Science of Roller Coasters: Understanding Energy

Science in Action

by Karen Latchana Kenney

In this engaging title, young readers learn about different forms of energy! Different forms of energy such a potential and kinetic are explained, as are gravity, acceleration, velocity, g-forces, and centripetal force. These properties are illustrated by the design and operation of roller coasters. Colorful infographics make joules and shifting energy easily accessible, and prominent contributors such as LaMarcus Thompson are featured. A fun experiment with potential and kinetic energy brings the science of energy to life! Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Checkerboard Library is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

32 pages, ebook

First published January 1, 2016

About the author

Karen Latchana Kenney is an Indian-Irish children’s author, born near the equator in Guyana, and raised far north in Minnesota. Her debut picture book SNOW STEPS launched in November 2024 and was a 2025 Minnesota Book Awards Finalist and a 2025 Pedro and Daniel Intersectionality Book Award Finalist.

She writes both fiction and nonfiction stories about immigrant and biracial experiences, scientific discoveries, momentous historical events, and civil rights struggles. Her newest YA nonfiction book, FASCINATING FUNGI, launches in October 2025 from Lerner Publishing. Kirkus gave it a starred review, saying it is "An extraordinarily well-researched, well-presented, and visually appealing book on a fascinating subject."

Her other children's books have received several starred reviews and have been named a 2023 Mathical Book Prize Honor, and a YALSA Quick Pick for Reluctant Readers.

She lives in Minnetonka, Minnesota, with her family, where they explore all the wild places they can find.