How Was That Built?: The Stories Behind Awesome Structures

by Roma Agrawal (Author) Katie Hickey (Illustrator)

How Was That Built?: The Stories Behind Awesome Structures
Reading Level: 4th − 5th Grade

This striking book explains the feats of engineering behind the world's most impressive architectural marvels. From skyscrapers that reach astonishing heights to bridges that span deep and wide rivers, the world is filled with awe-inspiring structures. But how do they work?

Meet the extraordinary people who challenged our beliefs about what's possible, pioneering remarkable inventions that helped build the Brooklyn Bridge in the US, the Pantheon in Italy, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the Shard in England and the Sapporo Dome in Japan.

Discover the ingenious methods engineers have come up with to enable us to build underground, underwater, on ice, and even in space. With text written by award-winning structural engineer Roma Agrawal and detailed full-color illustrations by Katie Hickey, this book provides unique and illuminating perspectives of the world's most incredible constructions.

How Was That Built? is a perfect gift for curious kids who want to learn more about construction, architecture, science, technology, and the way things work. This children's picture book also serves as a fascinating companion to the author's adult nonfiction book Built:

The Hidden Stories Behind our Structures, winner of the AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books.

Select format:
Hardcover
$23.99

ALA/Booklist

Starred Review
A useful, intriguing, and unusually beautiful addition to the engineering shelves.

Kirkus

A particularly engaging survey, both for its variety and its unusually expert perspectives.

Publishers Weekly

"Once you read this book, you'll see the world through different eyes--the eyes of an engineer," promises this in-depth introduction to structural engineering. Chapters each examine a construction challenge, such as "how to build tall," "strong," or "underground." Anchoring the discussion are detailed case studies of emblematic engineering marvels such as the Brooklyn Bridge, London's sewers, and Antarctica's Halley VI research station. Throughout, overviews summarize topics such as "advances in concrete" and "ancient water engineering." Agrawal packs a lot in, making the read feel dense, but creative comparisons and DIY experiments help clarify engineering principles. Hickey's pencil-textured illustrations animate edifices and scenes of construction, emphasizing ingenuity. A glossary and an engineers' gallery enhance the book's appeal as a reference for budding builders. Ages 6-9. (Aug.)

Copyright 2022 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Review quotes

Perfect for browsing by young readers with an interest in engineering or architecture. - WSJ

Roma Agrawal

Roma Agrawal is a structural engineer who builds big. From footbridges and sculptures, to train stations and skyscrapers, she has left an indelible mark on London's landscape. She is a tireless promoter of engineering and technical careers to young people, particularly under-represented groups such as women. She has advised policymakers and governments on science education and has given talks to thousands around the world at universities, schools and organizations, including two for TEDx. Roma has been awarded international awards for her technical prowess and success in promoting the profession, including the prestigious Royal Academy of Engineering's Rooke Award. She was awarded an MBE for services to Engineering in 2018. Her best-selling adult title, Built: The Hidden Stories Behind Our Structures, was described by The Sunday Times as 'A fascinating celebration of the impact that structural engineering has on all our lives...[an] eye-opening book.'

Website: romatheengineer.com Twitter: @RomaTheEngineer

Katie Hickey studied at Falmouth University and since graduation has created artwork for magazines, greetings cards and books. Katie has illustrated several books for children and enjoys combining narrative and information in her work. Having grown up in Cornwall, and also in the Middle East, she takes inspiration from her travels and surroundings to create characterful and atmospheric images. Katie lives with her family and dogs in the countryside just outside London.

Instagram: @katiehickeyillustration Twitter: @katiehickey195

Classification
Non-fiction
ISBN-13
9781547609291
Lexile Measure
-
Guided Reading Level
-
Publisher
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Publication date
August 16, 2022
Series
-
BISAC categories
JNF061010 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Technology | Inventions
JNF005000 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Architecture
JNF051120 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Technology | How Things Work/Are Made
Library of Congress categories
Building
Structural engineering

Subscribe to our delicious e-newsletter!