Awesome Innovations Inspired by Whales

Whales are the world’s largest animals. They roam the ocean in search of food, calling to each other with song. Humans nearly hunted whales to extinction. Now we learn from them, making better wind turbines and water filters. Whales may also help with medicine and climate change. They are awesome.

Gr 4-6–Young readers who are fascinated by animals will enjoy these titles that showcase examples of biomimicry. Photos depict animals and the innovations they have inspired; “Fun Facts” offer extra details. The text explains the problems researchers are trying to solve and how nature offers possible solutions. Examples include the Japanese bullet train with a nose like a kingfisher’s beak and coatings based on sharkskin that reduce bacteria on surfaces. Back matter features a recap of key concepts and a list of suggestions for those who would like to pursue a career as an engineer, architect, or inventor. VERDICT A wonderful set to use in covering engineering and design standards.--School Library Journal, November 1, 2020