Whoosh!
Sale price
$759
Picture Book · Ages 7–10 · 2016 · Est. 10 min read-aloud

Whoosh!

Written by Chris Barton · Illustrated by Don Tate

Discover how a cooling system mishap led to the iconic Super Soaker.

5.2/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 2,296 ratings
32 pages· 1,274 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud· 820L
$7.99Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Lonnie Johnson, a NASA engineer with a passion for rockets and robots, stumbles upon a groundbreaking invention while working on a cooling system. This accidental creation becomes the beloved Super Soaker, a toy that makes waves worldwide. Dive into Lonnie's journey of creativity and persistence, from a childhood filled with inventive curiosity to engineering triumphs. How did a simple mistake lead to one of the most popular toys ever? Explore the story of innovation and the unexpected paths it can take.

From the publisher

A cool idea with a big splash You know the Super Soaker. It’s one of top twenty toys of all time. And it was invented entirely by accident. Trying to create a new cooling system for refrigerators and air conditioners, impressive inventor Lonnie Johnson instead created the mechanics for the iconic toy. A love for rockets, robots, inventions, and a mind for creativity began early in Lonnie Johnson’s life. Growing up in a house full of brothers and sisters, persistence and a passion for problem solving became the cornerstone for a career as an engineer and his work with NASA. But it is his invention of the Super Soaker water gun that has made his most memorable splash with kids and adults.

At a glance
Format
Pages
32
Words
1,274
Reading age
7–10
Audience
Picture
Lexile
820L
What readers & critics say

Reviews

5.2

out of 7

5.8

I really liked reading about the persistence of Lonnie Johnson. He did major things like help scientist at NASA and also what might be named less significant inventions like the super soaker water gun for children to play with.

Mom of Boys

Trusted reviewer

The author

More from Chris Barton

Explore Chris's bookshelf
The illustrator

More from Don Tate

Explore Don's bookshelf
Poet
Sale price
$899

Poet

Ages 6–10 · 2015
Swish!
Sale price
$1799

Swish!

Ages 4–8 · 2020
Your next read

Books that feel like this one

See all similar books
Nano
Sale price
$1799

Nano

Ages 5–9 · 2021
Manfish
Sale price
$1699

Manfish

Ages 6–9 · 2008
The fine print

Book details

Reading levels
ATOS
4.7
F&P level
~S
AR points
0.5
AR interest level
LG
AR quiz
181421
Publication
Published
May 7, 2019
First published
May 3, 2016
Publisher
Charlesbridge
Edition
Language
English
Type
Picture Book
Text details
Display type set in Space Toaster by Chank. Text type set in ITC Goudy Sans by Bitstream Inc.
Illustration details
Illustrations created digitally using Manga Studio.
Identifiers
ISBN
9781580892988

Surprise a reader with their next favorite book.

Spotted a mistake or something missing? Improve this page.

Are you the author or illustrator? Claim your book.

Top contributors: Sierra Dertinger · Mr. Staccato · The Goodfather