George Eastman’s Great Idea

On this day in 1854, George Eastman was born! Introduce a little one to George Eastman’s great idea!

It’s a Snap!
George Eastman’s First Photograph
Written by Monica Kulling
Illustrated by Bill Slavin
Hardcover | 32 pages
Ages 5-8
ISBN 978-0-88776-881-1
In 1877 in Rochester, New York, George Eastman couldn’t understand why picture-taking was so difficult. Having left school at fourteen to support his mother and two sisters, George decided to find out by making photography his hobby. He packed up glass plates, a plate holder, a tent, a heavy tripod, a thick piece of black cloth, a water jug, and chemicals and set off to take his first photograph.

Praise for It’s a Snap! George Eastman’s First Photograph:

“Monica Kulling’s charming It’s a Snap! … tells Eastman’s story with panache and Bill Slavin’s entertaining pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations push the humor up a notch. This is terrific storytelling that will work as a read aloud in any class.” – Curriculum Connections, School Library Journal

“Cameras were once huge and bulky. Then along came George Eastman, who put photography within reach of us all. Based on a true (and fascinating) story.” – Scholastic Parent & Child

“Monica Kulling and Bill Slavin offer a unique look at the interesting life and many accomplishments of George Eastman.… This book is a great way to introduce your children to the wonders of photography.” – Shutterbug Magazine

“…accessible picture book biography… The strong narrative is peppered with snappy dialogue. Bill Slavin’s pen, ink and watercolour illustrations are equally engaging. …This first book in the Great Idea Series is a picture-perfect introduction to biographies for beginning readers.” – Excellent, Resource Links