Emberli and David Pridham - Helping Kids Learn the Backstory of Everyday Inventions

We're Going Green! is written by Emberli and David Pridham, and part of the best-selling children's picture book series "If Not You, Then Who?" The books are designed to help kids learn the backstory of everyday inventions and realize that anyone can be an inventor. The books invite children to use their curiosity and imagination to solve the problems around them. After all, no dream is to big, no dreamer too small to make a difference. As our Authors of the Day, they tell us all about their book, We're Going Green.

Please give us a short introduction to what We're Going Green is about.

We're Going Green is Book 4 in the If Not You Then Who? Series on Inventorship. Our goal is to spark imagination and curiosity in kids by introducing them to the backstory of everyday inventions.

What inspired you to write this story? Was there anything that made you want to tackle this?

When you think about it, most of the things around us were invented very recently - something like 95% of the things we take for granted didn't even exist 100 years ago. Our belief is that anyone can be an inventor, and we want to show kids how inventors think and empower them with ways of discovering solutions for themselves. Our Young Inventor's Journal teaches them an actual process for inventing, and gives them a series of 14 challenges that let them practice the skills. If they want, they can join our free Young Inventors Club and continue to develop their skills in a kid-friendly community.

Why is it so important to you to inspire children to become inventors?

We think that one of the everyday challenges that kids and families care about is climate change. Most of the time, climate change feels like way too big a problem for individuals and families to undertake. It can definitely seem overwhelming. But we think there are small things that families can do, and if enough families implemented them, we could collectively begin to make a difference. In fact, one of my favorite parts of the book is Noah wondering whether he really could make a difference with his "one small invention", and later realizing that he absolutely could! Young as he is, his ideas have power. We want to help kids find that feeling.

Why did you pick an Inventor's Fair as the backdrop for your story?

We picked the device of the Inventor's Fair because it is similar to a Science Fair, but with an emphasis on inventions. We thought people would instantly know what it is, and have a good sense of the format. We also wanted to give Noah the challenge (and associated emotions) of preparing for his big presentation. He's nervous AND excited in equal measure. He knows he's done the hard work of researching and building his invention, and he's practiced his talk. He's gained confidence through his preparation, and he's ready, but still the butterflies are fluttering.

What makes Noah so special?

He is a curious boy, willing to take chances and stand up for the things he cares about. At this young age he's willing to put his inventions out there in the world - of course, some will work and most won't, but he'll learn to keep trying. We think lots of kids can relate to that.

Where can our readers discover more of your work or interact with you?

You can learn more about us and the If Not You Then Who Series at Ifnotyoubooks.com. We would love it if you joined our Young Inventors Club. The club offers fun challenges and prizes for children, and also resources for Educators.

Besides writing, what other secret skills do you have?

I love to Tablescape for the holidays as well as plan extravagant and fun parties. I love to make things look beautiful and to celebrate the milestones of life. My love for decorating inspired the Very Merry If Not You Then Who Christmas! title (book 5 in the series). It's all about Christmas traditions and why they are impotant. It's a really different twist on a holiday picture book.