The ten Americans profiled in this book may not be familiar to some people, but their inventions certainly are. Author Laura S. Jeffrey, who personally interviewed these inventors and/or their survivors, acquaints us with these ten creative and determined people whose accomplishments advanced technology, and thus improved the way of life for many. Profiles of William Lear, Philo Farnsworth, Beatrice Kenner, Gertrude Belle Elion, Gordon Gould, Charles Ginsburg, Robert Shurney, Jack Kilby, Stephanie Kwolek, and Lonnie Johnson are featured.