Books with author Louise Spilsbury

Without Johann Gutenberg, the way we read, write, and distribute printed information would be completely different. Readers will take a close look at the life of the man who invented the printing press, an invention that revolutionized publishing. This book takes readers through Gutenbergs early years as a goldsmith, and how they led to his invention of a moveable type machine. Engaging and information-rich text is paired with vivid photographs and a timeline to make this a dynamic read, one that supports both STEM and history curricula in an accessible way.

The Mound Builders were some of the most advanced Native peoples to be encountered by European explorers. They made their homes in the part of North America along what is now known as the Mississippi River. Their complex, ancient culture is very impressive: the Mound Builders are credited with being the first group of people to rely on farming as a major source of food. This book features photographs of cool artifacts and critical thinking questions to engage readers as they draw their own conclusions while learning about the Mound Builders.

The strange bodies animals have developed over time are endlessly fascinating. The hammerhead sharks odd head may look strange, but it helps the shark see all around itself. The ugly face of the puss moth caterpillar helps keep predators away, and the scorpions deadly tail can do some damage despite how bizarre it may look. Many questions readers may have about some of the most extreme animal anatomy can be answered in this volume, which includes up-close photographs of some pretty dangerous animals as well as thorough explanations of why they look the way they do.

Swimming is a fun but dangerous activity. Lifeguards help us stay safe while having fun, thanks to their special life-saving skills and first-aid training. Readers learn about these community heroes and explore a typical day in the life and the requirements needed to perform this job. The text explores lifeguarding equipment, how lifeguards respond in an emergency, and the characteristics a person must have to be good at this job. Readers are encouraged to think about if this career is right for them, and are provided with the information needed to pursue lifeguarding in the future. Age-appropriate language, colorful photos, fact boxes, sidebars, and infographics make it fun to learn about this exciting career.

Everything about a sea lions body developed to make it a better hunter. Its aerodynamic shape, strong flippers, and ability to close its nostrils to remain underwater longer all contribute to this deep-sea predator. What are they hunting for? A lobster dinner! With detailed examples and full-color photographs, this volume takes on an important curriculum conceptfood chainsin an engaging, fun way. Readers discover some of the violent, strange, and extraordinary eating of animals in habitats all around the world.