Get ready to light up the world with Lewis Latimer in this exciting middle grade nonfiction biography. Perfect for fans of the Who Was and Little Leaders series, the books in the VIP series tell the true—and amazing—stories of some of history's greatest trailblazers. Meet the VERY IMPORTANT PEOPLE who changed the world!

Lewis Latimer was one of the greatest inventors of his time. He was also an engineer who transformed the lightbulb at Thomas Edison’s company. And he was a gifted artist, too! Experience all the exciting moments in Lewis Latimer’s thrilling life in this exciting biography, packed with two-color illustrations and fun facts, like who invented the Super Soaker!

Short and engaging chapters are interspersed with special lists and other information made to order to engage kids, whether they're already biography fans or "have to" write a report for school. Extras include a timeline, a bibliography, and a hall of fame of other successful African American inventors.

The VIP series features inspiring adventures and fun facts about some of history's greatest trailblazers—smart, tough, persevering innovators who will inspire today's kids. Featuring underappreciated historical figures and groups, with a focus on leaders in science and technology, the nonfiction biographies in the VIP series are fun and engaging. Just looking at the cover will make kids want to learn more about these VIPs, and once they dive in they will zoom through stories that read like adventures.

Each book in the VIP series allows your middle grader to experience all the exciting moments in some very important but lesser known lives. These biographies for kids age 9-12 include: VIP: Dr. Mae Jemison: Brave Rocketeer: Engineering Wizard; VIP: Mahalia Jackson: Freedom's Voice; and VIP: Lydia Darragh: Unexpected Spy.

Go beyond the lightbulb and discover the full, inspiring story of an American trailblazer:

Son of Escaped Slaves: Learn how Lewis Latimer’s parents made a daring escape from slavery to ensure their children would be born free.
Civil War Hero: At just sixteen, Lewis joined the Union Navy to fight for freedom, beginning a lifetime of perseverance against the odds.
Working with Famous Inventors: Explore Latimer’s crucial work alongside Alexander Graham Bell on the telephone and with Thomas Edison’s team to perfect the lightbulb.
Inspiring STEM Story: See how a self-taught draftsman and gifted artist became a pioneering electrical engineer, patent holder, and civil rights advocate.
Perfect for School Reports: Packed with illustrations, fun facts, a timeline, and a bibliography, this biography makes learning about American history an adventure.

VIP: Lewis Latimer

VIP: Lewis Latimer