He was one of history's greatest inventors, but before the world knew his name, he was simply a boy full of questions, mistakes, and big dreams. This book brings to life the early years of Thomas Edison, showing kids that even geniuses start small-and often as the "troublemaker" in class. From his childhood in Ohio, where his endless curiosity drove teachers crazy, to the encouragement he found at home with his mother, readers will see how his love of books, tinkering, and experiments shaped his future. Along the way, there are stories of both triumph and disaster-like the time his chemistry set nearly burned down a train car, or when he lost jobs because he was too busy experimenting to follow the rules. Yet through every setback, he refused to give up. Kids will discover how persistence, hard work, and curiosity helped transform a boy who struggled in school into a young telegraph operator inventing gadgets to make his work faster and better. His journey is a reminder that mistakes can be powerful teachers, and that resilience matters as much as ideas. Perfect for readers ages 7-12, this inspiring story shows how curiosity and determination can open doors to extraordinary possibilities.