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Blips on a Screen

How Ralph Baer Invented TV Video Gaming and Launched a Worldwide Obsession

Author Kate Hannigan

Illustrated by Zachariah OHora

Hardcover

$18.99 US

RH Childrens Books | Knopf Books for Young Readers

8.81"W x 11.31"H x 0.43"D (22.4 x 28.7 x 1.1 cm) | 17 oz (488 g) | 24 per carton

On sale May 03, 2022 | 48 Pages | 9780593306710

Age 4-8 years | Preschool - 3

Reading Level: Lexile AD1000L | Fountas & Pinnell S

Sales rights: World

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An engaging picture book biography based on the incredible true story of a Jewish refugee who pioneered home video games and launched a worldwide obsession.

Do you ever wonder how video gaming was invented? What came before your PlayStation or Xbox? This is the story of Ralph Baer, a refugee from Nazi Germany, who used his skills--and a lot of ingenuity and persistence--to make life a little more fun.

Television was new when Ralph returned from serving in World War II, but he didn't settle for watching TV. He knew it could be even more fun if you could play with it. He tinkered and tested, got help and rejected, but with perseverance and skill, he made his vision come true! This is the inspiring story of a fearless inventor who made TV video games a reality.

NOMINEE | 2025
Illinois Reader's Choice - Bluestem Award

Kate Hannigan View titles by Kate Hannigan

Zachariah OHora is an award winning illustrator and author. His work has appeared in numerous publications, including the New York Times, the Atlantic, and Bloomberg Business Week, and on posters and record covers. He lives and works in Narberth, Pennsylvania, with his wife and sons. View titles by Zachariah OHora

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Awards

NOMINEE | 2025
Illinois Reader's Choice - Bluestem Award

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