Describes the most important inventions from the Stone Age to the beginning of the twenty-first century. Organization is by historical periods.

"What's the Big Idea?" explores the story of inventions through the ages and explains how ideas and technology from different countries and times are built on and developed - that inventions don't just 'happen'. Stunningly illustrated throughout, and with a clear text, it covers many important inventions, from the first stone axe to genetic engineering and the internet - not forgetting the 2,400,000 years in between! The lives of famous and not-so-famous inventors are described. Men and women from different cultural backgrounds, whose major contributions have been overlooked in the past, are included. A time line of events puts inventions in their historical context, showing how wars and trade push ideas forward. The book features a clear, concise text, full-colour illustrations and humorous drawings, which will engage even reluctant readers. A complete glossary and index make this title ideal for home and school. "What's the Big Idea?" covers several of the periods studied under Key Stage 2 of the History curriculum, including the major ancient civilisations, the Tudors, the Victorians and modern Britain.
It is an ideal text for shared and guided reading for Key Stage 2 pupils within the framework of the National Literacy Strategy. It helps achieve the goals of the Scottish Standard Curriculum 5-14, promoting 'positive attitudes to learning', 'knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the world' and 'skills in literacy'.