering, and math. Though his technology is from another era, students will quickly connect with Emmet’s innovative nature and his pursuit of discovery.

In a small town, Emmet’s ideas and experiments are often ridiculed (especially when one knocks a local nun to the ground) but he continues to build his knowledge by reading and asking lots of questions. He grows his skills through practice—creating multiple iterations of each invention.

While many of Emmet’s experiments fall short, he doesn’t let failure get him down. He perseveres when others don’t believe in his ideas, including his own father. Like many students in our classrooms, Emmet’s abilities aren’t always recognized by those around him. His experiments serve a purpose in the end, as Emmet’s knowledge helps his friends and his teacher during a major storm. 

This book will inspire students to tinker, sketch, and wonder. Emmet’s sketches throughout the book show readers that new ideas can be documented, revised, and engineered through trial, error, and a little persistence. As the character builds and messes with materials, students may be inspired to do the same! Look for ways that you might incorporate experimental design, building activities, and invention research into your curriculum.

Emmet’s character engages in innovative thinking, problem-solving, data-driven research, and other STEM skills as the story progresses. As an educator who embraces STEM, STEAM, and the integration of hands-on learning into classrooms, I believe this book is a great addition to classroom or library.  

Jacie Maslyk is an educator, presenter, and the author of STEAM Makers. You can find her on Twitter @DrJacieMaslyk or on her blog, Creativity in the Making.