Welcome to our world of illustrated kids' books celebrating women in science! These captivating and educational stories introduce young readers to the remarkable lives and achievements of pioneering women who have made significant contributions to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Through engaging narratives and vibrant illustrations, these books inspire curiosity, empower young minds, and break gender stereotypes. Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery, highlighting the extraordinary accomplishments of women scientists and inspiring the next generation of innovators.
Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13" by Helaine Becker (Published: 2018)
Summary: Katherine Johnson, a brilliant mathematician, played a crucial role in NASA's Apollo 13 mission.
Why it's great: It highlights Johnson's remarkable calculations and problem-solving skills, inspiring young readers interested in math and space exploration.
The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian's Art Changed Science" by Joyce Sidman (Published: 2018)
Summary: This book explores the life and contributions of Maria Merian, a pioneering entomologist and scientific illustrator.
Why it's great: It celebrates Merian's scientific observations and artistic talent, emphasizing the importance of accurate visual representation in science.
Queen of Physics: How Wu Chien Shiung Helped Unlock the Secrets of the Atom" by Teresa Robeson (Published: 2019)
Summary: Wu Chien Shiung, a remarkable physicist, made significant contributions to the field of nuclear physics.
Why it's great: It sheds light on Shiung's groundbreaking work and challenges stereotypes, emphasizing the accomplishments of an influential female physicist.
Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine by Laurie Wallmark (Published: 2015) Summary: Ada Lovelace, a mathematician and writer, made significant contributions to computer programming in the 19th century.
Why it's great: It introduces children to Lovelace's pioneering work and emphasizes the importance of women in the history of computing.
The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin" by Julia Finley Mosca (Published: 2017)
Summary: This book explores the life and achievements of Dr. Temple Grandin, a renowned advocate for autism and animal behavior expert.
Why it's great: It promotes understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity while celebrating Grandin's achievements in animal science.
Rachel Carson and Her Book That Changed the World by Laurie Lawlor (Published: 2012) Summary: This book explores the life and work of Rachel Carson, a marine biologist and environmentalist who wrote the influential book "Silent Spring.
Why it's great: It emphasizes Carson's dedication to environmental conservation and highlights the power of written words to inspire change.
Who Says Women Can't Be Doctors?: The Story of Elizabeth Blackwell by Tanya Lee Stone (Published: 2013)
Summary: Elizabeth Blackwell defied societal norms to become the first female physician in the United States.
Why it's great: It challenges gender stereotypes and encourages girls to pursue their dreams, regardless of societal expectations.
Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code by Laurie Wallmark (Published: 2017)
Summary: Grace Hopper was a pioneering computer scientist and mathematician who revolutionized computer programming languages.
Why it's great: It showcases Hopper's innovative contributions to computer science and encourages girls to pursue STEM fields.
The Doctor with an Eye for Eyes: The Story of Dr. Patricia Bath by Julia Finley Mosca (Published: 2017)
Summary: Dr. Patricia Bath overcame obstacles to become an ophthalmologist and invented a groundbreaking device for cataract surgery.
Why it's great: It showcases perseverance, innovation, and the importance of representation in the medical field.
Counting the Stars: The Story of Katherine Johnson, NASA Mathematician" by Lesa Cline-Ransome (Published: 2019)
Summary: Katherine Johnson, an African-American mathematician, played a crucial role in NASA's space program, including calculating trajectories for space missions.
Why it's great: It highlights Johnson's extraordinary mathematical skills, perseverance, and the importance of diversity in STEM fields.
Marie Curie by Demi (Published: 2018)
Summary: This book delves into the life and achievements of Marie Curie, a physicist and chemist who conducted pioneering research on radioactivity.
Why it's great: It highlights Curie's groundbreaking scientific discoveries and the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field.
Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean's Most Fearless Scientist" by Jess Keating (Published: 2017)
Summary: Eugenie Clark overcame societal expectations to become a renowned marine biologist and shark expert.
Why it's great: It highlights Clark's determination, love for marine life, and challenges the notion that certain fields are only for men.
Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed (Published: 2018)
Summary: This book tells the inspiring story of Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman to travel in space.
Why it's great: It encourages children to dream big and pursue their aspirations, promoting representation and diversity in space exploration.
Mary Anning and the Sea Dragon by Jeannine Atkins (Published: 2017)
Summary: Mary Anning, a paleontologist in the 19th century, made significant discoveries in the field of paleontology, including the first complete Ichthyosaur skeleton.
Why it's great: It introduces children to the world of paleontology and showcases Anning's contributions, overcoming gender and societal barriers.
The Girl Who Named Pluto: The Story of Venetia Burney by Alice B. McGinty (Published: 2019)
Summary: Venetia Burney, an 11-year-old girl, suggested the name "Pluto" for the newly discovered ninth planet in our solar system.
Why it's great: It highlights Burney's curiosity and contribution to astronomy, inspiring young readers to pursue their interests in space science.
Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly (Published: 2018)
Summary: This book tells the incredible true story of four African-American women mathematicians who played vital roles in NASA during the space race.
Why it's great: It sheds light on the often overlooked contributions of women of color in the STEM field and inspires young readers to pursue their passions in science and mathematics.
Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World by Rachel Ignotofsky (Published: 2016)
Summary: This book profiles 50 remarkable women from various scientific fields throughout history, highlighting their accomplishments and contributions.
Why it's great: It provides an overview of diverse women in science, features engaging illustrations, and offers bite-sized stories that inspire and inform young readers.
Hedy Lamarr's Double Life: Hollywood Legend and Brilliant Inventor by Laurie Wallmark (Published: 2019)
Summary: This book reveals the lesser-known side of iconic actress Hedy Lamarr, who was also a brilliant inventor and contributed to the development of modern wireless technology. Why it's great: It showcases Lamarr's multi-faceted talents, challenges stereotypes, and introduces children to the intersection of entertainment and science.
Maria Sibylla Merian: Artist, Scientist, Adventurer by Sarah B. Pomeroy (Published: 2018) Summary: This book explores the life and achievements of Maria Sibylla Merian, a pioneering entomologist and botanical artist.
Why it's great: It showcases Merian's artistic and scientific talents, introducing children to the world of insects and nature observation.
The Girl with a Mind for Math: The Story of Raye Montague by Julia Finley Mosca (Published: 2018)
ummary: Raye Montague overcame gender and racial barriers to become a pioneering computer scientist and naval engineer.
Why it's great: It highlights Montague's determination, problem-solving skills, and perseverance, inspiring young readers interested in STEM fields.
Mary Anning and the Sea Dragon by Jeannine Atkins (Published: 2017)
Summary: Mary Anning, a paleontologist in the 19th century, made significant discoveries in the field of paleontology, including the first complete Ichthyosaur skeleton.
Why it's great: It introduces children to the world of paleontology and showcases Anning's contributions, overcoming gender and societal barriers.
The Astronaut With a Song for the Stars: The Story of Dr. Ellen Ochoa by Julia Finley Mosca (Published: 2020)
Summary: This book explores the life of Dr. Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic female astronaut and a renowned scientist and inventor.
Why it's great: It celebrates Ochoa's groundbreaking achievements, promotes diversity in space exploration, and encourages children to reach for the stars.
She Persisted in Science: Brilliant Women Who Made a Difference (Published: March 1, 2022)
Summary: It is a picture book that celebrates the accomplishments of remarkable women who have made significant contributions to the field of science. Through concise narratives, it highlights the stories of various trailblazing women scientist.
Why it's great: This book presents the stories of these extraordinary women in an accessible and inspiring manner, making them relatable to young readers. It emphasizes the importance of perseverance, determination, and resilience in overcoming challenges faced by women in the scientific world. The book promotes gender equality in STEM fields and encourages young readers, particularly girls, to pursue their passions in science.
These books are great because they introduce children to the remarkable achievements of women in science, highlighting their contributions and breaking gender stereotypes. They inspire curiosity, perseverance, and a love for learning, while also promoting diversity and inclusivity in the STEM fields. These stories serve as empowering role models for children, encouraging them to follow their dreams and make a difference in the world through science and exploration.
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