WHAT IF HOBBIES AND INTERESTS WERE VALUED AGAIN?

Did America lose its knack for making things, or is there a "maker culture" revival starting? Manufacturing is the root that all other projects sprout from... even the arts! In my new graphic novel — TINKERERS — I combine graphic art with a guided tour of history and tech, exploring how to win back the knack!

Set in the near future of 2024, Tinkerers portrays a small American town whose nearby river bridge -- its lifeline to the world -- collapses one day for lack of maintenance and care. Young Danny Nakamura becomes a hero, using his tinkering skills to save a busload of kids. He then decides to go on a quest, visiting some of the smartest people in town to ask them why and how this disaster could have happened. Did the bridge's decay and collapse illustrate a decline in citizens' ability to maintain their civilization?

HOW THE COMIC WAS BORN

Some Background: I was asked by the Metals Service Center Institute to create a comic book set 20 years from now that discusses the many reasons for US industrial decline... and how it might come back. They maintain an online version on their website. Written with Jason Land, Art by Jan Feindt. Released in print form January, 2011.

STUDY GUIDE

A study guide to help individuals, students and classes appraise, understand and discuss Tinkerers is now available.

INTERESTED IN TINKERING?

Tinkerers also has a dedicated Facebook page for discussion and comments. Communicate your "like" for Tinkerers -- and tell us about your tinkering!

Also, see this Salon article about the importance of tinkering to our future. Or check out these resources for tinkerers:

SAMPLE IMAGES