Long before highways stretched across countries and families piled into cars for road trips, people traveled by foot, horse, and wagon. Then came an invention so strange and noisy that many doubted it would ever last: the horseless carriage. What began as clunky experiments in workshops soon grew into one of the most important inventions in history-the automobile.

This book takes readers on a journey through the fascinating story of how cars came to be. From the early challenges of powering wheels without horses, to the daring inventors who tested steam, gasoline, and electricity, young readers will discover how curiosity and creativity reshaped the world. They'll meet pioneers like Karl Benz and Bertha Benz, explore the rise of racing and road trips, and see how cars transformed towns, families, and even the way people lived.

Written in a lively, conversational style for ages 7 to 12, this book connects history to innovation in a way that's easy to understand and exciting to follow. It's not just about machines-it's about bold ideas, problem-solving, and the spirit of invention that still drives progress today. The story of the first cars isn't just about the past-it's the beginning of a journey that continues on the roads of the future.