The Great Stink

By Colleen Paeff, Nancy Carpenter (Illustrator)

An engineer battles London's deadly pollution with an innovative sewer system. Can he save the city from cholera's grip?

4.3/5 Goodreads · 925 ratings

40 pages· 1,576 words· Est. 13 min read-aloud

$17.99Save 7%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

In 1858, London's River Thames reeks of filth, spreading deadly cholera. Engineer Joseph Bazalgette envisions a revolutionary sewer system to cleanse the city and save lives. As he battles the stench and skepticism, can his grand design transform London into a healthier place? This engaging tale of innovation and determination reveals how one man's vision changed the course of history, offering insights into preventing pollution today. Dive into a story where engineering meets heroism, and discover how a single idea can impact generations.

From the publisher

Discover the true story about the determined engineer who fixed London’s pollution problem in this funny, accessible nonfiction picture book featuring engaging art from the illustrator of Queen Victoria’s Bathing Machine. It’s the summer of 1858, and London’s River Thames STINKS. What is creating this revolting smell? The answer is gross: the river is full of poop. But the smell isn’t the worst problem. Every few years, cholera breaks out, and thousands of people die. Could there be a connection between the foul water and the deadly disease? One engineer dreams of making London a cleaner, healthier place. His name is Joseph Bazalgette. His grand plan to create a new sewer system to clean the river is an engineering marvel. And his sewers will save lives. Nothing stinky about that. With tips for how to prevent pollution today, this fascinating look at science, history, and what one person can do to create change will impress and astound readers who want to help make their planet a cleaner, happier place to live.

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