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Journey into the lives of Maria Sibylla Merian, Mary Anning, and Maria Mitchell. See how these three impressive ladies broke through the typical “girl” stereotype, and went on to discover truths about the life cycles of insects, fossils that helped uncover the past, and the discovery of a comet that soared through the night sky.
S.T.
Finding Wonders: Three Girls Who Changed Science was an interesting read. I liked that the book was told through poetry. It was interesting to see how these girls broke rules and stereotypes while doing things that they love. It made me angry when Maria’s mom was urging her to spend more time on sewing and embroidery than observing her caterpillars. Her mom makes it seem as if caring how others see you and finding a suitor are the only things a girl should aspire for in life. I’m glad Maria went on to teach her daughter how to explore the world and appreciate adventure! She followed her dreams, even though she didn’t have the most supportive home-life. Mary Anning faced a lot of hardships with her father dying, her unsupportive mother, and her brother taking credit for her fossil findings. She is a great example of perseverance though, and continued to find and dig up fossils even after her brother gave up. She grew into an intelligent woman that men sought out for advice. The last section of the book, about Maria Mitchell’s life actually portrayed a supportive family. I thought it was wonderful when Maria’s mom talked her up to the captain and Maria got the chance to show off he skills and fix his chronometer. It was the first time she could show an outsider how knowledgeable she was.
Aditi Srivastava
I enjoyed this book a lot! When I first got the book, I was expecting a boring biography-style read. However, I was pleasantly surprised as the book is written in verse and in a way I could really connect to the characters. These girls who made such an impact in a society in which it was seen as improper or embarrassing are really inspiring. This book showed me in an innumerable ways that curiosity and questions can begin journeys. I loved this book for all of the amazing technicalities, and also for the beautiful message that the book and the lives of these fantastic role models provide.