Ryan Jacobson

Can you believe that the first tennis balls didn't bounce? Or that the world's first basketball hoop was a peach crate? Get ready to learn the amazing stories behind inventions you use every day. From the Minnesota teen who invented water skis to the Missouri mechanic who came up with the idea of driving over cars with his monster pickup truck, you'll find out how we got some of our favorite entertainment inventions.

Four student athletes are cut from their teams, but they're determined not to give up. They create the ultimate fan club . . . the B-Team, and will stop at nothing to help their former squads win. When an opposing baseball team is suspected of cheating, these heroes for hire take the case. But will the Fanatic Foursome knock one out of the park or get caught in a pickle?

It just might be the most haunted state in America. Find out why! This incomparable collection features only the scariest, most surprising ghostly tales of the Great Lake State. From a place so haunted it was featured on national television to a region where a monster is said to reside, it's all inside this book. Best of all, the 27 stories were written with a campfire in mind, so they're perfect for sharing aloud.

It's been called the most haunted state in America. Find out why! This incomparable collection features only the scariest, most surprising ghostly tales of the Badger State. From a house so haunted it was featured on national television to a road where a werewolf is said to reside, it's all inside this book. Best of all, the 28 stories were written with a campfire in mind, so they're perfect for sharing aloud.

Do you enjoy lending a helping hand to people in your community? What if you could combine your interest in serving others with earning money, even before you turn sixteen? Good news: You can start a business that offers a useful service-whether it's walking your neighbors' dogs, mowing lawns, or tutoring classmates. This book will show you the ins and outs of each job and give you the tips and tricks you need to get started.

Do you enjoy using your creativity to make something new? What if you could turn those skills into cash? Good news: You can go into business making and selling items that people want-from sports flags to fancy phone covers. This book will show you the ins and outs of each moneymaking venture and give you the tips and tricks you need to get started.

This book explains how a wind turbine harnesses wind power for various uses. The text discusses the history of the technology as well as the need for wind power and how it could change our world.

This book explains what a laser is and the principles of light necessary for understanding laser technology. The book also describes how lasers came to be, and how they are used, as well as what the future of lasers may hold.

Explains what light and vision are; describes the scientific method; and includes experiments testing different light and vision concepts. This series makes the scientific process lots of fun! Clear, step-by-step instructions let readers explore the world of science through well-crafted, hands-on experiments. Colorful photos, lively and informative illustrations, and easy-to-read text make the topics appealing and accessible to young readers. Additional...

Explains how oranges are grown and harvested; discusses how oranges are turned into orange juice and packaged at a factory; and how orange juice becomes available to consumers. Kids are used to seeing stores stocked with foods, toys, household items, and more. But most kids know very little about where those products come from or how they are made. Our discovery-focused Before the Store series raises young readers' awareness by showing the journeys...