Microsoft Word - STEAM makers - Book Review.docx Education Libraries, 40:1 (2017) © Education Division, Special Library Association Book Review Maslyk, Jacie. STEAM Makers: Fostering Creativity and Innovation in the Elementary Classroom. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin, 2016. ISBN 978-1-5063-1124-1 REVIEWED BY: CELESTE MOORE, MA, MLS, CAS St. Andrew Hall Library, Syracuse, NY STEAM Makers: Fostering Creativity and Innovation in the Elementary Classroom explores this popular topic while offering fresh ways to inspire young students. Some of the ideas and activities presented could also be integrated into higher grade classrooms or even in public library settings. This book covers several subjects ranging from the history of STEM and its change into STEAM, the importance of failure, connections between STEAM and making, the concept of building, creating a network of STEAM makers and tools for anyone starting their STEAM making journey. Topics are reviewed in depth and reveal the author’s mastery of the subject area. Educators looking for a resource that can help them incorporate STEAM and makerspaces into their programs will be grateful for this resource. Dr. Jacie Maslyk, EdD, has worked as an educator for almost two decades. Her experience includes teaching in urban and suburban public schools. During this time, she has worked as a teacher, reading specialist, and in several leadership roles at the district level. In addition to her work as an educator, she has become a popular speaker who promotes STEAM instruction locally, regionally and nationally. She has served as an editorial advisor and writer for Principal Magazine. Maslyk also served as a member of the advisory board for the Mobile MAKESHOP® at the Pittsburgh Children’s Museum and the advisory committee for the Sprout Fund. Maslyk states “STEAM making is experimental and playful at times, but it connects critical academic content as well.” This book is filled with ideas to help educators and their students become successful STEAM makers. The author has written seven well-defined chapters covering the subject of STEAM making. The information is practical, and chapters include worksheets, tables, photographs, slides and QR Codes that connect readers to additional online resources. Though many important topics are covered in depth throughout the book, “Chapter 6: Network” is particularly important. In this chapter, Maslyk states “The connection between schools and communities are critical to the success of the STEAM making initiative.” Networking within the community can inspire youth to be more curious and creative. Building networks of support within the community can help learning engagement and expand opportunities for elementary students. This chapter will help teachers to explore ways to find local STEAM experts, resources and funding for STEAM maker instruction. Teachers who build strong relationships with fellow STEAM makers in their community will be more effective. The book is easy to read and is loaded with examples on how to infuse classroom learning with STEAM making activities. Educators looking for ways to enrich classroom learning can search the many ideas covered in this book. Readers will gain a better understanding of the history of STEAM making and learn resourceful ways to incorporate more active learning styles into their instruction. Education Libraries, 40:1 (2017) © Education Division, Special Library Association STEAM Makers: Fostering Creativity and Innovation in the Elementary Classroom is an essential text for teachers that want to prepare their students for real success. Maslyk has used her experience to create a book that will empower teachers to establish forward-thinking STEAM making initiatives that will drive student achievement and future success.