Save the Crash Test Dummies
Written by Jennifer Swanson; Illustrated by Temika Grooms
Peachtree. 2019
Grades 3-8
Coming out in October, 2019
The cars we drive today have a lot of safety features, such as bumpers, seat belts, and air bags. Just how did we come up with them? This entertaining informational book traces the failures (a cowcatcher that scooped up humans) and successes (seat belts) of the auto safety inventions that have been developed throughout history and how crash-test dummies made it all possible.
The writing is entertaining, a mixture of history and science. The narrative is peppered with black & white photographs, diagrams, and little side bars with more detailed information.
I found it interesting that before 1949, scientists used cadavers to obtain crash data. “While it might seem a little gruesome, cadavers provided valuable information to car manufacturers.” As technology improved after World War II, scientists then invented the first crash-test dummy, anthropomorphic test devices (ATD). The new model had a more fully formed body that helped provide the data needed for new safety features.
The book explores the newer technology like the rearview camera, perfect for when you are backing up and how scientists are working hard to perfect self-driving cars. All in the hopes of reducing or eliminating traffic accidents.
Back matter includes notes, photo credits, and index.
A fun read. Perfect for students interested in cars.
I used an Advanced Readers Copy of this book sent to me by the publisher to write this review.
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