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Superpower?: The Wearable-Tech Revolution
Super strength, super hearing, super vision and super connection. Wearable technology may soon give humans superpowers. Imagine being able to run without getting tired. Or travel to the moon to observe Earth for science class. The technologies that could make these things possible are mixing into our lives faster than we realize. The stakes are high. In Superpower?: The Wearable-Tech Revolution , young readers will discover how technological innovation can help people survive and thrive. But what if super strength results in endless work? What if hackers can read our thoughts? What if living in a virtual world affects our humanity? The book asks readers to question the pros and cons of technology and consider if innovation can go too far. Meet the inventors, designers, engineers, scientists and young people navigating the next tech frontier.
112 pages, Hardcover
Published October 18, 2022
1 person is currently reading
12 people want to read
About the author
Elaine Kachala
4 booksElaine Kachala is the award-winning author of Superpower? The Wearable-Tech Revolution (Orca Book Publishers, 2022). This STEAM nonfiction title for middle-grade readers was recognized as an NSTA/CBC Best STEM Book K-12 (2023). It was also a finalist for several prestigious honors, including the AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books (2024), Red Cedar Book Awards (2023-24), and the SCBWI Golden Kite Award (2023) Building Homes for All: Technology for a Fair and Green Planet publishes in March 2026 (Orca Book Publishers). It was awarded the Junior Library Guild Gold Standard (2025)!
With over 20 years of experience as a health-policy writer and adviser, Elaine holds degrees in psychology and sociology (University of Toronto) and a master’s degree in environmental studies (York University). Her unique background informs her engaging approach to STEAM topics for young readers. Elaine hopes to write books that inspire young readers to embrace their curiosity and creativity as they learn about real-life inventors who are unafraid to dream big while thinking critically about health, social, and ethical issues. Elaine lives with her family in Toronto.
With over 20 years of experience as a health-policy writer and adviser, Elaine holds degrees in psychology and sociology (University of Toronto) and a master’s degree in environmental studies (York University). Her unique background informs her engaging approach to STEAM topics for young readers. Elaine hopes to write books that inspire young readers to embrace their curiosity and creativity as they learn about real-life inventors who are unafraid to dream big while thinking critically about health, social, and ethical issues. Elaine lives with her family in Toronto.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
October 3, 2022
Thanks to the author for an eARC of this upcoming release.
Did you know there are devices that attach to the head that can interface with the brain and help people with disabilities move and communicate more efficiently? Do you know about the Holy Dress, a wearable lie detector that shocks a person if they lie? How about a prosthetic limb that shoots glitter?
I had never heard of the term “wearable” until I opened this book, which is part of the Orca Think series that encourages kids to ask questions about their world and take action towards a better future. Wearables are technological devices that are on, in, or attached to the body. This book not only introduces us to many creative and innovative ideas but also challenges young readers to ask the tough questions regarding the ethics of issues such as tracking personal data, growing replacement organs, and changing how we live in the real world. The bold illustrations by @belle.wuthrich have a futuristic feel that perfectly suit the book, help break up the text and highlight the sidebars of information. It features individuals who are trailblazers in the tech world but also young inventors spearheading future change. I found the author’s writing extremely accessible, and there were many ideas and things to think about.
I would highly recommend this book for middle-grade nonfiction collections, and I’ll be checking out the rest of this series.
Did you know there are devices that attach to the head that can interface with the brain and help people with disabilities move and communicate more efficiently? Do you know about the Holy Dress, a wearable lie detector that shocks a person if they lie? How about a prosthetic limb that shoots glitter?
I had never heard of the term “wearable” until I opened this book, which is part of the Orca Think series that encourages kids to ask questions about their world and take action towards a better future. Wearables are technological devices that are on, in, or attached to the body. This book not only introduces us to many creative and innovative ideas but also challenges young readers to ask the tough questions regarding the ethics of issues such as tracking personal data, growing replacement organs, and changing how we live in the real world. The bold illustrations by @belle.wuthrich have a futuristic feel that perfectly suit the book, help break up the text and highlight the sidebars of information. It features individuals who are trailblazers in the tech world but also young inventors spearheading future change. I found the author’s writing extremely accessible, and there were many ideas and things to think about.
I would highly recommend this book for middle-grade nonfiction collections, and I’ll be checking out the rest of this series.
September 22, 2022
Superpower?: The Wearable-Tech Revolution brings to life the exciting possibilities and the potential downsides, including ethical implications, safety and risks, of wearable technology. The author, Elaine Kachala, explains the complexity of wearable-technology in an engaging way that is supported by research findings and the experience of innovators and entrepreneurs. There is also a strong and diverse youth voice and presence throughout the book. This is a great STEM / STEAM book which inspires young readers to learn what it would be like to be a scientist, designer or innovator and to think deeply about inventions and potential implications beyond a finished product. I really liked the "Move Slow and Think Human" sidebars throughout the book - these orange boxes profiled important critical questions for individual pondering or lively group discussions. The great pictures and illustrations throughout the book added to the page-turning enjoyment. This book was received as an Advanced Review Copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2022
Superpower? is an excellent and very informative middle-grade book about inventors working on the latest wearable technologies. It’s written in a fun and engaging way that will help kids discover how wearables can help people survive and thrive and the challenges and ethics surrounding this next tech frontier. The book helps kids to consider wearables' pros and cons and encourages them to be smarter technology users and creators. I love the author's sidebars called CAUTION! Move Slow & Think Human because they help readers pause and think about the pros and cons of technology. This book was received as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2022
Superpower? The Wearable-Tech Revolution presents sophisticated, exciting technology while asking serious ethical questions about this evolving science. Elaine Kachala engages the reader with highly relatable accounts of current-day wearables and future devices already under development. For example, Kachala encourages readers to consider today’s amazing Brain-Computer Interfaces. BCIs enable people born with complex disabilities to control devices—wheelchairs, prosthetic limbs, even gaming keyboards—using just their thoughts. BCIs, Kachala points out, have the potential to replace interfaces in all our daily lives, like keyboards, mice, and remotes. But she challenges the reader to consider the ethics of companies potentially selling data derived from decoding our thoughts. The risk is real, Kachala explains. Some companies are currently ‘researching how BCIs can read brain activity and potentially even read your mind.’ BCIs are already being used ‘as a tool to understand consumers’ emotional states when viewing different products.’ Throughout the book, Kachala ignites interest and excitement as she describes current and evolving uses of wearables that are already helping people improve their lives. At every step, she also challenges readers to think critically about the potential dark side of the technology. The book is not alarmist, however. Kachala takes care to bring well-vetted research to every page. She highlights information, perspectives, and photos drawn from interviews with the scientists who pioneered and continue to develop wearable technology. She also introduces scientists working on guidelines for its safe development and ethical use. The book’s final chapter focuses on that very question, asking: How do we design responsible technology? It ends by challenging readers to brainstorm their own ideas for wearable tech, with steps that ensure they consider not just amazing designs and benefits, but also potential harms and how to avoid them. This book will be of high interest to kids whose daily lives already rely on wearables for communication, activity tracking, reminders, and more. It will be an eye-opener for both kids and parents who may not be aware of the direction we’re all headed in as wearables evolve. I highly recommend the book as an engaging read and as an important discussion starter at home and in the classroom. This book was received as an Advanced Review Copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 23, 2022
Superpower?: The Wearable-Tech Revolution by Elaine Kachala is an illustrated nonfiction book for middle grade readers that explores the history, development, applications and ethics of wearable technology. Wearable technology is all the rage these days and this wonderful book will help kids to gain the information they need to get inspired and to change the future. Your little electronics enthusiasts will also get to meet the inventors, designers, engineers, scientists and young people navigating the future of technology and fashion.
Wearables are electronic technology or devices that can be worn on, or attached to, our bodies. We can also implant them inside our bodies. For centuries people have imagined ways to augment their abilities, like with eyeglasses in the 13th century. But the use of modern wearable computing devices to boost our abilities began in the 1960s. Now they’re becoming mainstream! People can check messages, listen to music, or even monitor health conditions. In a time when consumer electronics are becoming smaller and seamlessly integrated into our lives, it is important to understand how technology can improve and augment your lifestyle and the risks. Who are the people involved in developing and implementing wearable technology? Who sets the wearable technology standards? What are the benefits of wearable technology in healthcare? What are the dangers of wearable technology? How can we design wearables responsibly? The book highlights how wearable computing is already changing our lives. Kids will learn about the hardware and software that make wearable technology possible, and the future of wearable technology.
The book covers the rapidly expanding development of wearable systems, thus enabling clinical and medical applications, such as disease management and rehabilitation. Final chapters discuss the challenges inherent to these rapidly evolving technologies. Easy-to-read text, vivid images, and helpful back matter give readers a clear look at this subject. Features include a table of contents, infographics, a glossary, additional resources, and an index.
Wearables are electronic technology or devices that can be worn on, or attached to, our bodies. We can also implant them inside our bodies. For centuries people have imagined ways to augment their abilities, like with eyeglasses in the 13th century. But the use of modern wearable computing devices to boost our abilities began in the 1960s. Now they’re becoming mainstream! People can check messages, listen to music, or even monitor health conditions. In a time when consumer electronics are becoming smaller and seamlessly integrated into our lives, it is important to understand how technology can improve and augment your lifestyle and the risks. Who are the people involved in developing and implementing wearable technology? Who sets the wearable technology standards? What are the benefits of wearable technology in healthcare? What are the dangers of wearable technology? How can we design wearables responsibly? The book highlights how wearable computing is already changing our lives. Kids will learn about the hardware and software that make wearable technology possible, and the future of wearable technology.
The book covers the rapidly expanding development of wearable systems, thus enabling clinical and medical applications, such as disease management and rehabilitation. Final chapters discuss the challenges inherent to these rapidly evolving technologies. Easy-to-read text, vivid images, and helpful back matter give readers a clear look at this subject. Features include a table of contents, infographics, a glossary, additional resources, and an index.
August 13, 2022
This book was received as an Advance Review Copy, in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the visual design of Super Power? The Wearable-Tech Revolution. The bright colours, photos and illustrations really work together to make learning about new technology a fun and upbeat experience. The author provides a thorough coverage of wearable tech that is available now, under development and possible in the future. The content is well supported by research, including input from many experts and pioneers in the field. Real-world designers, engineers and users speak to their inventions and experiences, bringing the subject to life and emphasizing that wearable tech is here now!
Throughout the book, the author challenges readers to think critically about the implications and potential downsides of emerging developments in wearable tech. The final chapter goes a huge step further, providing tools and frameworks for managing risk through a responsible and inclusive design process. It addresses the importance of user empathy as well as the support of protective laws and policies. It gets readers who are aspiring future tech designers thinking ahead to the broader picture of responsible tech design. It also stimulates potential consumers of wearable tech to consider what they should be demanding from its designers and marketers.
I found Super Power? The Wearable-Tech Revolution an engaging and informative read. As an engineer and marketer of new technologies, chapter five really resonated with me. It delivers a compelling call to action, while providing young readers with concrete help to get going in the right direction.
I loved the visual design of Super Power? The Wearable-Tech Revolution. The bright colours, photos and illustrations really work together to make learning about new technology a fun and upbeat experience. The author provides a thorough coverage of wearable tech that is available now, under development and possible in the future. The content is well supported by research, including input from many experts and pioneers in the field. Real-world designers, engineers and users speak to their inventions and experiences, bringing the subject to life and emphasizing that wearable tech is here now!
Throughout the book, the author challenges readers to think critically about the implications and potential downsides of emerging developments in wearable tech. The final chapter goes a huge step further, providing tools and frameworks for managing risk through a responsible and inclusive design process. It addresses the importance of user empathy as well as the support of protective laws and policies. It gets readers who are aspiring future tech designers thinking ahead to the broader picture of responsible tech design. It also stimulates potential consumers of wearable tech to consider what they should be demanding from its designers and marketers.
I found Super Power? The Wearable-Tech Revolution an engaging and informative read. As an engineer and marketer of new technologies, chapter five really resonated with me. It delivers a compelling call to action, while providing young readers with concrete help to get going in the right direction.
October 16, 2022
Superpower? The Wearable-Tech Revolution is a thorough and thoughtful study of the exciting convergence of technology and humanity! What makes this book so exceptional is that its language, striking illustrations and formatting target a younger reading audience yet the content will enlighten any adult reader as well! The “Move Slow + Think Human” segments prompt a deeper consideration of the ethical implications created by the incredibly fast-paced evolution of wearable technology. In addition to profiling brilliant innovators of all ages Kachala’s book specifically shines a light on young inventors and designers modelling and inspiring the next generation to explore and examine the infinite possibilities of this “brave new world”. Each chapter is well-researched, thoroughly supported and documented by the work of exciting change-makers in the realms of engineering, research and design. The STEM focus of the book is complemented by the very real connections tech advancement has to social justice, representation, equity and diversity. This book comes with a phenomenal Teacher’s Guide which includes rich and educational Activities and Discussion Questions. As a parent and an educator I strongly recommend this book to students of all ages for its fresh yet grounded perspective that we should all be entering the world of new tech with optimism and careful reflection. (This book was received as an Advanced Review Copy in exchange for an honest review.)
October 17, 2022
Superpower? The Wearable-Tech Revolution is an engaging and accessible non-fiction book for middle grade readers. It’s the latest in the Orca Think line, a collection of books that “encourages young readers to question, connect, and take action for a better future.”
Elaine Kachala has obviously done a mountain of research here, and she presents her findings clearly in “byte-sized” segments that explore topics and examples from those with which young readers will likely have first-hand experience (see Pokemon Go) to others that will fire their imagination (gravity jet suits!!)
My favourite aspect, however, is how the book encourages in young readers the superpower of critical thinking (“What if technology helps some people but not others? What if living in a virtual world affects our humanity? Can innovation go too far?”) and how it ends with, not a conclusion, but a Call to Action, for readers to “Think Human,” to recognize their part in the responsible-design conversation, and to Speak Up.
Augmented with appealing photos (serious kudos to the design team here) and colourful illustrations by Belle Wuthrich, this illuminative and thought-provoking book makes a great addition to any home or school library.
Elaine Kachala has obviously done a mountain of research here, and she presents her findings clearly in “byte-sized” segments that explore topics and examples from those with which young readers will likely have first-hand experience (see Pokemon Go) to others that will fire their imagination (gravity jet suits!!)
My favourite aspect, however, is how the book encourages in young readers the superpower of critical thinking (“What if technology helps some people but not others? What if living in a virtual world affects our humanity? Can innovation go too far?”) and how it ends with, not a conclusion, but a Call to Action, for readers to “Think Human,” to recognize their part in the responsible-design conversation, and to Speak Up.
Augmented with appealing photos (serious kudos to the design team here) and colourful illustrations by Belle Wuthrich, this illuminative and thought-provoking book makes a great addition to any home or school library.
September 14, 2022
As this book makes clear, the world is in the midst of huge changes as a result of technological changes. Wearable technology brings with it incredible opportunity and huge dangers. Whether we like it or not, wearable tech is going to be a huge part of the future, and so this is a very important topic to understand.
Superpower? The Wearable Tech Revolution does a great job looking at both sides. Smart glasses are one example. They have great potential with tech such as AR. On the other hand, if everyone starts wearing smart glasses, what does that do to the privacy of the people around them? Who would have access to all that data and what would they do with it? How might that change how people behave and interact? Whether we like it or not, the technology is coming. It's important that we think about the implications, which is why we need books like this.
Superpower? presents this discussion in a fun, accessible format, with lots of great pictures and illustrations. Overall this is a great book for envisioning what abilities wearable tech might give us while also asking in what ways, good and bad, that tech might change the world and us.
Superpower? The Wearable Tech Revolution does a great job looking at both sides. Smart glasses are one example. They have great potential with tech such as AR. On the other hand, if everyone starts wearing smart glasses, what does that do to the privacy of the people around them? Who would have access to all that data and what would they do with it? How might that change how people behave and interact? Whether we like it or not, the technology is coming. It's important that we think about the implications, which is why we need books like this.
Superpower? presents this discussion in a fun, accessible format, with lots of great pictures and illustrations. Overall this is a great book for envisioning what abilities wearable tech might give us while also asking in what ways, good and bad, that tech might change the world and us.
October 7, 2022
Thanks to the author for an ARC of this upcoming release.
Fascinating and detailed information is presented in such a reader-friendly and conversational way that the curious, as well as the diehard techie, will be hooked! Lots of white space, colorful photos of technology and technology in use, illustrations, charts, diagrams, and timelines break up the text and turn the words into images. Of course, there are stories about adult inventors, but the stories about middle school and high school inventors will inspire other young inventors-to-be. Although the many benefits of a wide variety of wearable technology are highlighted, the text also poses questions and tests critical thinking skills about the possible perils and limitations of technology via periodic text boxes labeled "MOVE SLOW + THINK HUMAN". Finally, Chapter Five walks readers through a design process that focuses first on empathy and understanding who will use the technology and what they need and want before creating a team to brainstorm, create, prototype, test, and refine a product. This is a great STEM, with a special call out to STEAM, guidebook.
Fascinating and detailed information is presented in such a reader-friendly and conversational way that the curious, as well as the diehard techie, will be hooked! Lots of white space, colorful photos of technology and technology in use, illustrations, charts, diagrams, and timelines break up the text and turn the words into images. Of course, there are stories about adult inventors, but the stories about middle school and high school inventors will inspire other young inventors-to-be. Although the many benefits of a wide variety of wearable technology are highlighted, the text also poses questions and tests critical thinking skills about the possible perils and limitations of technology via periodic text boxes labeled "MOVE SLOW + THINK HUMAN". Finally, Chapter Five walks readers through a design process that focuses first on empathy and understanding who will use the technology and what they need and want before creating a team to brainstorm, create, prototype, test, and refine a product. This is a great STEM, with a special call out to STEAM, guidebook.
October 6, 2022
Wearable technology that boosts human capabilities? This fascinating book delves into a topic that is relevant to everyone. While I’m familiar with smart watches and phones, this book introduced so many more technologies, smart glasses, smart shoes, robotic suits, and bionic limbs – just to name a few! While outlining the benefits that wearable technology can bring us, the author also presents the flip side, and asks an important question: how do we ensure the benefits outweigh any dangers? Sidebars titled ‘Move Slow + Think Human’ pose thought-provoking questions about wearables, such as ‘just because we can create this technology, should we’? Or ‘What if I don’t give my consent to someone tracking my information?” Featuring lots of inspiring examples of kid and youth inventors who are working in this exciting field, this book will intrigue kid as well as adult readers. I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 18, 2023
This book explores how wearable tech, such as smartwatches and smartphones but also more advanced tech like BCI's (brain controlled interfaces) like certain keyboards and smart glasses, can help people do things they have never done before. It also asks the reader to consider possible drawbacks of such technology, things like privacy, safety, ethics, and more. Chapters are well organized, text is accessible with supplemental charts and photographs. Because it is technology, it may get outdated fairly quickly but the text boxes on the sides where the author asks the reader to stop and consider a variety of things about this tech revolution (move slow & think human): just because we can, should we? are a definite plus.
September 27, 2022
As someone with a tech background, I'd recommend this book to anyone who is curious about wearable technology - regardless of their age. The book explains the various device types in an easy to understand manner and more importantly, leaves the reader with things to consider. With technology, it's important to not only appreciate the societal advancements it provides but also to pause and consider the impact on privacy and individualism. This book leaves the reader with some things to think about. Great read!
October 19, 2022
Elaine Kachala has drawn on her extensive research background to present an informative and highly readable book on this rapidly emerging topic. She includes the perspectives of foundational wearable tech researchers, as well as our young, future developers. The examples range from awe-inspiring to amusing to downright alarming; all served up with a healthy note of ethical caution. This book is targeted to young readers but I feel we can all enjoy and learn something from it.
(This book was received as an Advanced Review Copy in exchange for an honest review.)
(This book was received as an Advanced Review Copy in exchange for an honest review.)
February 5, 2023
As a STEM advocate, I absolutely loved Superpower? The Wearable-Tech Revolution. The Wearable-Tech Revolution! Elaine Kachala does a fantastic job of writing an engaging middle grade book that features inventors working on the latest wearable technologies. I appreciate the fun tone of the book and I especially love the fourth chapter entitled ‘Are We Crossing the Line?’ where she talks about the ethics of technology. This is an important topic that young readers should also think about. I highly recommend!
October 20, 2022
Diligently researched, beautifully written, eminently readable! A fascinating look at the world of wearable technology and what it offers us - both pro and con. The author discusses ethical issues one might not even think of when imagining how wearables can change our lives for the better. Colorful, eye-catching layout, illustrations and photos. Informative!! A book to be enjoyed by kids and parents alike! Treat yourself.
November 17, 2022
This is a well-written book for 9-13-year-olds on wearable technology and the ethics involved in wearing things like smart shoes, smart glasses, or a smartwatch. The author clearly defines all the terms she uses so that no reader is left behind. At the same time, she challenges young people to think about the pros and cons of devices that can track and save a lot of personal information. Highly recommended for young STEM scientists and libraries.
October 19, 2022
Easy read to understand this cool wearable technology and it's consequences. This book is informative, educational on how these wearable can and are improving peoples lives. The new technology is exciting and scary at the same time.
November 3, 2022
So many interesting stories and examples of future technologies shared in a thoughtful, fun and well researched manner.
November 2, 2022
Exciting and thought-provoking.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews