A full-color picture book biography about Maria Telkes, the Hungarian-American engineer and solar power pioneer responsible for the first fully powered solar house! When engineer Maria Telkes was a child, dreamed of new ways to power our world. Why? She knew sunlight was clean and everywhere. She was a curious child, eager to work on her big ideas. What did this curious girl grow up to invent? In Bright Ideas about Sun Power, readers aged 4 to 8 explore the life of Maria Telkes, who overcame the challenges of scientific discovery to become the inventor of the first livable solar-powered house, the first portable solar oven, and the first life-saving solar still technology used to turn salt water into drinking water to this day!

In the Bright Ideas Biography series, children encounter real-life characters who are excited to experiment, happy to make a difference, and eager to collaborate with team members to invent world-changing technology. Age-appropriate vocabulary, detailed illustrations, and a glossary all support foundational learning for kids ages 4 to 8. Perfect for beginner readers or as a read-aloud nonfiction picture book!

About Bright Ideas STEM Biography books and Preschool Practice Press Bright Ideas about Sun Power - Maria Telkes is part of a set of four books in the Bright Ideas STEM Biography series that introduces pioneers of science to young children and makes career connections in different STEM fields. The other titles in this series include Bright Ideas About Inventions - Thomas Edison, Bright Ideas About Electricity - Nikola Tesla, Bright Ideas For A Better World - Lewis Lattimer.

Preschool Practice Press books in the Bright Ideas STEM Biography series bring real-world figures to life through fun, engaging narratives paired with dynamic, brightly colored illustrations that reinforce foundational learning. Curious children are encouraged to expand their perceptions of the roles of scientist, engineer, inventor, and innovator by understanding their challenges and triumphs. Preschool Practice's unique approach simultaneously grounds kids in factual knowledge while allowing them the space to be curious, creative, and critical thinkers.

All books are leveled for Guided Reading level and align with Common Core State Standards and National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies. All titles are available in paperback and ebook formats.