Mimic Makers

Featuring ten inventions inspired by nature, this book explores how scientists, architects, and engineers can find innovative solutions right there, in the world around them. For example, the shape of the kingfisher’s beak helped to design a quieter, speed-busting Japanese train, and the tiny Namibian beetle, a way to collect drinking water in the desert. At a time when people are increasingly disconnected from nature and our planet is endangered, these true stories are a fantastic and humbling reminder of how clever nature really is and what we can gain if we stop to look, listen and innovate. 

I purchased this book for my own little inventor—my second-grade granddaughter. She pores over the pages of this book soaking in the stories of the biomimicry inventors who solved problems by observing the natural world. Kristen Nordstrom’s stories encourage her to wonder. Her favorite invention stories come from activities she pursues herself outside—watching birds and chasing propeller maple seeds. I particularly like the resources and suggestions for how children can be mimic makers in the book. Mimic makers are our hope for finding solutions to problems.