Today would have been Alexander Graham Bell's birthday

Best remembered for inventing the telephone in 1876, did you know Alexander Graham Bell also invented the first metal detector? His metal detector was used to find bullets still lodged in the bodies of Civil War veterans. He also invented what he called a vacuum jacket (a very early respirator-type device,) which became the predecessor to the iron lung.

Did you know he introduced Helen Keller and her father to the woman who would become Helen's teacher, Anne Sullivan? Written for the middle school student, this book is great for reports.

Enslow also has an elementary title on Alexander Graham Bell. This title gives the reader an understanding of what Bell did to help deaf children, and how he helped them learn to speak.

Muhammad Ali visits elementary school in his hometown of Louisville, KY

Muhammad Ali posed for pictures with students during an appearance to promote an initiative to grow vegetable gardens at schools around the world.

This garden is a protoype for a series of "Muhammad Ali Center Peace Gardens" which will aim to teach children about nutrition and respect for different cultures.

Interested in learning more about Muhammad Ali? Enslow has books for all grade levels: elementary, middle, and high school, as well as a title discussing the Supreme Court decision over Muhammad Ali's refusal to be drafted.

Today would have been Duke Ellington's birthday

Duke Ellington ''I Live With Music''
Author: Carin T. Ford
ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-2702-2

Publication Year: 2007
Interest Level: Grades 6-up
Page Count: 128

As a composer, bandleader, and pianist, Duke Ellington topped all other jazz musicians of his day. Ellington infused the beats and the rhythms of jazz with a more classical sound and intelligence, elevating jazz to an honored status. Carin T. Ford's new biography examines the life and career of this exceptional entertainer.

On this day in history

On this day in 1947, Jackie Robinson became the first black major league baseball player when he debuted with the Brooklyn Dodgers.

On this day in history

The Civil War began as Confederate forces fired on Fort Sumter in South Carolina.

Happy Birthday Paul Robeson!

Today would have been Paul Robeson's 112th birthday!

This actor, singer, and political activist inspired a lot of people, and is still known for his unwavering stature as a champion of civil rights.

Enslow has two titles about this political activist for the elementary and middle school markets.