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The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything: The Story of Maria Mitchell
Perfect for fans of STEM, this inspiring picture book biography tells the extraordinary story of pioneering astronomer Maria Mitchell. Maria longed to travel beyond her small island of Nantucket. But she wasn’t sure how. Her father taught her to look to the stars for guidance. If you knew how to read them, he said, the stars could tell you where you were, and where you needed to go. They spent hours scanning the night sky together through a telescope on the roof. Maria learned how to use astronomers’ tools to measure and track time by the stars. But what could she do with her skills? Then, one day, she heard that a prize was being offered to the first person to find a new comet. Could this be the opportunity she was waiting for? This absorbing picture book biography by Laura Alary tells the fascinating, though not well-known, story of a remarkable nineteenth-century woman scientist and women’s rights advocate. After winning that prize for discovering a comet, Maria Mitchell would go on to become the first professional female astronomer in the United States, first female member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and one of the first female college professors. Beautifully illustrated with lovely textured artwork by Ellen Rooney, this is a well-told story with a teachable STEM component, supporting both science and social studies curriculums, that supports a growth mindset. It’s also a wonderful guide sure to inspire readers to find their own way in the world. It includes backmatter that further describes Maria’s impressive life and achievements.
36 pages, Hardcover
First published May 3, 2022
About the author
Laura Alary
27 books33 followersMany years have passed since Laura used to make her own books with manila paper, mucilage and crayons. Nowadays her books look much more professional, but the process of creating them is as much fun as it always was!
In her writing , Laura draws upon her background in Classics, theology and biblical studies, as well as her long-standing interest in ancient history, folklore, mythology, and science.
Her books are meant to teach and to entertain, but most of all, to encourage children to wonder about the world and to ask really big questions.
Laura's books include: All the Faces of Me (Owlkids, 2023); Here: The Dot We Call Home (Paraclete Press, 2022); Sun in My Tummy (Pajama Press, 2022); The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything (Kids Can Press, 2022); Breathe: A Child's Guide to Ascension, Pentecost, and the Growing Time (Paraclete Press, 2021); What Grew in Larry's Garden (Kids Can Press, 2020); Read, Wonder, Listen: Stories from the Bible for Young Readers (Wood Lake Books, 2018); Look! A Child's Guide to Advent and Christmas (Paraclete Press, 2017); Make Room: A Child's Guide to Lent and Easter (Paraclete Press, 2016); How Do I Pray for Grandpa? (CopperHouse, 2014); Mira and the Big Story (Skinner House, 2012); Victor's Pink Pyjamas (CopperHouse, 2013); Jesse's Surprise Gift (CopperHouse, 2012); and Is That Story True? (CopperHouse, 2010).
In her writing , Laura draws upon her background in Classics, theology and biblical studies, as well as her long-standing interest in ancient history, folklore, mythology, and science.
Her books are meant to teach and to entertain, but most of all, to encourage children to wonder about the world and to ask really big questions.
Laura's books include: All the Faces of Me (Owlkids, 2023); Here: The Dot We Call Home (Paraclete Press, 2022); Sun in My Tummy (Pajama Press, 2022); The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything (Kids Can Press, 2022); Breathe: A Child's Guide to Ascension, Pentecost, and the Growing Time (Paraclete Press, 2021); What Grew in Larry's Garden (Kids Can Press, 2020); Read, Wonder, Listen: Stories from the Bible for Young Readers (Wood Lake Books, 2018); Look! A Child's Guide to Advent and Christmas (Paraclete Press, 2017); Make Room: A Child's Guide to Lent and Easter (Paraclete Press, 2016); How Do I Pray for Grandpa? (CopperHouse, 2014); Mira and the Big Story (Skinner House, 2012); Victor's Pink Pyjamas (CopperHouse, 2013); Jesse's Surprise Gift (CopperHouse, 2012); and Is That Story True? (CopperHouse, 2010).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
February 21, 2022
To my utter shame, I had not heard of Maria Mitchell. So when I saw this children’s picture book dedicated to her life, I knew I had to give it a go. And what an enlightening experience it has been!
Maria Mitchell was the first professional female astronomer in the United States, the first female member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and one of the first female college professors, that too at Vassar. Society expected her to live a more traditional “womanly” life. But she was a little lucky that she was born to a Quaker family, who believed in education for all and equality of genders. Having an astronomer for a father and a librarian for a mother certainly helped Maria’s brilliance. What a loss it would have been for the world had she been part of a more orthodox family!
The book details out Maria’s life from her younger years, her scholarly and scientific achievements, and her discovery of what we today know as “Miss Mitchell’s Comet”. What I loved even more is the inclusion of practical life lessons in the author’s note. This section provides many wonderful thoughts on what lessons can be learnt from Maria’s life. How I loved this section! I wish all picture books could include something like this rather than leaving the parents/teachers to figure out the morals and messages from a book.
The illustrations are ‘out of this world’, as they need to be to depict an astronomer’s life. 😉 Blue is a dominant colour to doff a hat at the night sky and its myriad stars. The rest of the illustrations are also drawn in an appealing way, though they aren’t too vibrant, thus keeping in with the tone and time period of the story.
Though a picture book, it doesn’t speak down to its readers. There are difficult words, and very young readers might need help comprehending some of the details. But to the right age group, this book will be inspiring.
The only area where the book could have worked better for me is in specifying the time period and Maria’s age as the story progresses. There are so many events depicted from various stages of her life, but other than a slightly more grown-up version in the illustrations, we never know how old she was when those things happened. The year in which she was born is mentioned only in the author’s note. Having a mention of this at the start would have established the time period clearly in the minds of the readers. But these are minor areas of improvement.
Overall, I adored this book and relished the opportunity to learn about one inspiring woman whom history shouldn’t forget. Heartily recommended to everyone.
4.75 stars.
My thanks to Kids Can Press and NetGalley for the DRC of “The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
Maria Mitchell was the first professional female astronomer in the United States, the first female member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and one of the first female college professors, that too at Vassar. Society expected her to live a more traditional “womanly” life. But she was a little lucky that she was born to a Quaker family, who believed in education for all and equality of genders. Having an astronomer for a father and a librarian for a mother certainly helped Maria’s brilliance. What a loss it would have been for the world had she been part of a more orthodox family!
The book details out Maria’s life from her younger years, her scholarly and scientific achievements, and her discovery of what we today know as “Miss Mitchell’s Comet”. What I loved even more is the inclusion of practical life lessons in the author’s note. This section provides many wonderful thoughts on what lessons can be learnt from Maria’s life. How I loved this section! I wish all picture books could include something like this rather than leaving the parents/teachers to figure out the morals and messages from a book.
The illustrations are ‘out of this world’, as they need to be to depict an astronomer’s life. 😉 Blue is a dominant colour to doff a hat at the night sky and its myriad stars. The rest of the illustrations are also drawn in an appealing way, though they aren’t too vibrant, thus keeping in with the tone and time period of the story.
Though a picture book, it doesn’t speak down to its readers. There are difficult words, and very young readers might need help comprehending some of the details. But to the right age group, this book will be inspiring.
The only area where the book could have worked better for me is in specifying the time period and Maria’s age as the story progresses. There are so many events depicted from various stages of her life, but other than a slightly more grown-up version in the illustrations, we never know how old she was when those things happened. The year in which she was born is mentioned only in the author’s note. Having a mention of this at the start would have established the time period clearly in the minds of the readers. But these are minor areas of improvement.
Overall, I adored this book and relished the opportunity to learn about one inspiring woman whom history shouldn’t forget. Heartily recommended to everyone.
4.75 stars.
My thanks to Kids Can Press and NetGalley for the DRC of “The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
May 10, 2022
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
The Astronomer who Questioned Everything is a beautifully illustrated and interesting read for children about the famous female astronomer Maria Mitchell. This book is a short biography of her life and achievements over her lifetime from childhood to adulthood. This book is so inspirational especially to females. What made this book different to most was the way the author included practical life lessons that can be taken from and learned from Maria's life. This was a great little area at the back of the book! The illustrations are very befitting for the story and this is sure to be a book that catches the eye of many children.
The Astronomer who Questioned Everything is a beautifully illustrated and interesting read for children about the famous female astronomer Maria Mitchell. This book is a short biography of her life and achievements over her lifetime from childhood to adulthood. This book is so inspirational especially to females. What made this book different to most was the way the author included practical life lessons that can be taken from and learned from Maria's life. This was a great little area at the back of the book! The illustrations are very befitting for the story and this is sure to be a book that catches the eye of many children.
February 26, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ -- How cute is that cover?!
Everything about this book was amazing! From the beautiful illustrations to the engaging way the story was told. I had never heard of Maria Mitchell before reading this book (much to my embarrassment), but she is certainly someone whose name and achievements should be more well known. I could see this book being a great addition to any child's library, or as a great resource for homeschoolers.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
February 17, 2022
Thank you, Kids Can Press, for the advance reading copy.
This storybook is phenomenal.
The illustrations, the storytelling, the writing and the presentation everything clicked.
Please mark the date. And yes keep this one as a collectible. Kids will get motivated. Parents will get enlightened. Teachers will get happier reading this book out loud. A must keep.
This storybook is phenomenal.
The illustrations, the storytelling, the writing and the presentation everything clicked.
Please mark the date. And yes keep this one as a collectible. Kids will get motivated. Parents will get enlightened. Teachers will get happier reading this book out loud. A must keep.
August 23, 2022
The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything is a gorgeous little introduction to the life on nineteenth century astronomer Maria Mitchell. We get some great details about the time period, her life, and the science of astronomy (plus navigation). I was worried that it was being a bit unfavourable towards women's work, but it also shows Mitchell coming to value those skills in different ways too which I liked a lot. The art is also very lovely. Overall it's a great picture book biography for kids interested in history or science and I would recommend it.
April 3, 2022
In this book, we learn the story of Maria Mitchell, a little girl whose love for adventure, mathematics and the universe itself, led her to discover her very own comet.
We follow her from a very young age and we see the seeds that eventually led to her discovery, being planted. And we take a look into her life when she discovers a comet and when she also becomes a teacher, one of the first to advocate for the education of both boys and girls.
I am going to admit that this particular book, was actually educational for me as well, since I had no idea who Marie Mitchell was! Imagine my surprise when I found out that she was a real life astronomer (who, of course, isn't really mentioned in our history books. I wonder why. Could it be because of her gender?)
So, I believe that of course, this will be educational for the target audience as well.
I loved the way it was written, the simple language, the beautiful illustrations and the whole sentiment/moral of the story: "Women can do the same things as men, when given the opportunity and the right tools" & "Enthusiasm and patience will help you achieve great things."
I recommend this to parents/caregivers/teachers who want to read to kids something that is both sweet and will help them learn about some real life history.
If you made it this far, congratulations!
'Til next time, take care :) :) :)
I received a free e-book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
We follow her from a very young age and we see the seeds that eventually led to her discovery, being planted. And we take a look into her life when she discovers a comet and when she also becomes a teacher, one of the first to advocate for the education of both boys and girls.
I am going to admit that this particular book, was actually educational for me as well, since I had no idea who Marie Mitchell was! Imagine my surprise when I found out that she was a real life astronomer (who, of course, isn't really mentioned in our history books. I wonder why. Could it be because of her gender?)
So, I believe that of course, this will be educational for the target audience as well.
I loved the way it was written, the simple language, the beautiful illustrations and the whole sentiment/moral of the story: "Women can do the same things as men, when given the opportunity and the right tools" & "Enthusiasm and patience will help you achieve great things."
I recommend this to parents/caregivers/teachers who want to read to kids something that is both sweet and will help them learn about some real life history.
If you made it this far, congratulations!
'Til next time, take care :) :) :)
I received a free e-book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 2, 2021
A high-achieving book about a high-achieving woman, who grew from a Quaker family in Nantucket to become a Vassar professor of astronomy – even when the restrictions of the day said female students should never be abroad at night. It might not be the first or best book about Maria Mitchell, but it was my first, and so I am very glad to know her story, and this will easily fit on copious school shelves – without gathering dust on them, either. A strong four stars.
Read
December 22, 2022I'm delighted to see that there are several books aimed at young readers that are bringing to the foreground stories of women, minorities, and other "atypical" scientists to the front and center.
Alary tells the story of Maria Mitchell, a woman from Nantucket who--as a girl-- was very focused on mathematics and astronomy. She heard about a prize awarded to anyone who could discover a new comet. Through grit, determination, and ingenuity, she repaired an old telescope and then found a comet! She ended up traveling to Europe and meeting with other astronomers, despite the criticism she received for being a woman.
Ellen Rooney provides delightful illistrations that look like paper cut outs, which give the images a 3-D quality even on a 2D surface.
The back matter discusses broader issues of women's rights but also includes a list of resources (books) about Mitchell.
The book is written to the level for young readers about ages 8 to 12, but I would read it aloud to younger readers, and as a middle-aged woman, I learned a great deal! I love nonfiction children's literature. It serves as a great passageway to additional learning for children (and their teachers, librarians, parents, and grandparents).
Alary tells the story of Maria Mitchell, a woman from Nantucket who--as a girl-- was very focused on mathematics and astronomy. She heard about a prize awarded to anyone who could discover a new comet. Through grit, determination, and ingenuity, she repaired an old telescope and then found a comet! She ended up traveling to Europe and meeting with other astronomers, despite the criticism she received for being a woman.
Ellen Rooney provides delightful illistrations that look like paper cut outs, which give the images a 3-D quality even on a 2D surface.
The back matter discusses broader issues of women's rights but also includes a list of resources (books) about Mitchell.
The book is written to the level for young readers about ages 8 to 12, but I would read it aloud to younger readers, and as a middle-aged woman, I learned a great deal! I love nonfiction children's literature. It serves as a great passageway to additional learning for children (and their teachers, librarians, parents, and grandparents).
February 24, 2022
The childhood story of Maria Mitchell, was the first professional female astronomer in the U.S. How cool is that?
Maria (pronounced Ma-RYE-ah) learned by observation as a child, and her parents bestowed many good lessons in life on her. It all culminated into Maria becoming increasing fascinated with the stars, and from there, new discoveries in space. It's a fascinating story to read about, and I love how it is all packaged together in this children's picture book. Perfect to read with your littles and take in a great story from history together.
Definitely recommend! 5 star book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Maria (pronounced Ma-RYE-ah) learned by observation as a child, and her parents bestowed many good lessons in life on her. It all culminated into Maria becoming increasing fascinated with the stars, and from there, new discoveries in space. It's a fascinating story to read about, and I love how it is all packaged together in this children's picture book. Perfect to read with your littles and take in a great story from history together.
Definitely recommend! 5 star book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
March 31, 2022
“Mingle the starlight with your eyes and you won’t be fretted by trifles.”
I recently finished Maria Popova’s Figuring where I learnt about Maria Mitchell for the first time. Hers is such an interesting and fascinating story, so I was glad to find this beautifully illustrated book on Netgalley, which introduces this positive role model, this woman of firsts, to children.
The book sums up the lessons from her life for young readers in a wonderful manner — patience, practice and persistence, the benefits of boredom, to question everything and to choose your own path in life. May the book inspire more children to question everything, for that is the first step to finding the answers.
I recently finished Maria Popova’s Figuring where I learnt about Maria Mitchell for the first time. Hers is such an interesting and fascinating story, so I was glad to find this beautifully illustrated book on Netgalley, which introduces this positive role model, this woman of firsts, to children.
The book sums up the lessons from her life for young readers in a wonderful manner — patience, practice and persistence, the benefits of boredom, to question everything and to choose your own path in life. May the book inspire more children to question everything, for that is the first step to finding the answers.
June 9, 2022
An inspiring biography about Maria Mitchell, who was, among many things the first professional female astronomer in the US, a professor at Vassar, and hired by the US government to perform scientific work.
Maria was a curious, intelligent child more interested in mathematics and the stars than her needlework. And due to persistence and hard work, she achieved many things, including being the first to find a comet in the sky for a competition started by the King of Denmark.
I liked the illustrations, with their flat style and pastel-like shading.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Kids Can Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
Maria was a curious, intelligent child more interested in mathematics and the stars than her needlework. And due to persistence and hard work, she achieved many things, including being the first to find a comet in the sky for a competition started by the King of Denmark.
I liked the illustrations, with their flat style and pastel-like shading.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Kids Can Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
February 20, 2022
I love finding out about famous women who I know nothing about, and I also love it when these books are for children, so that they too will learn.
Apparently, Maria Michtell was very famous, being the first woman astronomer in the U.S., as well as one of the first female college professors. She was entirely self-taught, having read the contents of the Nantucket library when she was a librarian there.
Very enlightening picture book, and so good that her story is become available to another generation.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
Apparently, Maria Michtell was very famous, being the first woman astronomer in the U.S., as well as one of the first female college professors. She was entirely self-taught, having read the contents of the Nantucket library when she was a librarian there.
Very enlightening picture book, and so good that her story is become available to another generation.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
November 9, 2021
WHAT AN INSPIRING BOOK! This account for children of 19th century Quaker astronomer and professor Maria Mitchell foreshadowed today's "modern" STEM movement. Born in 1818 to a family that valued books, learning, and science and mathematics, this astonishing woman grew up mastering math and studying the stars. She became an acclaimed astronomer, despite the misogyny and repression common to her era, and a professor at Vassar.
Children of both genders will find much encouragement and inspiration in this special book.
Children of both genders will find much encouragement and inspiration in this special book.
February 19, 2022
Absolutely stunning! I can't believe I had never heard of Maria Mitchell before reading this, and now I'm absolutely enthralled with her. Definitely one I'm going to be adding to my personal collection!
February 8, 2024
LOVE the intertwining of practical life lessons (persistence, patience, equality) and science! 10/10 recommend
June 6, 2022
It is always good to read an educational children's book that does not seem to be educational. That is, it is so cleverly written that children are most likely not going to realize they are learning some facts and history on first take. This biographical account of Maria Mitchell's claim to fame is just such a one.
Maria's story is told in easily engaging prose, accompanied with fun, attractive illustrations, which decorate each page, bringing the story to seeming life. Maria was born and grew up in a Quaker family on Nantucket Island where she found much scope for her brilliantly, inquisitive mind. Quakers encouraged the pursuit of knowledge of the world and to enable ones own choice and independant thinking for boys as well as girls, becoming a launching pad for her fulfilling life's work.
Being born in 1818, Maria soon realized that she was like a fish swimming up a torrent of male prejudice outside the Quaker sphere of safety, where the norm was for the females to be kept very well in the kitchen and stitching in the parlor. Maria was patient and persistant and became famous for being the first female professional astronomer and to engage in several other typically male roles gaining several other firsts, which young readers will discover as they read the book.
I have clearly enjoyed reading about and learning of Maria Mitchell's story especially since it is the first time I recall having heard about her. I sure hope her story motivates and inspires other young girls to pursue with questioning minds, what the world is all about and be able to contribute to the world in constructive ways as did Maria.
~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~
February 2022
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.
Maria's story is told in easily engaging prose, accompanied with fun, attractive illustrations, which decorate each page, bringing the story to seeming life. Maria was born and grew up in a Quaker family on Nantucket Island where she found much scope for her brilliantly, inquisitive mind. Quakers encouraged the pursuit of knowledge of the world and to enable ones own choice and independant thinking for boys as well as girls, becoming a launching pad for her fulfilling life's work.
Being born in 1818, Maria soon realized that she was like a fish swimming up a torrent of male prejudice outside the Quaker sphere of safety, where the norm was for the females to be kept very well in the kitchen and stitching in the parlor. Maria was patient and persistant and became famous for being the first female professional astronomer and to engage in several other typically male roles gaining several other firsts, which young readers will discover as they read the book.
I have clearly enjoyed reading about and learning of Maria Mitchell's story especially since it is the first time I recall having heard about her. I sure hope her story motivates and inspires other young girls to pursue with questioning minds, what the world is all about and be able to contribute to the world in constructive ways as did Maria.
~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~
February 2022
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.
June 18, 2022
Children’s authors have lately taken up the task of creating the most beautiful picture book biographies about the women from history who never quite received the accolades and recognition they deserved. The Astronomer who Questioned Everything: The Story of Maria Mitchell by Laura Alary and Ellen Rooney is just that, the story of Maria Mitchell.
Before reading this story I had no clue who Maria Mitchell was and what she contributed to science and astronomy. Some of that stems from where I live. In Canada we obviously learn more about Canadians but I was very interested to learn about Ms Mitchell and her story. The story sends a powerful message to young readers to explore and question. Exploring and questioning help you determine your passions and lead you on a path to lifelong learning.
What struck me most about this story was the support Maria Mitchell received as a young woman growing up in the 1800s, a time when women were only valued for their ability to keep house and bear children. As she was a Quaker, she received many opportunities that other women in the era did not since Quakers believe in the value of educating both boys and girls equally. While being inspired by Maria Mitchell and her accomplishments it’s also important to remember the privilege she had as a white Quaker woman with a supportive family. She faced barriers based on her gender but persevered and was incredibly successful in her career, learning and understanding the importance of education as well as the arts.
Laura Alary includes an excellent author’s note at the end of the story to complement Maria’s story. There is excellent information for readers, and their adults, to guide them on their journey through life. I especially liked how she framed Maria’s privilege, showing how it contributed to her success. Also, Laura Alary shows readers how Maria used her eventual status and success to support other girls and women in her work as a librarian and professor at Vassar College.
The book is simply gorgeous! The illustrations by Ellen Rooney are divine and immersive, taking readers back to the 1800s. I love how she uses a collage style to her work creating dimension on a 2D surface. It’s the cover that immediately got my attention. Designer Barb Kelly ensures this book will jump off the shelves and will stand out among the other picture books.
Before reading this story I had no clue who Maria Mitchell was and what she contributed to science and astronomy. Some of that stems from where I live. In Canada we obviously learn more about Canadians but I was very interested to learn about Ms Mitchell and her story. The story sends a powerful message to young readers to explore and question. Exploring and questioning help you determine your passions and lead you on a path to lifelong learning.
What struck me most about this story was the support Maria Mitchell received as a young woman growing up in the 1800s, a time when women were only valued for their ability to keep house and bear children. As she was a Quaker, she received many opportunities that other women in the era did not since Quakers believe in the value of educating both boys and girls equally. While being inspired by Maria Mitchell and her accomplishments it’s also important to remember the privilege she had as a white Quaker woman with a supportive family. She faced barriers based on her gender but persevered and was incredibly successful in her career, learning and understanding the importance of education as well as the arts.
Laura Alary includes an excellent author’s note at the end of the story to complement Maria’s story. There is excellent information for readers, and their adults, to guide them on their journey through life. I especially liked how she framed Maria’s privilege, showing how it contributed to her success. Also, Laura Alary shows readers how Maria used her eventual status and success to support other girls and women in her work as a librarian and professor at Vassar College.
The book is simply gorgeous! The illustrations by Ellen Rooney are divine and immersive, taking readers back to the 1800s. I love how she uses a collage style to her work creating dimension on a 2D surface. It’s the cover that immediately got my attention. Designer Barb Kelly ensures this book will jump off the shelves and will stand out among the other picture books.
June 9, 2022
The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything: The Story of Maria Mitchell is a nonfiction picturebook written by Laura Alary and illustrated by Ellen Rooney. Maria longed to travel beyond her small island of Nantucket. But she wasn't sure how. Her father taught her to look to the stars for guidance. If you knew how to read them, he said, the stars could tell you where you were, and where you needed to go. They spent hours scanning the night sky together through a telescope on the roof. Maria learned how to use astronomers' tools to measure and track time by the stars. But what could she do with her skills? Then, one day, she heard that a prize was being offered to the first person to find a new comet. Could this be the opportunity she was waiting for?
The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything is an engaging biographical picturebook of a little known nineteenth-century woman scientist and women's rights advocate. Maria Mitchell would go on to become the first professional female astronomer in the United States, first female member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and one of the first female college professors. I think this book balances accessible storytelling, lovely artwork, and encouragement for young readers to keep observing the world and follow their passions. I like that the story itself included some of the obstacles that Mitchell had to deal with and followed up with more information on her activism and encouragement for all readers to explore their interests, work hard, and follow their dreams even if it goes against cultural norms.
I think The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything would be a great addition to public, school, classroom, and personal libraries.
The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything is an engaging biographical picturebook of a little known nineteenth-century woman scientist and women's rights advocate. Maria Mitchell would go on to become the first professional female astronomer in the United States, first female member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and one of the first female college professors. I think this book balances accessible storytelling, lovely artwork, and encouragement for young readers to keep observing the world and follow their passions. I like that the story itself included some of the obstacles that Mitchell had to deal with and followed up with more information on her activism and encouragement for all readers to explore their interests, work hard, and follow their dreams even if it goes against cultural norms.
I think The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything would be a great addition to public, school, classroom, and personal libraries.
March 29, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley and Kids Can Press for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything: The Story of Maria Mitchell is a lovely, fascinating picture book about women and astronomy. It talks about women's rights, desires and dreams and aspirations; bonds Maria had with her family; the environment she grew up in,... This book is written by Laura Alary, and is illustrated by Ellen Rooney.
Maria Mitchell was an American astronomer that grew up believing she did not need someone else 一of authority一 to think for her, or telling her what to do. She had strong opinions, and was raised in a religious family that believed in equality between women and men. She was also a teacher and a librarian.
She was one of the most relevant women in history of astronomy.
"Maria's shining determination lit the way for other young women scientists to follow."
She encouraged her students to use their own minds, and taught them to question everything.
In this book, we can learn more about Maria Mitchell's life. It's filled with colorful, bright illustrations that catch your eye in an exquisite and beautiful way as is well rich in details.
"Why starve women's minds to feed men's bodies?"
I highly recommend this book, especially for children 一although I always recommend this kind of books for everyone, and I do so with this, too一, and especially for girls. This book is filled with feminist topics.
I found the reading of this book so interesting! I always love to read books about women written by women.
I highly recommend it!
The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything: The Story of Maria Mitchell is a lovely, fascinating picture book about women and astronomy. It talks about women's rights, desires and dreams and aspirations; bonds Maria had with her family; the environment she grew up in,... This book is written by Laura Alary, and is illustrated by Ellen Rooney.
Maria Mitchell was an American astronomer that grew up believing she did not need someone else 一of authority一 to think for her, or telling her what to do. She had strong opinions, and was raised in a religious family that believed in equality between women and men. She was also a teacher and a librarian.
She was one of the most relevant women in history of astronomy.
"Maria's shining determination lit the way for other young women scientists to follow."
She encouraged her students to use their own minds, and taught them to question everything.
In this book, we can learn more about Maria Mitchell's life. It's filled with colorful, bright illustrations that catch your eye in an exquisite and beautiful way as is well rich in details.
"Why starve women's minds to feed men's bodies?"
I highly recommend this book, especially for children 一although I always recommend this kind of books for everyone, and I do so with this, too一, and especially for girls. This book is filled with feminist topics.
I found the reading of this book so interesting! I always love to read books about women written by women.
I highly recommend it!
January 24, 2023
I hadn’t heard of Maria Mitchell before reading this book (and that is no longer embarrassing to admit after having done so with so many picture book biographies over the past few years here on this blog!). But I am glad I did, and you will be too.
This is an engaging and inspiring biography about Maria Mitchell. She was, as the author’s note states at the end of the book, ‘a woman of firsts!’ Ellen Rooney’s whimsical and beautiful illustrations are a perfect complement to Laura Alary’s narrative in this biography. The costumes, colors, tones, and other details of the artwork are in sync with the topic – astronomy, and the time period the book is set in (or rather, the time Mitchell lived in). I loved looking through the details in the art as well as in the many scattered text boxes (to add emphasis to the narrative) as much as I enjoyed reading the story of Mitchell told in simple, straight-forward language while keeping the words and language needed for a book about an astronomer (like chronometer).
Everything from the stunning cover to the author’s note and list of resources at the back of the book make this a must-read biography of a woman who needs to be more well-known than she is currently.
Thanks to Netgalley for making the digital review copy available for an honest review
This is an engaging and inspiring biography about Maria Mitchell. She was, as the author’s note states at the end of the book, ‘a woman of firsts!’ Ellen Rooney’s whimsical and beautiful illustrations are a perfect complement to Laura Alary’s narrative in this biography. The costumes, colors, tones, and other details of the artwork are in sync with the topic – astronomy, and the time period the book is set in (or rather, the time Mitchell lived in). I loved looking through the details in the art as well as in the many scattered text boxes (to add emphasis to the narrative) as much as I enjoyed reading the story of Mitchell told in simple, straight-forward language while keeping the words and language needed for a book about an astronomer (like chronometer).
Everything from the stunning cover to the author’s note and list of resources at the back of the book make this a must-read biography of a woman who needs to be more well-known than she is currently.
Thanks to Netgalley for making the digital review copy available for an honest review
April 8, 2022
I absolutely love a good picture book biography and this one, featuring pioneering astronomer Maria Mitchell, does not disappoint.
This book does an excellent job of focusing in on Marie Mitchell's life, taking us back in time and allowing us to really step into her shoes. At the same time, the narrative reaches through time to children today, where they can see themselves in the story and find inspiration that transfers beyond the life of Maria Mitchell. This is a great book for space-loving children but also any child that dreams and works hard at what they love.
This is a lovely celebration of an important historical moment (and the illustrations are just spot on and wonderfully engaging) but also a celebration of perseverance, ingenuity, and following your dreams.
The final pages of the book offer more details of Maria Mitchell's life and the historical context in which she lives, as well as some scientific details.
I love this and hope many children will have a change to read it!
***Note: I was given a review copy of this book via Kids Can Press. Opinions are my own.
This book does an excellent job of focusing in on Marie Mitchell's life, taking us back in time and allowing us to really step into her shoes. At the same time, the narrative reaches through time to children today, where they can see themselves in the story and find inspiration that transfers beyond the life of Maria Mitchell. This is a great book for space-loving children but also any child that dreams and works hard at what they love.
This is a lovely celebration of an important historical moment (and the illustrations are just spot on and wonderfully engaging) but also a celebration of perseverance, ingenuity, and following your dreams.
The final pages of the book offer more details of Maria Mitchell's life and the historical context in which she lives, as well as some scientific details.
I love this and hope many children will have a change to read it!
***Note: I was given a review copy of this book via Kids Can Press. Opinions are my own.
March 28, 2022
This picture book biography tells the story of astronomer Maria Mitchell who pushed boundaries and set the stage for future female scientists to come. Demonstrating the importance of inquiry, STEM and following your dreams, Maria Mitchell is a role model for young girls everywhere and this picture book not only tells her story but shows the adversity women in science faced in the past, and still face today. The illustrations are beautiful, they appear to be mixed-media or collage, and are a perfect example of texture in painting. As a teacher I could see using this book as an introduction to biography, for lessons on STEM, as inspiration for art and many other social studies and science outcomes. The book also concludes with several pages of historical information as well as support for young girls with aspirations and interests to explore. I think this would be a great book for teachers, librarians and families of children ages 4-12, especially young science lovers. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this great book!
March 3, 2022
Yet another important female pioneer I've never heard of! The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything is the story of Maria Mitchell, a young girl from Massachusetts who discovered a comet in the late 1800s when the King of Denmark offered a prize to anyone who could find one. Maria grew up in a Quaker home with a librarian mother who loved books and an astronomer and mathematician father, who were adamant that Maria have a great education (especially since she had an affinity for math and astronomy herself). After she discovered the comet, she became a professor of astronomy at a university and became the first woman inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Science.
This is a great informative book to teach kids about a great female in STEM. The illustrations are really nice too! This book made me do further research on her and the Quaker religion.
Thank you to netgalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is a great informative book to teach kids about a great female in STEM. The illustrations are really nice too! This book made me do further research on her and the Quaker religion.
Thank you to netgalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2022
Inspiring to read this on the International Women’s day!
The Astronomer who questioned everything is about Maria Mitchell, who became the first female astronomer in the United States, one of the first female college professors, and one of the first female member of the American Academy of Arts and Science.
I love to read about the women who came before me, who were these amazing, badass, awesome women, who took a big step to tell the world that no matter our gender we can also do it!! I have to admit, I had not heard of Maria Mitchell before reading this book, but I’m honored to have read about her now.
The illustrations in this book were so beautifully made, and the story was so inspiring. We as readers also gets a good guide to find our own calling in this world. With this book I’m sure will inspire young readers to pursue their dreams.
I got this book for free from netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
The Astronomer who questioned everything is about Maria Mitchell, who became the first female astronomer in the United States, one of the first female college professors, and one of the first female member of the American Academy of Arts and Science.
I love to read about the women who came before me, who were these amazing, badass, awesome women, who took a big step to tell the world that no matter our gender we can also do it!! I have to admit, I had not heard of Maria Mitchell before reading this book, but I’m honored to have read about her now.
The illustrations in this book were so beautifully made, and the story was so inspiring. We as readers also gets a good guide to find our own calling in this world. With this book I’m sure will inspire young readers to pursue their dreams.
I got this book for free from netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher- kids can press, I received an arc in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own!
I’m a homeschool mama to a 3rd and 1st grader - here are their thoughts:
3rd: Maria seemed really cool in this book and I’m glad we got to learn about her!
1st: Maria reminded me of me!
My own reviews and thoughts- illustrations, beautiful. Book- perfection. Loved the information not being washed off for a younger audience. I myself have never heard of Maria until this book- so I was learning right alongside my kids snd I feel like at 30, I learned quite a bit!! Looking forward to more books similar to this- and we will definitely be adding this to our “females are strong!” Shelves!
I’m a homeschool mama to a 3rd and 1st grader - here are their thoughts:
3rd: Maria seemed really cool in this book and I’m glad we got to learn about her!
1st: Maria reminded me of me!
My own reviews and thoughts- illustrations, beautiful. Book- perfection. Loved the information not being washed off for a younger audience. I myself have never heard of Maria until this book- so I was learning right alongside my kids snd I feel like at 30, I learned quite a bit!! Looking forward to more books similar to this- and we will definitely be adding this to our “females are strong!” Shelves!
November 1, 2022
The Story of Maria Mitchell is one for girls, women, and anyone who's been told they can't do something. Maria Mitchell embraced her gifts and passions, worked hard to use them, and found a place in the world where she was meant to inspire others. While most of us will not be the first to discover a comet or do some remarkable thing, we all have a place in the vast cosmos to shine with our own talents and gifts. The story was captivating, with a unique and pleasing illustration style. A wonderful representation for girls in STEM fields, making their way with strong minds and courage.
Read as a nomination in the non-fiction book award category as a panelist for Children's and Young Adult Bloggers' Literary Awards (Cybils Awards).
Read as a nomination in the non-fiction book award category as a panelist for Children's and Young Adult Bloggers' Literary Awards (Cybils Awards).
November 21, 2022
that was so cool. i was able to read this through my browser and not take it as a loan from my local library app, etc. what a genius idea!! i loved this book. i could cry ...i am thankful for the all the ladies who have come before us. the women who struggled but were determined to get where they wished to be ...thank you, thank you!! for all us ladies ...you are awesome!! filled with amazing information i didn't know. i love learning. please read. give as a gift to the girls (ladies) in your lives who need to feel empowered and special. we do a lot and thankful for all the ladies who push us forward, give us strength and lift us up. thank you!! well done! great illustrations. text to provide you will information maybe that will be new to you, like it was for me. wow. neat-O!
February 20, 2022
Loved it!
A wonderful children's book about the girl who could! So wonderful that a young woman born in the early 1800's was brainy and encouraged to succeed by her father!
Beautifully isllustrated!
Three minor comments that I will provide to the publisher directly.
Thank you to NetGalley, Laura Alary the author, Ellen Rooney the illustrator and Kids Cann Press the publisher for the opportunity to read and review the Advance Read Copy of The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything: The Story of Maria Mitchell. Publication Date 3 May 2022.
I plan to purchase for my niece and nephew!
A wonderful children's book about the girl who could! So wonderful that a young woman born in the early 1800's was brainy and encouraged to succeed by her father!
Beautifully isllustrated!
Three minor comments that I will provide to the publisher directly.
Thank you to NetGalley, Laura Alary the author, Ellen Rooney the illustrator and Kids Cann Press the publisher for the opportunity to read and review the Advance Read Copy of The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything: The Story of Maria Mitchell. Publication Date 3 May 2022.
I plan to purchase for my niece and nephew!
April 6, 2022
Maria Mitchell is a great subject for a picture book biography. She is an example for young girls to break molds. Maria came from a family of 10 and she spent much of her youth caring for her siblings and sewing. She was bored with these pursuits and expressed an interest in Astronomy. Fortunately, her father was not horrified by her curiosity and wish to learn Astronomy. He was an astronomer and so he had the knowledge and equipment to give her a good education on the subject. She wound up doing amazing things in her adulthood.
April 7, 2022
A worthy entry into the blossoming genre of picture book biographies, the story of Maria Mitchell, the first female professional astronomer in the US, is illustrated with Ellen Rooney's delightful pictures. Her depictions of the nighttime sky seem too expansive to be captured on the pages of a book. The author's note includes some further information but felt more inspirational and didactic than informative. I wish the book had included a timeline and more easily accessible facts to supplement the narrative biography. A great book to share with children fascinated with the night sky.
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