Just Like Rube Goldberg

Synopsis

Many of the books we've included have to do with people who have invented important and useful technologies. Just Like Rube Goldberg, on the other hand, is about an inventor who prided himself on creating complicated and un-useful machines. A cartoonist with an engineering degree, Rube Goldberg was astounded by inventions that he believed required maximum effort for minimal results. Many of the thousands of cartoons he produced skewered this framework, yet they still inspired his readers to think creatively about the technology in their own lives. This is a great read for students looking for the fun, quirky side of engineering.

Classroom Connection

Have students redesign a device in Rube Golberg's style