Great Stink: How Joseph Bazalgette Solved London's Poop Pollution Problem

In 1858, London's River Thames was full of poop and cholera was killing thousands of people. Joseph Bazalgette, an engineer, created a new sewer system to clean the river and save lives. This nonfiction picture book tells the story of Bazalgette and his engineering marvel, and offers tips for preventing pollution today.

Format: Hardback
Length: 40 pages
Publication date: 28 October 2021
Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Discover the remarkable tale of the resolute engineer who resolved London's pollution crisis in this delightful and accessible nonfiction picture book, adorned with captivating artwork by the illustrator of Queen Victoria's Bathing Machine.

In the summer of 1858, the River Thames in London emitted an unpleasant odor, causing widespread disgust. The source of this repulsive scent was alarming: the river was teeming with feces. However, the stench was merely the tip of the iceberg. Cholera outbreaks occurred periodically, claiming the lives of thousands of individuals. Could there be a connection between the foul water and the deadly disease?

One engineer, driven by a vision to transform London into a cleaner and healthier haven, emerged as the protagonist. His name was Joseph Bazalgette. His grand plan to construct a new sewer system to cleanse the river was an engineering marvel. The sewers would not only alleviate the stench but also save countless lives. There was nothing foul about that.

In addition to providing insights into the historical context of the pollution crisis, this captivating book offers practical tips for preventing pollution today. It serves as a testament to the power of one individual to make a significant impact and create positive change in the world. Whether you're a reader seeking to expand your knowledge or a young individual eager to contribute to a cleaner and happier planet, this fascinating exploration of science, history, and the indomitable human spirit will leave you impressed and astounded.

Weight: 532g
Dimension: 263 x 288 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781534449299