"Geeks aren't born, they're made... and here's the instruction manual." —
Wired Magazine Fun How-To, DIY projects and activities to teach kids STEM & STEAM fundamentals and spark curiosity through play!Unlock the power of
hands-on learning with
Howtoons—an award-winning, comic-style guide that blends storytelling, science, and engineering. Perfect for
homeschooling families,
Montessori-inspired classrooms, and
STEM/STEAM-focused classrooms, this book features
50+ exciting, kid-tested projects that transform everyday household items into engaging learning adventures.
Join siblings Celine and Tucker as they're challenged to “make something other than trouble”—sparking a journey of discovery through
play-based learning, critical thinking, and creativity. Each project is packed with real-life science and engineering principles designed to inspire
gifted learners (GATE students) and curious minds alike.
Whether you're teaching
physics through paper rockets, exploring
kinetic energy with DIY toys, or promoting
independent thinking through tinkering,
Howtoons is your go-to resource for turning trash into tools and ideas into action.
This unique collection of projects empowers children to:
- Build and invent using recycled and household materials
- Understand real engineering and science principles
- Explore STEAM learning through comics, art, and play
- Foster independence, problem-solving, and creative thinking
- Engage in project-based learning ideal for co-ops and family units
Why trust Howtoons? Author
Dr. Saul Griffith is a globally recognized
engineer, inventor, and
STEAM education advocate. He holds a Ph.D. from MIT in materials science and information theory, and has led cutting-edge research for
NASA,
DARPA,
ARPA-E, and the
National Science Foundation. He is also the founder of
Rewiring America, a nonprofit focused on climate solutions through electrification and education. His companies—including
Instructables.com,
Makani Power, and
Otherlab—reflect a lifelong commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Select praise for HOWTOONS: “This is a great addition to STEM collections, maker spaces, and elementary- through middle-school graphic-novel collections.” -
Booklist "Fine, fabulous stuff" -
School Library Journal "...perfectly tuned to inspire creativity as well as promote good work habits in budding inventors and mechanical engineers alike." -
Kirkus Review "Geeks aren't born, they're made... and here's the instruction manual." -
Wired Magazine 
