Ticktock Banneker's Clock

July 15, 2016
An African-American inventor of the 18th-century designs and builds a new-style clock. A young Benjamin Banneker is fascinated by mechanical things. After taking apart a borrowed pocket watch, he studies all the parts and how they work. Fascinated, he is determined to build a big clock and spends the next two years doing just that. Keller does a good job detailing the process: what works and what does not. Banneker sketches and designs and even realizes that he can age the wood he is using in the same manner that his family cures tobacco on their Maryland farm. After much trial and error and scientific thought, Banneker succeeds. Unfortunately, it is only in the author's note that readers learn that Banneker was born a free black in 1731. Even in a title stressing his inventive genius, his uncommon free status should warrant explicit mention and explanation within the text. Gardner's soft-toned watercolor illustrations follow the seasonal changes in Maryland while also depicting Banneker's many other talents, such as playing the flute. It is a peaceful, idyllic existence in a quiet and pleasant book. Of greater use in STEM units than in American history studies. (Picture book/biography. 5-8)

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September 1, 2016

K-Gr 2-This cheerfully illustrated volume centers on Benjamin Banneker's invention of a striking clock. The story begins just as Banneker (1731-1806) has finished his farm chores for the day. He decides to take a moment to study a pocket watch lent to him by a friend. Inspired by the tiny, dazzling machine, he imagines a much larger version, one that chimes. Readers watch him over a number of seasons as he works toward completing his invention. The rich illustrations highlight Banneker's spirit and the beauty of his farm. (A faithful hound dog appears on nearly every page.) This book offers a glimpse into the brilliant mind and hard work of an engineer. An author's note provides more information on his life. VERDICT A concise introduction to Banneker and a welcome addition to any picture book biography collection.-Megan Kilgallen, Packer Collegiate Institute, Brooklyn

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