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When Sparks Fly

The True Story of Robert Goddard, the Father of US Rocketry

Illustrated by Diego Funck
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About The Book

Blast off with this bright, energetic nonfiction picture book from Kristen Fulton and Diego Funck all about Robert Goddard, the inventor of US rocket science!

Robert Goddard may be known as the father of US rocketry, but back in the 1880s, he was just a kid in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Even as a youngster, his eyes glimmered with scientific interest and the thrill of discovery. With BAMS! POPS! BANGS! he experimented time and time again with one mission: make his rockets fly!

Join Kristen Fulton and Diego Funck as they take you on one explosive journey about a young kid who shot for the moon, never gave up, and let his creative sparks of curiosity burn bright.

About The Author

Photography by Rusty Fulton

Nonfiction picture book author Kristen Fulton calls central Florida home. But, she spends the majority of the year traveling across America. She visits every museum and history center that she can find along her journey. Wafting through dusty artifacts, Kristen is always on the lookout for her next story. Want to learn more about Kristen or when she will be in your area for author events? Visit KristenFulton.com.

About The Illustrator

Diego Funck is an artist living in Brussels, Belgium, where he works as an illustrator and graphic designer for children's books and international publications. He has showed his works in galleries in Argentina, Belgium, and England. Visit him online at Behance.net/DiegoFunck.

Product Details

Raves and Reviews

"An engaging and accessible contribution to the STEM-related biography canon."

– Booklist

Awards and Honors

  • CBC/NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Book
  • Bank Street Best Children's Book of the Year Selection Title
  • CBC-NSTA Best STEM Book
  • Beehive Award Nominee

Resources and Downloads

High Resolution Images

More books from this author: Kristen Fulton