CCBC booklist are compiled from books we have recommended in various editions of CCBC Choices. Most of these booklists are updated annually. You can also select books from one or more booklists to create a custom list, which can also include additional books from the CCBC-Recommended Book Search.
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Erno Rubik and His Magic Cube
CCBC Review:
Growing up in Budapest in the mid-20th century, Ernő Rubik was a curious child who loved figuring out the way things worked. He studied art and architecture before becoming a teacher, building models to help his students learn about three-dimensional objects. “Would it be possible to build a big cube out of smaller cubes that moved around each other and stay connected?” Ernő decided to try. This intriguing look at Rubik’s efforts is a wonderful account of trial-and-error and problem-solving in action. An important part of Ernő’s process was taking breaks to reflect on sticking points in his design. He would sometimes walk, finding inspiration and answers as he did. The round core at center of the cube, for example, was inspired by the way he saw water moving around pebbles in a river. More about Ernő’s “magic cube,” which is now known around the world as the Rubik’s Cube, is included in the back matter. Colorful mixed-media and collage illustrations that draw on the Rubik’s Cube and Ernő’s life for inspiration are an engaging accompaniment to the narrative. ©2025 Cooperative Children’s Book Center
Illustrated by Kara Kramer
CCBC Age Recommendation: Ages 7-10
Age Range:
PreK-Early Elementary (Ages 4-7)
Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-10)
Formats:
Biography, Autobiography and Memoir
Picture book
Subjects:
Biography
Creativity
Inventing and Inventors
Problem-Solving
On CCBC Booklists:
Literary Science 1: K-5 Mentor Texts
Game On! Books About Games and Gaming
Publisher:
Peachtree
Publish Year: 2024
Pages: 32
ISBN: 9781682636640
CCBC Location: Non-Fiction, 793 Aradhya
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Our Recommended Book Search includes access to CCBC-recommended titles based on subject headings created by our staff.
Please send questions or comments about CCBC booklists to ccbcinfo@education.wisc.edu.