Papa's Mechanical Fish

Papa's Mechanical Fish is an inventive picture book inspired by the true story of inventor Lodner Phillips. Papa is always tinkering, but nothing quite works-until a fishing trip with his family sparks a big idea: What if he could build a machine that lets them explore under the water like a real fish?

Educational Benefits:

• Introduces basic engineering and invention concepts.
• Celebrates persistence, creativity, and family support.
• Inspires STEM exploration and imaginative problem-solving.
• Based on real historical figures-great for biographical literacy.

Classroom Ideas:

• Build simple inventions using recycled materials in a STEM challenge.
• Discuss the invention process: ideas, failures, redesigns.
• Create underwater-themed art or design your own submarine.
• Explore historical inventors and inventions as a research project.

Information:

• Ages: 5-7 years
• Based on inventor Lodner Phillips
• Genre: Picture Book / STEM / Historical Inspiration
• Dimensions: 25.6 x 26.3 x 1.0 cm | Format: Hardcover