Written
by Laurie Wallmark; Illustrated by Katy Wu
Sterling
Children’s Book. 2019
Hedy
Lamarr (1914-2000) was an actress in Hollywood during the 1930’s and 1940’s. She
was famous, not for her intelligence, but her beauty. “People seem to think
because I have a pretty face I’m stupid…I have to work twice as hard as anyone
else to convince people I have something resembling a brain.” Though acting was fun, and a nifty way to
earn a living, Hedy’s passion was science and engineering. She loved inventing
things.
Wallmark
presents to readers a glimpse of a very smart woman whose brain overflowed with
ideas. Wu’s illustrations, rendered digitally, show many of Lamarr’s ideas – “An accordion-fold pocket on tissue boxes; glow-in-the-dark dog collar;
a device with a few steps and handles to help people get in and out of the
bathtub" –displayed all over the wall of her parlor.
The story hones in on Lamarr’s
invention called “frequency hopping.”
Though kept secret for over forty years, this one invention now
allows us to use this technology in our most popular electronic devices. This technology is what helps keep cell
phone calls and texts private. “it’s the trick that allows secure wireless
communications between computers and the Internet.”
Back
matter includes a timeline, an author’s note, selected bibliography, additional
reading, and a listing of Hedy Lamarr’s films.
Add this
to the growing list of wonderful picture book biographies celebrating the many
accomplishments of women. It’s about time.
I borrowed a copy of this book from my local public library to write this review.
Love Laurie's books! Looking forward to this one. Sounds fascinating!
ReplyDeleteHi Maria - Sad that Hedy Lamarr never got financial gain from her invention since we are so dependent on it now.
DeleteWonderful that women's accomplishments, including Hedy Lamarr's, are finally coming to light after being ignored for so long. This book looks fascinating. Thanks for the review.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comment, Linda.
DeleteYes! I have this book. It's fantastic!
ReplyDeleteHi Jilanne - Thanks for your comment.
Delete