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The Science Museum and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers have partnered on a fascinating and accessible guide to the history of discovery and invention in the form of a “wallbook” that unfolds to a width of more than 2m.
This format was developed by Christopher Lloyd, chief executive of What on Earth Publishing and a former journalist at The Sunday Times, to tell the stories of natural history, sport – and now science and engineering. His folded wallbooks open out to reveal a 2.3m-long colourful and detailed timeline.
“I asked myself: how can you engage young people’s minds in a giant story, without them having to read a giant book?” said Lloyd. He thought of the ways in which stories were told in the past, from cave paintings and friezes to the Bayeux Tapestry, and even stained-glass windows. “These traditional narrative methods are an accessible way of organising information. This format also provides enough detail for parents and grandparents to find their level of interaction. It’s a ‘learning together’ experience,” he said.
The latest wallbook is the product of Lloyd’s research, stylish illustrations by Andy Forshaw, and the input of a curator from the Science Museum. Stephen Tetlow, chief executive of the IMechE, was also consulted, and explained to the team how engineering has been involved in every aspect of scientific discovery, generating stories of inextricably linked science and engineering achievements. So was born The What on Earth? Wallbook of Science & Engineering.
The versatile, large-canvas format, which uses timelines, visualisation, captions and an engaging news-reporting style, can be placed on the floor or on the wall. It can be used by individuals or to encourage discussion.
“The idea is to engage young minds with this open, big-picture, interconnected view,” said Lloyd. “Readers can look from one area of discovery to another to view our series of achievements, and be drawn in where they find their interest.
“It’s a work of art as well as a work of science and engineering: the ultimate cross-curricular challenge. That is its strength: accessible for those who enjoy the illustrations and for those whose imaginations are captured by news reporting, as well drawing in people who are keen to extend their existing knowledge of these subjects.”
The What on Earth? Wallbook of Science & Engineering will be launched at IMechE, One Birdcage Walk, London, on 2 September. Members of the institution who wish to buy copies of the wallbook – as a classroom resource or as a gift – can claim a £5 discount off the online price for a limited period by going to www.whatonearthbooks.com/imeche and entering the code IMECHE at the checkout.