Whose Bright Idea Was It?: True Stories of Invention

Christy Conte is a member of the Parents Advisory Committee at the
YMCA’s Parent and Child Enrichment Centre, and a journalist.

Anyone remotely interested in the creative process will enjoy this book.
It gives us the inside story on hundreds of inventions, from flush
toilets to Nike running shoes. The inventions are categorized under
fairly cohesive sections such as Home Helpers, Toys, Thrills and Spills,
and Games and Puzzles. Interspersed throughout are interesting
scientific facts, simple illustrations, and famous quotations on the
theme of invention. A comprehensive index and tradename guide are also
included.

The book describes the accidents, inspirations, and circumstances that
led to the creation of some common products. Kraft Dinner, for example,
was the brainchild of a dejected salesman stuck with cases of an
unpopular cheese powder mix. He combined the powder with boxes of
macaroni and, presto, a classic was born. A tardy employee left soap
stirring in a vat too long and unwittingly created Ivory, the first
floating soap. More often than not, inventions have arisen out of dumb
luck and human curiosity, not genius.

Technology buffs will be disappointed by the fairly simple descriptions
and the absence of detailed renderings. However, young people looking
for inspiration should enjoy this book, as should cottagers and
travelers in search of an entertaining read. Recommended.