Right in time for Women’s History Month, we have a wonderful new picture book biography, Breaking Through the Clouds: The Sometimes Turbulent Life of Meteorologist Joanne Simpson by Sandra Nickel and illustrated by Helena Perez Garcia.
Joanne Simpson’s story is one of perseverance. When she was a girl, Joanne discovered the joy of watching clouds. As she sailed in her boat– or flew in her plane in later years– she learned the importance of paying attention to the weather.
Joanne went to the University of Chicago about the same time World War II broke out. They needed someone to teach Air Force officers about winds, and Joanne an aptitude for weather and knew how to fly, so they asked her to take over. Once the war ended, however, and Joanne decided to continue her studies, her professors didn’t agree. They told her:
“No woman ever got a doctorate in meteorology. And no woman ever will.”
Joanne wasn’t willing to give up. She worked hard.
She discovered so many important things that she achieved her dream.
Breaking Through the Clouds is a perfect choice for Women’s History Month, as well as for budding historians and budding scientists. Get inspired by a copy today!
Be sure to visit Growing with Science blog for the full review and activity suggestions.
Copyright © 2022 Roberta Gibson All Rights Reserved.
Thank you for this marvelous review and for featuring Breaking Through the Clouds for Nonfiction Monday!