Huge thanks to @uoftsr for the opportunity to host a booth at the annual University of Toronto Science Rendezvous! This year’s theme was IGNITE! My booth, Igniting Curiosity with STEAM Nonfiction: From Books to Building Homes for All, featured my new book— Building Homes for All: Technology for a Fair and Green Planet .

Want innovative ideas for sustainable housing? Ask kids! I was blown away by their responses to the “Question Sparks” & “Career Sparks” activities. Here’s a glimpse of their creativity:

“What new invention could help fight climate change on construction sites?”
→ “A giant, solar-powered air purifier that absorbs unhealthy gases.”

“How would you design a home that helps a planet?”
→One student sketched a home built with oxygen atoms!

"What career would you choose and why?"
→ "A scientist who invents eco-friendly materials because I want to make a difference."

STEAM books are true fire-starters—sparking curiosity, big questions, and real-world problem-solving. They show kids that even complex challenges have solutions—and their ideas matter. Perhaps these books will even inspire them to pursue a STEAM career!