Title
The Wizard of Menlo Park: How Thomas Alva Edison Invented the Modern World,New
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Thomas Edisons greatest invention? His own fame.At the height of his fame Thomas Alva Edison was hailed as the Napoleon of invention and blazed in the public imagination as a virtual demigod. Starting with the first public demonstrations of the phonograph in 1878 and extending through the development of incandescent light and the first motion picture cameras, Edisons name became emblematic of all the wonder and promise of the emerging age of technological marvels.But as Randall Stross makes clear in this critical biography of the man who is arguably the most globally famous of all Americans, Thomas Edisons greatest invention may have been his own celebrity. Edison was certainly a technical genius, but Stross excavates the man from layers of mythmaking and separates his true achievements from his almost equally colossal failures. How much credit should Edison receive for the various inventions that have popularly been attributed to himand how many of them resulted from both the inspiration and the perspiration of his rivals and even his own assistants?This bold reassessment of Edisons life and career answers this and many other important questions while telling the story of how he came upon his most famous inventions as a young man and spent the remainder of his long life trying to conjure similar success. We also meet his partners and competitors, presidents and entertainers, his close friend Henry Ford, the wives who competed with his work for his attention, and the children who tried to thrive in his shadowall providing a fuller view of Edisons life and times than has ever been offered before. The Wizard of Menlo Park reveals not only how Edison worked, but how he managed his own fame, becoming the first great celebrity of the modern age.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: What is the page count of this book? A: This book has three hundred ninety-two pages. It provides a detailed biography of Thomas Edison and his inventions.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: This book is available in paperback binding. This makes it lightweight and flexible, ideal for reading.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of this book is Randall E. Stross. He offers critical insights into Edison's life and achievements.
- Q: What are the dimensions of this book? A: This book measures five point nineteen inches in length, zero point eighty-nine inches in width, and eight inches in height. These dimensions make it easy to handle.
- Q: What is the genre of this book? A: This book belongs to the biography genre. It focuses on the life and innovations of Thomas Alva Edison.
- Q: Is this book suitable for young readers? A: Yes, this book is suitable for young readers with an interest in history and inventions. However, parental guidance may enhance understanding.
- Q: How can I benefit from reading this book? A: You can gain insights into the life of Thomas Edison and the nature of innovation. It also explores the myths surrounding his achievements.
- Q: What themes are covered in this book? A: This book covers themes of innovation, celebrity, and the impact of technological advancements. It explores Edison's contributions to modern society.
- Q: Is this book a good fit for history enthusiasts? A: Yes, history enthusiasts will find this book engaging. It provides a comprehensive look at an influential figure in American history.
- Q: How should I care for this paperback book? A: Store this paperback book in a cool, dry place to prevent damage. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and moisture.
- Q: Can this book be read in one sitting? A: Yes, it can be read in one sitting if you have sufficient time. However, many readers may prefer to savor it over several sessions.
- Q: What condition is this used book in? A: This is a used book in good condition. It has been inspected for quality and is ready for reading.
- Q: What if this book arrives damaged? A: If this book arrives damaged, you should contact the seller for a return or exchange. Most sellers offer a satisfaction guarantee.
- Q: Is there a warranty for this book? A: Typically, there is no warranty for books. However, you can check with the seller for their specific return policies.
- Q: How does this biography compare to others about Edison? A: This biography offers a critical perspective that distinguishes it from others. It emphasizes Edison's celebrity as much as his inventions.