First published 1971
Twelve-year-old Sam watches a spider weave its web and gets an idea that will change everything. He starts building machines that copy what animals do naturally. A device that mimics how bees navigate. A contraption based on how fish swim upstream. Each invention works better than Sam expected, but soon his creations begin affecting the natural world around him in ways he never anticipated. The animals that inspired his machines start behaving strangely. His neighbors complain about the noise and disruption. Sam faces a choice between his love of invention and his responsibility to the creatures and community he has disturbed. George explores the tension between human innovation and environmental harmony through Sam's journey from excited inventor to thoughtful steward of nature.
Genres: fiction, science-fiction, animals, adventure, technology
Vibes: thought-provoking, whimsical
Tropes: found-family, man-vs-nature
Hardcover · David McKay Co