This nonfiction title explores the history of wearable technologies, offering a historical timeline, an overview of current innovations, and a vision for future directions. A well-researched range of immersive technologies are explained, from virtual reality goggles to brain computing interfaces (BCIs) and motion capture film technologies to potential mind-melding applications. Learn about innovative Canadian inventor Steven Mann and his work with digital eyeglasses and implants to help people who are blind. But how might wearing such assistive technology cross the line and raise concerns in certain situations? This Orca Think title presents a detailed examination of not only the superpower possibilities of human-machine symbiosis and how wearables can assist people, but also challenges the reader to also consider the ethics and implications involved. "Move Slow and Think Human" sidebars throughout the book encourage readers to not only celebrate technological progress but to deliberate its disadvantages, privacy and ethical issues, and impact on humanity.

Other End Matter: Glossary, Resources
Images: Colour photographs, Colour illustrations
Bibliography: No
Index: Yes

Source: Books BC - BC Books for Schools

Elaine Kachala is a health-policy researcher, writer and adviser. She has over 20 years of writing experience with health agencies. Superpower? The Wearable-Tech Revolution is her first book. She’s curious and hopeful but can’t help being a little worried about how wearables will impact our health, well-being and equity. With degrees in psychology and sociology from the University of Toronto and a master of environmental studies from York University, she brings a unique perspective to the topic. Elaine lives with her family in Toronto.

 

Elaine Kachala's profile page

Belle Wuthrich is an illustrator and designer specializing in books for young readers. Based in Vancouver, Belle has contributed to more than a dozen books for kids, a number of which have won awards or been republished internationally, including the Montaigne Medal Award–winning Eyes and Spies: How You’re Tracked and Why You Should Know and the Silver Birch Award nominee Eat Up: An Infographic Exploration of Food.

Belle Wuthrich's profile page

• Nominated, Young Readers' Choice Book Awards of British Columbia (YRCABC) Red Cedar Book Awards
• Nominated, American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books - Middle Grade
• Commended, Children’s Book Council Best STEM Books List
• Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens
• Commended, Top Grade: CanLit for the Classroom

“Will help kids discover not only how electronic wearables can help people survive and thrive, but also the challenges and ethics surrounding this next tech frontier.”

TEACH Magazine

“This book showcases past and present examples on how technological innovation has helped people thrive in our daily life accompanied by beautiful illustrations and questions on ethical issues on technology use... The Best STEM Books emphasize real-world issues that cross disciplinary boundaries.”

CBC/NSTA Best STEM Books Committee

“Even non-techies will be hooked, especially since the endless possibilities of wearable technology are definitely scope for the imagination.”

Children's Literature

“An accessible introduction to a complex topic…A valuable read for anyone seeing to better understand wearable technology.”

Canadian Children's Book News

“Gobsmackingly good!...If you and your kids read one nonfiction book this year, this should be it.”

Great Books for Kids Reviewed by Michelle Marcotte

“A readable guide for valuable information...Kachala presents the information skillfully for her target audience. Fun illustrations and photographs are scattered throughout the book to support the text.”

School Library Journal

“Full of information that tech savvy kids will love to explore.”

The International Educator