Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Where to Read

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Libby

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Screenwise Verdict

This is the book equivalent of that cool science teacher who makes physics actually interesting. Macaulay's genius is making complex engineering principles accessible without being condescending—the woolly mammoth is genuinely funny, the illustrations are gorgeous and informative, and the scope is impressive.

The 2016 update was smart, bringing in Wi-Fi, touchscreens, and 3D printers alongside the windmills and pulleys. It's not trying to be a page-turner novel; it's a reference book that rewards curiosity. Some kids will read it cover to cover, others will pick it up whenever they wonder 'wait, how DOES that work?'

The 4.8 Amazon rating and bestseller status aren't flukes—this is a legitimately excellent educational resource that doesn't feel like homework. If your kid is the type who takes apart old electronics or asks engineering questions at dinner, this book will be catnip. If they're not naturally curious about mechanical things, it might just sit on the shelf looking impressive.

Age Fit

Best for ages 8-14, though younger kids will enjoy the illustrations and older teens/adults who are curious about engineering will still find it valuable. The sweet spot is that 10-12 year old who's endlessly curious about mechanical things.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

92

A cheerful, curiosity-driven book that uses humor (woolly mammoth mascot) to demystify technology without any inappropriate content. The tone is inviting and encouraging, making complex topics feel accessible rather than intimidating.

Imaginative

88

David Macaulay's illustrated approach connects seemingly unrelated machines (parking meters and meat grinders, jumbo jets and jackhammers) in creative ways. The visual storytelling and humorous mammoth character spark curiosity about how things work. Updated to include modern tech like touchscreens and 3D printers shows commitment to staying relevant.

Safe

98

It's a reference book about machines and technology. Zero concerning content—no violence, mature themes, or anything remotely inappropriate. Common Sense Media reviewed it positively. The only 'risk' is paper cuts.

Enriching

94

This is pure knowledge gold. Explains fundamental scientific principles, mechanical concepts, and technological developments in an engaging way. Builds genuine understanding of how the physical and digital world works. The 4.8 Amazon rating and bestseller status reflect its educational value. Includes glossary and index for deeper learning.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Answers the endless 'but HOW does it work?' questions kids ask—parking meters, rockets, touchscreens, 3D printers, you name it
David Macaulay's detailed illustrations make complex mechanical and digital concepts actually understandable (and entertaining)
Perfect for kids who take things apart, love tinkering, or just want to understand the machines around them
The woolly mammoth guide adds humor without dumbing things down—it's genuinely funny while teaching real physics and engineering
2016 revision keeps it current with digital tech, so it won't feel like a dusty encyclopedia from 1985

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What to Watch For

This is a reference book, not a story—some kids will devour it page by page, others will use it as a 'look stuff up when curious' resource
Dense with information and technical vocabulary (though there's a glossary)—younger readers might need parent help or prefer browsing the pictures first
Best for kids who actually want to know how things work, not just kids who need something to read

Conversation Starters

"What's one machine in our house you've always wondered about? Let's look it up together."
"Can you explain to me how a zipper works now? Or a toilet? (Prepare to be impressed or confused.)"
"What do you think would be the coolest thing to invent based on what you've learned?"
"Which is more interesting to you—the old-school mechanical stuff or the new digital technology?"

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