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The Unstoppable Garrett Morgan: Inventor, Entrepreneur, Hero
"If a man puts something to block your way, the first time you go around it, the second time you go over it, and the third time you go through it."
Living by these words made inventor and entrepreneur Garrett Morgan unstoppable! Growing up in Claysville, Kentucky, the son of freed slaves, young and curious Garrett was eager for life beyond his family's farm. At age fourteen, he moved north to Cleveland, where his creative mind took flight amidst the city's booming clothing-manufacturing industry.
Using his ingenuity and tenacity, Garrett overcame racial barriers and forged a career as a successful businessman and inventor. But when a tunnel collapsed, trapping twenty men, the rescue would test both Garrett's invention -- and his courage.
Told in compelling prose by debut picture-book author Joan DiCicco and dynamic illustrations from artist Ebony Glenn, The Unstoppable Garrett Morgan is a powerful biography of an extraordinary man who dedicated his life to improving the lives of others.
Living by these words made inventor and entrepreneur Garrett Morgan unstoppable! Growing up in Claysville, Kentucky, the son of freed slaves, young and curious Garrett was eager for life beyond his family's farm. At age fourteen, he moved north to Cleveland, where his creative mind took flight amidst the city's booming clothing-manufacturing industry.
Using his ingenuity and tenacity, Garrett overcame racial barriers and forged a career as a successful businessman and inventor. But when a tunnel collapsed, trapping twenty men, the rescue would test both Garrett's invention -- and his courage.
Told in compelling prose by debut picture-book author Joan DiCicco and dynamic illustrations from artist Ebony Glenn, The Unstoppable Garrett Morgan is a powerful biography of an extraordinary man who dedicated his life to improving the lives of others.
40 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2019
3 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
February 11, 2025
Phenomenal stories of an amazing man. I can't believe I haven't heard of him before! I'll be looking for an adult biography now, as well as wanting to buy a copy of this children's book.
The pictures are nice, muted tones fitting the time period and feel of the book nicely
The pictures are nice, muted tones fitting the time period and feel of the book nicely
January 9, 2020
This picture book biography about Garrett Morgan shows the brilliance of this man who spent his entire life developing solutions for problems he encountered, often inventing useful tools still in use today. His mantra was:
"If a man puts something to block your way,
the first time you go around it,
the second time you go over it,
the third time you go through it."
Born in Kentucky the son of freed slaves, Morgan learned the importance of hard work and an education early in life. While still a teenager, he moved to Ohio in search of greater opportunity. He continued his education while doing work as a handyman. His ability to either repair, develop, or invent a better solution to problems helped him move up in the world, leading to a very successful life.
Debut author DiCicco gives readers an excellent overview of the life of this amazing African American man - including anecdotes which help breathe life into him, showing his humanity. She includes successes and brave deeds, not shying away from mentioning how he bravely faced racism and prejudice throughout his life, calling it by name. The smooth text reads like a storybook.
Illustrations digitally created by Ebony Glenn have softness like memories from the past. While the focal point is usually given more attention and detail, the surrounding people and background features have a fuzzy look to them - making them recede into the background. She uses a dark palette of colors throughout - largely blacks, browns, and golds. There is little white space; those pages appear with a golden color to them.
A strength in the book is the inclusion of a timeline about Garrett and his legacy. Several primary source illustrations to break up the text and add punch. Backmatter also includes is a bibliography of sources consulted when preparing this book; many include website addresses.
This would made a great read aloud book during a unit on inventors, Black History, racism, or just anytime you are looking for an uplifting tale of determination and grit.
Highly Recommended for grades K-5.
"If a man puts something to block your way,
the first time you go around it,
the second time you go over it,
the third time you go through it."
Born in Kentucky the son of freed slaves, Morgan learned the importance of hard work and an education early in life. While still a teenager, he moved to Ohio in search of greater opportunity. He continued his education while doing work as a handyman. His ability to either repair, develop, or invent a better solution to problems helped him move up in the world, leading to a very successful life.
Debut author DiCicco gives readers an excellent overview of the life of this amazing African American man - including anecdotes which help breathe life into him, showing his humanity. She includes successes and brave deeds, not shying away from mentioning how he bravely faced racism and prejudice throughout his life, calling it by name. The smooth text reads like a storybook.
Illustrations digitally created by Ebony Glenn have softness like memories from the past. While the focal point is usually given more attention and detail, the surrounding people and background features have a fuzzy look to them - making them recede into the background. She uses a dark palette of colors throughout - largely blacks, browns, and golds. There is little white space; those pages appear with a golden color to them.
A strength in the book is the inclusion of a timeline about Garrett and his legacy. Several primary source illustrations to break up the text and add punch. Backmatter also includes is a bibliography of sources consulted when preparing this book; many include website addresses.
This would made a great read aloud book during a unit on inventors, Black History, racism, or just anytime you are looking for an uplifting tale of determination and grit.
Highly Recommended for grades K-5.
July 22, 2020
The Unstoppable Garrett Morgan: Inventor, Entrepreneur, Hero is a children's picture book written by Joan DiCicco and illustrated by Ebony Glenn. It an accessible first look at a celebrated inventor in the black community in Garrett Morgan.
Garrett Augustus Morgan, Sr. was an African-American inventor, businessman, and community leader. His most notable inventions were a three position traffic signal and a smoke hood – the first modern gas mask notably used in a 1916 tunnel construction disaster rescue. Morgan also discovered and developed a chemical hair-processing and straightening solution.
DiCicco's text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. The narrative is well-researched debut picture book highlights the life of boundary-breaking African-American inventor Garrett Morgan. Backmatter includes an extensive timeline and bibliography. Glenn's digital illustrations, saturated in chalky sepias and browns, exude a diaphanous, smoky ambiance.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. The son of Kentucky sharecroppers, Morgan heads north at fourteen, getting work as a handyman, opening a sewing machine repair shop, and, alongside his wife, manufacturing affordable clothing for Cleveland's growing black middle class. He also invented a traffic signal, and garnering a patent for the Safety Hood, a helmet that was developed into gas masks before World War One.
All in all, The Unstoppable Garrett Morgan: Inventor, Entrepreneur, Hero is a riveting tale of a man who fought against stacked odds to accomplish what he put his mind to.
Garrett Augustus Morgan, Sr. was an African-American inventor, businessman, and community leader. His most notable inventions were a three position traffic signal and a smoke hood – the first modern gas mask notably used in a 1916 tunnel construction disaster rescue. Morgan also discovered and developed a chemical hair-processing and straightening solution.
DiCicco's text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. The narrative is well-researched debut picture book highlights the life of boundary-breaking African-American inventor Garrett Morgan. Backmatter includes an extensive timeline and bibliography. Glenn's digital illustrations, saturated in chalky sepias and browns, exude a diaphanous, smoky ambiance.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. The son of Kentucky sharecroppers, Morgan heads north at fourteen, getting work as a handyman, opening a sewing machine repair shop, and, alongside his wife, manufacturing affordable clothing for Cleveland's growing black middle class. He also invented a traffic signal, and garnering a patent for the Safety Hood, a helmet that was developed into gas masks before World War One.
All in all, The Unstoppable Garrett Morgan: Inventor, Entrepreneur, Hero is a riveting tale of a man who fought against stacked odds to accomplish what he put his mind to.
December 21, 2021
This book really opened my eyes! I knew that Garrett Morgan was from my home state of Kentucky, and that he had invented a traffic signal, but that was it. Now I know about his Safety Hood, which helped firefighters and other first responders breathe clean air and save lives.
Morgan developed his technical skills as a sharecroppers’ child, and moved north to Ohio for more opportunities. He took every chance he saw to repair and improve machinery, making the most of every chance he got. He also was an entrepreneur, an activist, and a publisher.
The book is illustrated in rich browns, which capture the range of skin tones in African American communities. The palette also evokes the sepia photography of Morgan’s lifetime.
Recommended for independent readers ages 7-10.
Morgan developed his technical skills as a sharecroppers’ child, and moved north to Ohio for more opportunities. He took every chance he saw to repair and improve machinery, making the most of every chance he got. He also was an entrepreneur, an activist, and a publisher.
The book is illustrated in rich browns, which capture the range of skin tones in African American communities. The palette also evokes the sepia photography of Morgan’s lifetime.
Recommended for independent readers ages 7-10.
March 25, 2021
This book is well written and entertaining. The images are fantastic. Also, I was enraptured with the story of Garrett Morgan who I had never heard of before I picked up this book. Who knew one person was responsible for so many inventions?
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March 11, 2021My 6 year old and 9 year old were enthralled with the story, and it led to a good discussion on history and racism.
July 26, 2021
Title: Unstoppable Garrett Morgan
Author: Joan DiCicco
Pages: 40
Lexile level: 980
Recommendations & Comments:
Garrett Morgan was an African American inventor and businessman born in Claysville, Kentucky in 1877. As sharecroppers, Garrett’s family worked hard but the cost of living was so expensive that the family often found themselves in debt. As a result, Garrett would find ways to make the things his family could not afford to buy. Later in life, Garrett applied his innovative, do-it-yourself creativity to his job in the garment industry. Eventually, Garrett opened his own business, manufacturing affordable clothing for the African American middle class. After learning of a fire where firefighters were unable to breath due to heavy smoke, Garrett created a heat resistant canvas helmet with air tubes. His breathing apparatus, known as the Safety Hood, was a success and later used as the prototype for the gas masks used in World War 1. Author DiCicco tells a compelling story, chronicling the life of man who overcame racial and financial adversity. The most riveting part of Unstoppable Garrett Morgan comes as Garrett rescues several miners trapped underground. Ebony Glenn’s rich and realistic illustrations compliment the story of this arguably unsung hero.
Reviewed by Mr. Roger
Author: Joan DiCicco
Pages: 40
Lexile level: 980
Recommendations & Comments:
Garrett Morgan was an African American inventor and businessman born in Claysville, Kentucky in 1877. As sharecroppers, Garrett’s family worked hard but the cost of living was so expensive that the family often found themselves in debt. As a result, Garrett would find ways to make the things his family could not afford to buy. Later in life, Garrett applied his innovative, do-it-yourself creativity to his job in the garment industry. Eventually, Garrett opened his own business, manufacturing affordable clothing for the African American middle class. After learning of a fire where firefighters were unable to breath due to heavy smoke, Garrett created a heat resistant canvas helmet with air tubes. His breathing apparatus, known as the Safety Hood, was a success and later used as the prototype for the gas masks used in World War 1. Author DiCicco tells a compelling story, chronicling the life of man who overcame racial and financial adversity. The most riveting part of Unstoppable Garrett Morgan comes as Garrett rescues several miners trapped underground. Ebony Glenn’s rich and realistic illustrations compliment the story of this arguably unsung hero.
Reviewed by Mr. Roger
December 12, 2024
Loved this book about the ingenuity and determination of Garrett Morgan. Beautiful illustrations in sepia tones as photography of the era would appear.
Born in Claysville, Kentucky after the Civil War, to sharecropping parents, Garrett moved to Ohio at age fourteen. He worked as a janitor, then repairman and machinist, sewing repair shop entrepreneur who hired 32 seamstresses, began making and supplying affordable women’s and children’s clothing in Cleveland.
He invented early firemen gear, the “Safety Hood” which helped them breathe in burning smoky conditions. The invention became more widely used in the early 1900’s, and during a Cleveland Waterworks accident in 1916. The hood evolved into the early gas masks used in WWI, which saved thousands of lives. I assume they were the same early gas masks prototype to those later distributed to children during the Dust Bowl in the Great Plains in the 1930s.
Garrett Morgan also started a newspaper where African Americans could advertise their businesses and get fair news, he created street traffic signals, developed a hair care line to straighten curly hair, and more. When he saw a need he worked to meet it.
The following quote is attributed to him: “ If a man puts something to block your way, the first time you go around it, the second time you go over it, and the third time you go through it.”
Born in Claysville, Kentucky after the Civil War, to sharecropping parents, Garrett moved to Ohio at age fourteen. He worked as a janitor, then repairman and machinist, sewing repair shop entrepreneur who hired 32 seamstresses, began making and supplying affordable women’s and children’s clothing in Cleveland.
He invented early firemen gear, the “Safety Hood” which helped them breathe in burning smoky conditions. The invention became more widely used in the early 1900’s, and during a Cleveland Waterworks accident in 1916. The hood evolved into the early gas masks used in WWI, which saved thousands of lives. I assume they were the same early gas masks prototype to those later distributed to children during the Dust Bowl in the Great Plains in the 1930s.
Garrett Morgan also started a newspaper where African Americans could advertise their businesses and get fair news, he created street traffic signals, developed a hair care line to straighten curly hair, and more. When he saw a need he worked to meet it.
The following quote is attributed to him: “ If a man puts something to block your way, the first time you go around it, the second time you go over it, and the third time you go through it.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2021
Garrett Morgan was an amazing man. His parents were sharecroppers, freed slaves. He himself started working as a janitor in a clothing factory when he was 14. But Garrett Morgan was an inventor. When he saw a problem that could be solved by inventive engineering, he worked out a way to solve it. Over his lifetime, he invented a sort of gas mask that fire fighters could use to protect them from the gases and smoke of fires (and later was used in WW I to protect soldiers from poison gases). He came up with the idea of a yellow light for stop lights so drivers could know when to slow down for the red light to follow; and he invented the "all stop" function on traffic lights so that pedestrians could cross streets more safely. He came up with a hair straightening product that was safe for human skin. And on and on. He saw mechanical snags as problems that needed to be solved and he solved them.
A good book for elementary schoolers. Well written, well illustrated. My only issue with the narrative is that I'm quite sure he faced many more racially based problems than are discussed here. On the other hand, the focus of the book is Morgan's brilliance as an inventor and that is well described in this book.
A good book for elementary schoolers. Well written, well illustrated. My only issue with the narrative is that I'm quite sure he faced many more racially based problems than are discussed here. On the other hand, the focus of the book is Morgan's brilliance as an inventor and that is well described in this book.
August 21, 2020
This picture book biography was very interesting to me. A share cropper's son in Kentucky, Garret, can fix many machines. An event in his early life , as well as his ability to invent and fix things, leads him in a direction once he goes north.
Starts as a sweeper, then invents a sewing machine belt tighter(1901). Hired as the first black machinist, invents the safety hood and applies for a patent, gets it, wins a prize for it. In 1916 rescues and recovers victims in the Cleveland Waterworks Tunnel Disaster. The safety hood is developed into the WWI gas mask.
He meets and marries Mary Hasek, a white immigrant seamstress from Barvaria , Germany. They open up their own tailoring shop.
He establishes a local newspaper for and about the African American community.
He invents a traffic signal.
He did so much more! This is a worth while read.
Quote from page 9-
"If a man puts something to block your way,
the first time you go around it,
the second time you go over it,
the third time you go through it."
I really appreciated the timeline in the back.
Starts as a sweeper, then invents a sewing machine belt tighter(1901). Hired as the first black machinist, invents the safety hood and applies for a patent, gets it, wins a prize for it. In 1916 rescues and recovers victims in the Cleveland Waterworks Tunnel Disaster. The safety hood is developed into the WWI gas mask.
He meets and marries Mary Hasek, a white immigrant seamstress from Barvaria , Germany. They open up their own tailoring shop.
He establishes a local newspaper for and about the African American community.
He invents a traffic signal.
He did so much more! This is a worth while read.
Quote from page 9-
"If a man puts something to block your way,
the first time you go around it,
the second time you go over it,
the third time you go through it."
I really appreciated the timeline in the back.
September 9, 2020
"If a man puts something to block your way, the first time you go around it, the second time you go over it, and the third time you go through it."
Living by these words made inventor and entrepreneur Garrett Morgan unstoppable! Growing up in Claysville, Kentucky, the son of freed slaves, young and curious Garrett was eager for life beyond his family's farm. At age fourteen, he moved north to Cleveland, where his creative mind took flight amidst the city's booming clothing-manufacturing industry.
Using his ingenuity and tenacity, Garrett overcame racial barriers and forged a career as a successful businessman and inventor. But when a tunnel collapsed, trapping twenty men, the rescue would test both Garrett's invention -- and his courage.
Told in compelling prose by debut picture-book author Joan DiCicco and dynamic illustrations from artist Ebony Glenn, The Unstoppable Garrett Morgan is a powerful biography of an extraordinary man who dedicated his life to improving the lives of others.
Living by these words made inventor and entrepreneur Garrett Morgan unstoppable! Growing up in Claysville, Kentucky, the son of freed slaves, young and curious Garrett was eager for life beyond his family's farm. At age fourteen, he moved north to Cleveland, where his creative mind took flight amidst the city's booming clothing-manufacturing industry.
Using his ingenuity and tenacity, Garrett overcame racial barriers and forged a career as a successful businessman and inventor. But when a tunnel collapsed, trapping twenty men, the rescue would test both Garrett's invention -- and his courage.
Told in compelling prose by debut picture-book author Joan DiCicco and dynamic illustrations from artist Ebony Glenn, The Unstoppable Garrett Morgan is a powerful biography of an extraordinary man who dedicated his life to improving the lives of others.
May 20, 2021
Garrett Morgan's personal motto was similar to the entire concept behind We're Going on a Bear Hunt: can't go around it, can't go over it, have to go through it. And that's how he treated each obstacle in his way. With diligence and ingenuity, Morgan solves the problems before him: how to help his sharecropper parents, how to fix the sewing machines at the factory he helps clean, how to help firefighters breathe while rescuing people from fires. Garrett Morgan, as a person, is a fascinating subject.
Extensive backmatter offers more context and detail. A timeline, a bibliography, and a few photographs. The illustrations are gorgeous, too. Richly colored, the closeup scenes have a warm, sketched quality and the faraway scenes are muted impressionistic backgrounds.
This is a person you should know, and this biography offers a decent introduction.
Extensive backmatter offers more context and detail. A timeline, a bibliography, and a few photographs. The illustrations are gorgeous, too. Richly colored, the closeup scenes have a warm, sketched quality and the faraway scenes are muted impressionistic backgrounds.
This is a person you should know, and this biography offers a decent introduction.
March 30, 2020
The Unstoppable Garrett Morgan : Inventor, Entrepreneur, Hero by Joan DiCicco illustrated by Ebony Glenn PICTURE BOOK BIOGRAPHY. Lee and Low, 2019. $20. 9781620145647
BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
Garrett Morgan was the child of freed slaves and grew up as a share cropper. because money was tight, Garrett was very good at making what the family needed out of whatever he could find. As an adult he moved north for more opportunities and continued inventing things. Remembering a fire when he was a child, Garrett invented a breathing hood that enabled firemen to rescue people.
I do love these short biography picture books. DiCicco is a fine storyteller, presenting a concise life story that would make a great springboard to do research for a longer project. Also includes a timeline and a bibliography.
Lisa Librarian
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
Garrett Morgan was the child of freed slaves and grew up as a share cropper. because money was tight, Garrett was very good at making what the family needed out of whatever he could find. As an adult he moved north for more opportunities and continued inventing things. Remembering a fire when he was a child, Garrett invented a breathing hood that enabled firemen to rescue people.
I do love these short biography picture books. DiCicco is a fine storyteller, presenting a concise life story that would make a great springboard to do research for a longer project. Also includes a timeline and a bibliography.
Lisa Librarian
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
March 30, 2021
This kind of book is my jam. All about someone I'd never heard of, but who did amazing things, and should definitely be remembered. So Garrett Morgan was truly an unstoppable dude. He faced prejudice at every turn, but would always find a solution. My favorite being that he wasn't allowed to advertise his inventions in major newspapers, because of racism, so he started his own black newspaper. Not only could he advertise, but he employed black journalists to write, and they focused on stories and issues not necessarily covered by the majors. His most impressive invention featured in the story is a hood for firefighters, which later became a model for the gas masks worn in WWI. Seriously, how have I not heard of him?
Illustrations are great. Quite a lot of text on each page, so this is better for slightly older readers. Second grade maybe? Definitely glad this is a 2021 Bluestem, because this book, and Garett's story, should be displayed and shared.
Illustrations are great. Quite a lot of text on each page, so this is better for slightly older readers. Second grade maybe? Definitely glad this is a 2021 Bluestem, because this book, and Garett's story, should be displayed and shared.
June 13, 2022
This picture book biography is phenomenal. I was familiar with parts of Garrett Morgan's story, mainly his invention of traffic signals, but there was a lot that I didn't know about his life and other work, including his early design for what eventually became a gas mask, his rescue efforts during the Cleveland Waterworks tunnel disaster, and his joint business ventures with his wife, a German immigrant. The book notes that Ohio was the first state to legalize inter-racial marriage, which I also didn't know.
This book has great illustrations, a solid historical note in the back, and genuinely suspenseful elements that make for exciting reading. I would recommend this to kids, teens, and adults, especially if they are interested in Black history, inventors' life stories, or Ohio history.
This book has great illustrations, a solid historical note in the back, and genuinely suspenseful elements that make for exciting reading. I would recommend this to kids, teens, and adults, especially if they are interested in Black history, inventors' life stories, or Ohio history.
November 8, 2019
Untold histories -- ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
True biography of an African American inventor from Ohio who invented a Safety Hood to allow firefighters to breathe in smoke-filled spaces. His personal story of overcoming many obstacles that he experienced growing up in Kentucky and Ohio, son of sharecropper parents. A detailed chronology of Biographical highlights supplement this informational biography. Although Too long /involved for family storytimes, highly recommended for either school reports and/or individual reading and learning.
African American illustrator.
True biography of an African American inventor from Ohio who invented a Safety Hood to allow firefighters to breathe in smoke-filled spaces. His personal story of overcoming many obstacles that he experienced growing up in Kentucky and Ohio, son of sharecropper parents. A detailed chronology of Biographical highlights supplement this informational biography. Although Too long /involved for family storytimes, highly recommended for either school reports and/or individual reading and learning.
African American illustrator.
March 13, 2021
Shows the various hardships Garrett had to overcome (very poor family, no education past 6th grade, low level jobs, not able to talk to the woman he liked, people not buying his products because he was black).
Focuses not only on the firefighter safety hood, but also on his work with sewing machines and black hair products.
But, not only was he an inventor, he was a hero who went into a tunnel below ground to save workers after an explosion.
Focuses not only on the firefighter safety hood, but also on his work with sewing machines and black hair products.
But, not only was he an inventor, he was a hero who went into a tunnel below ground to save workers after an explosion.
March 18, 2020
An excellent picture book biography about Garrett Margan who lived in Cleveland, OH. He opened a clothing store where he and his wife made clothes for the African American Community. He invented the safety hood which funneled clean air to firefighters. He started the newspaper The Call for African Americans and he also invented the traffic light. Amazing life.
March 27, 2022
Wonderfully written book. It is perfect for elementary school readers. The facts about this great African American inventor was informative. The story of Garrett Morgan's success despite having to overcome racial barriers was a testimony to his determination. His life span was 1877 to 1963 is a tribute to his accomplishments.
November 30, 2019
An excellent introduction to Ohio Inventor, Garrett Morgan. He did much of his work in Cleveland, but it continues to benefit people across the country and around the world!
Check out this fascinating book to learn more!
Check out this fascinating book to learn more!
December 19, 2019
Great story about the life of Garrett Morgan an African American inventor, entrepreneur and hero. Garrett invented the firefighter Safety Hood, the sewing machine belt tightener, the traffic signal and, the de-curling comb.
October 9, 2020
Like a lot of narrative nonfiction there's a fair amount of guessing what he thought/felt. I appreciate the references back to his quote to give them an anchor.
November 28, 2021
At a Glance:
Genre: Biography/Memoir, Inventors/Inventions
Format: Hardcover Picture Book
Age Range: 8-12
Themes: Discrimination, Racial Barriers, Persistence, Overcoming Challenges
Awards/Reviews: Kirkus
Acquisition: Media Search/Library
Spoiler Alert Rating: 3/10
Facing numerous racial barriers and challenges of discrimination throughout his life, Garrett Morgan remained determined, persistent, and—unstoppable. He studied, researched, planned, and devised unique methods to bring his ideas and his inventions to fruition. He confronted obstacle after obstacle, but never gave up, living by the motto: “If a man puts something to block your way, the first time you go around it, the second time you go over it, the third time you go through it.”
The story opens with Garrett, about twelve, witnessing a fire on a neighboring farm. We learn he is the son of sharecroppers and such fires were common due to the use of the highly-flammable materials of the time. Garrett is our iconic hero; his character remains stoic and unchanged through the text though his inventions changed people’s lives during his life and still help people in our societies today. At fourteen he left the South and found a job as a handyman, saving some of his earnings to continue his studies. In viewing the world, Garrett continually identified societies’ needs and worked diligently to meet those needs. Imprinted with the dangers of fires and the hazards firefighters faced, he later developed “the safety hood” to protect them from the deadly smoke and fumes. With multiple patents, inventions, and political interests, Garrett never stopped advocating for the people in his community and beyond.
The text is simple, straightforward, and easy to read, though the content would be best suited for late elementary grades due to the frequent Tier-Two and Tier-Three words. Dark, watercolor images with a minimal palette portray the tones for images at the turn of the 20th century as well as align with what must have been Garrett’s frustration in having his inventions dismissed or not recognized due to race. His relentless efforts aided the African American community, firefighters, American soldiers, and pedestrians and drivers in a motorized world. A timeline at the end of the text documents his many accomplishments and contributions to society.
Teacher considerations:
Social Studies: Sharecropping: Garrett’s family worked as sharecroppers, tending to crops “on land owned by a different family in exchange for a share of the crop at harvest time.” Garrett noticed that due to costs for “housing, farm tools, and seed…they often found themselves in debt.” Students may research sharecropping to determine if sharecroppers often owed money to the landowners. Stanford History Education Group provides an example sharecropping contract with discussion questions. A photo is included that shows sharecroppers working on a plantation that may be mistaken for slaves. Students may analyze the materials and determine if the contact is fair. Did parts of the contract ensure that the sharecroppers would be indebted to plantation owners?
Sequencing: Timeline: Using computer programs or poster paper, students may compile a timeline of Garrett Morgan’s accomplishments and his life or historical events that may have impacted his accomplishments. Timelines allow students to organize information and see connections between world events and an individual’s life. For research, students may use this strategy to outline information about a prominent person, historical events, or an intersection between the two, making inferences and drawing conclusions.
Social-Emotional Learning: Prejudice/Equality: Chart the challenges that Garrett faced in the story. In one column list text evidence: “Many were impressed by the brilliant invention but refused to consider the Safety Hood when they discovered Garrett was African American.” And “Garrett and his brother were not given credit for their bravery.” Was Garrett treated equally? Students may list explanations for each piece of text evidence in the next column. After the chart is complete, have students discuss their findings. Why do you think Garrett was treated differently from other inventors of the time? Garrett devoted his life to developing inventions to help people. What does this tell you about the societies at the time? Today?
Reference:
Reisman, A. (2009). Sharecropping lesson plan central historical ... - pc\|mac. Sharecropping Lesson Plan. Retrieved November 27, 2021, from http://images.pcmac.org/SiSFiles/Scho....
Genre: Biography/Memoir, Inventors/Inventions
Format: Hardcover Picture Book
Age Range: 8-12
Themes: Discrimination, Racial Barriers, Persistence, Overcoming Challenges
Awards/Reviews: Kirkus
Acquisition: Media Search/Library
Spoiler Alert Rating: 3/10
Facing numerous racial barriers and challenges of discrimination throughout his life, Garrett Morgan remained determined, persistent, and—unstoppable. He studied, researched, planned, and devised unique methods to bring his ideas and his inventions to fruition. He confronted obstacle after obstacle, but never gave up, living by the motto: “If a man puts something to block your way, the first time you go around it, the second time you go over it, the third time you go through it.”
The story opens with Garrett, about twelve, witnessing a fire on a neighboring farm. We learn he is the son of sharecroppers and such fires were common due to the use of the highly-flammable materials of the time. Garrett is our iconic hero; his character remains stoic and unchanged through the text though his inventions changed people’s lives during his life and still help people in our societies today. At fourteen he left the South and found a job as a handyman, saving some of his earnings to continue his studies. In viewing the world, Garrett continually identified societies’ needs and worked diligently to meet those needs. Imprinted with the dangers of fires and the hazards firefighters faced, he later developed “the safety hood” to protect them from the deadly smoke and fumes. With multiple patents, inventions, and political interests, Garrett never stopped advocating for the people in his community and beyond.
The text is simple, straightforward, and easy to read, though the content would be best suited for late elementary grades due to the frequent Tier-Two and Tier-Three words. Dark, watercolor images with a minimal palette portray the tones for images at the turn of the 20th century as well as align with what must have been Garrett’s frustration in having his inventions dismissed or not recognized due to race. His relentless efforts aided the African American community, firefighters, American soldiers, and pedestrians and drivers in a motorized world. A timeline at the end of the text documents his many accomplishments and contributions to society.
Teacher considerations:
Social Studies: Sharecropping: Garrett’s family worked as sharecroppers, tending to crops “on land owned by a different family in exchange for a share of the crop at harvest time.” Garrett noticed that due to costs for “housing, farm tools, and seed…they often found themselves in debt.” Students may research sharecropping to determine if sharecroppers often owed money to the landowners. Stanford History Education Group provides an example sharecropping contract with discussion questions. A photo is included that shows sharecroppers working on a plantation that may be mistaken for slaves. Students may analyze the materials and determine if the contact is fair. Did parts of the contract ensure that the sharecroppers would be indebted to plantation owners?
Sequencing: Timeline: Using computer programs or poster paper, students may compile a timeline of Garrett Morgan’s accomplishments and his life or historical events that may have impacted his accomplishments. Timelines allow students to organize information and see connections between world events and an individual’s life. For research, students may use this strategy to outline information about a prominent person, historical events, or an intersection between the two, making inferences and drawing conclusions.
Social-Emotional Learning: Prejudice/Equality: Chart the challenges that Garrett faced in the story. In one column list text evidence: “Many were impressed by the brilliant invention but refused to consider the Safety Hood when they discovered Garrett was African American.” And “Garrett and his brother were not given credit for their bravery.” Was Garrett treated equally? Students may list explanations for each piece of text evidence in the next column. After the chart is complete, have students discuss their findings. Why do you think Garrett was treated differently from other inventors of the time? Garrett devoted his life to developing inventions to help people. What does this tell you about the societies at the time? Today?
Reference:
Reisman, A. (2009). Sharecropping lesson plan central historical ... - pc\|mac. Sharecropping Lesson Plan. Retrieved November 27, 2021, from http://images.pcmac.org/SiSFiles/Scho....
October 29, 2019
Many young readers and their parents will never have heard of Garrett Morgan, the subject of this biography. By the time they finish reading the book, they will surely wish that more information about this inventor was available. Not only was he an inventor, coming up with a Safety Hood to allow firefighters to breathe clean air while dealing with fired and smoke, but he also came up with a sewing machine belt tightener, a traffic signal and a line of hair products. His is an inspiring story since he was born to sharecroppers in Kentucky in 1877 and rose to own his own business, a sewing machine repair shop and affordable clothing store. Living on the farm meant that he needed to be able to fix all sorts of machines, a skill he used later on when he moved to Ohio. I was particularly impressed with his life philosophy to go around whatever stands in your way, and if that doesn't work, go over it, and if that won't work, head on through it. This biography contains examples of his creative thinking but also his heroism and grace under pressure. I couldn't believe that he and his brother were slighted and not awarded the Carnegie Medal for Heroism for their actions during the Cleveland Waterworks Explosion, but pleased that others noticed and clamored for some sort of recognition. This man truly was unstoppable and a great example to all of us about how to live our lives and navigate life's challenges. The back matter includes references, and the illustrations are filled with action and color and make readers feel as though they, too, are living alongside Morgan. Stories like his need to be told and not forgotten.
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October 28, 2019Cleveland’s own Garrett Morgan finally gets his due in this picture book biography.
The text highlights key achievements in Morgan’s remarkable life, from his first invention (an improved belt for sewing machines), to the ingenious Safety Hood (which saved lives during the Cleveland Waterworks tunnel collapse and served as the prototype for WWI gas masks), to his famous traffic signal, designed for vehicle and pedestrian safety. DiCicco directly addresses the racism and prejudice Morgan faced, most notably in the aftermath of the Waterworks Tunnel Rescue, where Morgan and his brother were not awarded a Carnegie Medal for Heroism, as the white rescuers were.
Throughout the book, the illustrations’ warm palette and muted backgrounds keep the focus on Morgan- his clever mind, his compassion for his community, and his many inventions.
A detailed timeline in the backmatter includes even more achievements and accolades – his successful hair care line, establishing the Cleveland Call newspaper, running for local office. A wonderful addition to units on inventors, local history, and African American history.
The text highlights key achievements in Morgan’s remarkable life, from his first invention (an improved belt for sewing machines), to the ingenious Safety Hood (which saved lives during the Cleveland Waterworks tunnel collapse and served as the prototype for WWI gas masks), to his famous traffic signal, designed for vehicle and pedestrian safety. DiCicco directly addresses the racism and prejudice Morgan faced, most notably in the aftermath of the Waterworks Tunnel Rescue, where Morgan and his brother were not awarded a Carnegie Medal for Heroism, as the white rescuers were.
Throughout the book, the illustrations’ warm palette and muted backgrounds keep the focus on Morgan- his clever mind, his compassion for his community, and his many inventions.
A detailed timeline in the backmatter includes even more achievements and accolades – his successful hair care line, establishing the Cleveland Call newspaper, running for local office. A wonderful addition to units on inventors, local history, and African American history.
Read
February 1, 2020This is an autobiography detailing the determination, perseverance and accomplishments of Garrett Morgan. Taking place during the civil rights time period, Garett teaches his readers that one of the most important traits that you can possess is the ability to persevere. He shows this every time he is told he cannot accomplish something because of the color of his skin. Regardless of the racism that Garrett faces he goes on to invent numerous inventions and receive recognition from many people. I think that the illustrations are beautiful and places the reader in Garrett Morgan's time. The author provides clear details and interesting facts that even some adults aren't aware of. What makes this book so unique is that it celebrates the accomplishments of African Americans while telling their journey to get there. Something that was hardly ever done during many movements. I was pleasantly please to be gifted this book for review for the 2020 Multicultural Children's Book Day and excited to read it with my students and own children. Check them out on their twitter page at #ReadYourWorld.
January 13, 2020
Garrett Morgan was the child of freed slaves and grew up as a share cropper. because money was tight, Garrett was very good at making what the family needed out of whatever he could find. As an adult he moved north for more opportunities and continued inventing things. Remembering a fire when he was a child, Garrett invented a breathing hood that enabled firemen to rescue people.
I do love these short biography picture books. DiCicco is a fine storyteller, presenting a concise life story that would make a great springboard to do research for a longer project. Also includes a timeline and a bibliography.
I do love these short biography picture books. DiCicco is a fine storyteller, presenting a concise life story that would make a great springboard to do research for a longer project. Also includes a timeline and a bibliography.
March 5, 2020
Garrett Morgan (1877-1963), the son of a freed slave, lived much of his life in Cleveland, Ohio. He was the inventor of the Safety Hood, which made it safer for fire fighters to enter burning buildings. He also invented a stop light. He also ran his own business providing women's beauty products. This picture book biography also has an extensive time line in the back of the book with some photos, and a bibliography. It is a very interesting book and includes more details than other books I have read about him.
July 9, 2021
An enterprising young man, seeking a better life in Cleveland, pays attention to his surroundings, helping to improve the operation of the sewing machines around him. After promotions, he starts his own company. Concerned for the safety of firefighters, Garrett develops a Safety Hood to help their ability to breath. When workers were trapped in a tunnel below Lake Erie, someone suggested using his hood. No one would volunteer to use it until Garrett rescued someone. Others received awards, Garrett did not. He also developed traffic signals.
Bluestem Award Nominee 2022
Bluestem Award Nominee 2022
July 3, 2025
This is a fabulous picture book biography of inventor Garrett Morgan. He faced many obstacles due to racial issues in America, but he faced those obstacles head on and found ways to make a difference from repairing sewing machines, creating a traffic light, and creating a hood allowing rescuers to breath in areas where there was too much smoke or dangerous gases. There is much to learn in this book by Jan DiCicco and illustrated by Ebony Glenn. Wonderful back matter including a timeline make this a perfect book for biography reports in elementary or middle school libraries.
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