From the bestselling author of Horrible Histories, named ''the outstanding children''s non-fiction author of the 20th century'' by Books For Keeps _______________ Ideal for readers aged 7+ Henri Giffard has devoted all his free time and money to inventing the first steam-driven hot air balloon. He’s determined to make mankind’s first ever-powered flight, and so in 1852 he sets off for Paris with just an urchin girl to help him. Thousands of people gather to watch the flight. Will the machine work when the weather changes – or will Henri’s dream of flying become his downfall? Terry Deary''s Victorian Tales explore the fascinating world of the Victorians, including many of the incredible achievements and breakthroughs that took place, through the eyes of children who could have lived at the time. This new edition features notes for the reader to help extend learning and exploration of the historical period. _______________ ‘Bubbling with wit, language play and robust dialogue....just the right mix of ingredients to trigger young readers'' interest in all things historical’ - Books For Keeps
The true story of the Staplehurst railway disaster, one of Victorian Britain's worst rail accidents. A crowded train ran at full speed into a section of track that had been taken up for repair. Charles Dickens, who was on board the train, fought heroically to save lives, and found time to save the handwritten manuscript of Our Mutual Friend.
It's 1838, and Patrick and Grace Leary are aboard The Sirius, set to become the first ever ship to sail from Dublin to New York using only steam power. But their cousin Ben is on board Brunel's giant steam ship the Great Western in Bristol, and he's convinced he'll be in New York before them. With fires causing havoc, Brunel getting injured and one ship running out of coal, which steam driven sea monster has the power to win this dangerous race?
From the bestselling author of Horrible Histories...In a tunnel under the Thames, an urchin named Jenny and the young Queen Victoria dream of a wonderful new idea - underground trains! Twenty years later, the dream is finally becoming a reality. However, the construction of the Underground is tearing London apart and destroying the home of Jenny and her family. When Jenny comes face-to-face with the Queen again - will she tell her about the human cost of the 'dream'? Terry Deary's Victorian Tales explore the fascinating world of the Victorians, including many of the incredible achievements and breakthroughs that took place, through the eyes of children who could have lived at the time. This new edition features notes for the reader to help extend learning and exploration of the historical period.