Presents a few of the weird and wonderful contraptions dreamed up by eager inventors over the last 200 years.

"It's fun to spray around at parties, but did you know spray string was a mistake? Oops! Learn the story of how this accidental invention turned into something silly to play with. Simple text and fun photos prove we can create wonders from whoops-es!"-- Provided by publisher.

"They're a cool treat on a hot day, but did you know ice cream cones were first made because of a mistake? Oops! Learn the story of how this accidental invention turned into a favorite treat. Simple text and fun photos prove we can create wonders from whoops-es!"-- Provided by publisher.

"Pop! Bubble gum is a fun treat, but did you know it was first made by mistake? Oops! Learn the story of how this accidental invention turned into a favorite candy. Simple text and fun photos prove we can create wonders from whoops-es!"-- Provided by publisher.

One day, a spring fell from the desk of Richard James, an engineer and a dreamer. Its coils took a walk and so did Richard's imagination. He knew right away that he had stumbled onto something marvelous. With the help of his wife, Betty, Richard took this ordinary spring and turned it into a plaything. But it wasn't just any old trinket it was a Slinky, and it would become one of the most popular toys in American history.