Book Corner

The Secret Story of Springs

Reviewed by Gary McCoy

This is the first review I’ve done of a children’s book, but this is an exception and one that springmakers will appreciate because it introduces young minds to the spring industry. “The Secret Story of Springs” is published by Oxford University Press and written by Jo Nelson. Beautiful illustrations are courtesy of Humberto Blanco.

The book is aimed at children 6 to 7 years old, and in 24 pages it helps them understand how many springs may be used in their home (more than 2,000) and in cars, trains, truck and bikes. It also provides a nice definition of how springs work and a historical context of early springs applications, such as Ancient Egyptian tweezers from 5,000 years ago.

Springs are described to children as secret devices that are at work all around them. “They cause your toast to pop up, open your doors, help you sleep well and let you bounce high in the air. Sometimes you see them, but often you don’t. They’re coiled up under things and inside things.”

I first heard about this book through a blog post by John Binns & Son (Springs) Ltd. in Skipton, England, U.K. The company explained that they offered experience, expertise and advice on the technical aspects of Nelson’s book, which was published in 2020. Nelson specializes in writing books which make educational information interesting and more accessible to children.

“The book aims to inform children about the wonderful world of springs, introducing just some of their many applications and technical terms,” explained the company. “It’s a fantastic initiative, and we are happy to have been able to assist in this, alongside our existing work within the education sector.”

The back of the book entices children with this statement: “From tweezers to trampolines, bounce into the fascinating world of springs!”

This would make a great gift for children, grandchildren or your local elementary school library. It can be ordered from the Book Depository www.bookdepository. com for US $8.12 with free delivery worldwide. n

Have a favorite business book you would like to tell us about or review? Send your suggestions to Springs managing editor Gary McCoy at gmccoy@fairwaycommunications.com.