Review by Booklist Review
Defining biomimicry as a way of thinking that uses nature as a model for developing ideas, processes and technologies, this large-format book presents applications already in use as well as the potential for future inventions inspired by the natural world. Several colorful, attractively textured illustrations appear on each double-page spread. Some one-page chapters simply introduce an area with potential for innovation, such as Magic materials or Medical marvels. Longer (two- or three-page) chapters, such as Smart structures and Pollution-free power, combine an introduction with a series of specific ideas that have been or could be developed for practical use. Each idea is discussed in a single paragraph, and the book's lack of source notes makes it difficult for readers to follow up on concepts that intrigue them. Still, few books are available on this topic, which could be useful for classroom units and projects on inventions.--Phelan, Carolyn Copyright 2010 Booklist
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 5-7-Nature has been inspiring scientists for a long time-think Newton and that apple. However, it has been an inspiration in purely practical matters as well-think of Velcro, of camouflage, of solar cells, of pottery. Then add the maybes, the possibles, the probables, as Lee has done in this slim volume. The readable text is broken down into specific areas such as "Medical Marvels" and "Dealing with the Tough Stuff," consisting of an overview and a series of examples already in use or dreams on a design board. The term "biomimicry" may not be familiar to all, but the science has been around for some time, and Lee's discussion provides food for thought. Thompson's elegant acrylic-on-canvas illustrations, softly realistic in execution, give the book a goodly measure of eye appeal. Softer in approach and appearance than Phil Gates's Nature Got There First (Kingfisher 2010), this book will be of interest not only to budding scientists and science fair hopefuls, but also to those who like a splash of art with their science.-Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY (c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
From Velcro fastenings to man-made marshes for wastewater processing, many modern innovations have sprung from observation and imitation of the natural world.In topically organized double-page spreads, Lee describes shapes and structures, materials and designs, as well as systems for exploration, communication, rescue and delivery. Each spread offers a general introduction to its subject, set on a painted background, usually a natural scene. The canvas base of these acrylic paintings provides an interesting texture. Three or four specific examples, each with illustrative vignettes, follow or sometimes precede the general explanation. These topics range widely and include medical marvels, new power sources, biological computers and robots. Although this has the shape and look of a picture book, the relatively extensive text is clearly aimed at upper-elementary-school readers. It offers fewer specific examples than Phil Gates' Nature Got There First (2010), but its explanations are clearer and it includes a strong ecological message: The most important natural model is the sustainable ecosystem. Through biomimicry, humans can learn to live in balance on the Earth as well. The author provides no sources or suggestions for further exploration, though her short descriptions are sure to lead readers to want to know more.An intriguing collection of invention, engineering and scientific advances and potential developments for readers who like to know a little bit about a lot of things. (glossary, index) (Nonfiction. 9-12) ]] Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
