Organized chronologically keeps the book flowing in a very logical order. Bodanis gives us 20 pages or so dedicated to each inventor that gives us an overview of their background and experiences leading up to their invention. Bodanis gives us a final paragraph or two for each inventor that explained their demise after their invention. Bodanis did neglect some noteworthy people who worked in electricity such as George Westinghouse and Nikola Tesla. He did, however, expose Thomas Edison as a cheat in his life, which was accurate.

Unfortunately, Bodanis didn’t feel a need to include pictures (except the one on the back inside jacket, of himself).

The book draws to a close with dozens of pages of author’s notes, suggested readings and a user-friendly glossary. This information could be useful, but I didn’t utilize it as much as your average reader might.

The book was filled with intriguing information about electricity. It would probably earn 4.5 stars (out of five) seeing as how he paid close attention to detail, but neglected a few key figures. I would recommend this book to my friends as a schoolbook, but they wouldn’t probably pick it up for fun. This book should remain a Cornerstone nominee because it has potential to become a full Cornerstone, if appreciated enough.

~ Addison B. of Bangor, ME
3rd Place 8th Grade / Read, Write & Win 2007