Description
In 1873, at the age of 21, Jan Ernst Matzeliger immigrated to America, having left all that was familiar behind in South America. He arrived with hopes and dreams of a bright future in this new country. Though Jan had no formal training, he was highly skillful with tools and machinery, having worked in his father’s mechanic shops. But no one wanted to hire a Black immigrant who didn’t speak English. Yet Jan didn’t give up. He finally got a job at a shoe factory. As Jan learned the process and craft of shoemaking, he envisioned a new machine, a lasting machine, that would help produce more shoes more efficiently. People scoffed at Jan’s idea, telling him it wasn’t possible. But he wasn’t deterred. Despite many obstacles, after years of planning, drawing, and experimenting, Jan is finally ready to demonstrate his lasting machine. And his invention will change the shoe industry forever.
The little-known story of Jan Matzeliger and his machine comes to life for young readers.
Kirkus
Jan Matzeliger’s name might not be on everyone’s lips, but it should be on everyone’s feet…Skill and persistence lead to STEM success against historical odds in this brief and attractive biography.
Booklist
…this cheery historical episode pays tribute to an African American tinkerer who revolutionized the shoe-manufacturing industry.
Details
Author: |
Shana Keller |
Interest Level Low: |
Age 6 |
Interest Level High: |
Age 9 |
Reading Level: |
Age 7 |
Lexile Level Low: |
820L |
Lexile Level High: |
820L |
Guided Reading Level Low: |
R |
Guided Reading Level High: |
R |
Language: |
English |
Copyright: |
2024 |
Teaching Guide: |
No |
Set: |
No |
Award Winner: |
No |
Number of Pages: |
40 Per Title |
Binding Type: |
Hardcover |
