Lindsay H. Metcalf – STEM Friday

Did you know that before author and illustrator Beatrix Potter began her career writing the famous children’s classics, she was a scientist? Find out all about it in Beatrix Potter, Scientist by Lindsay H. Metcalf and illustrated by Junyi Wu.

Like the illustration of young Beatrix Potter on the cover, this book focuses a lens on the children’s author’s lesser-known years as a mycologist (one who studies fungi). Although Potter had no formal schooling in science, she was introduced to mushrooms by a talented amateur named Charles McIntosh. He became her mentor and sent her samples to study. Beatrix made beautiful detailed drawings of each specimen. She also figured out a way to prove that new mushrooms grow from spores, something that wasn’t well known at the time. However, like other women scientists in the 1800s and early 1900s, Beatrix Potter encountered resistance when she tried to share her findings.

After finishing the book, educators and parents will likely want to discuss with young readers the pros and cons of how Beatrix ultimately dealt with the rejection.

Overall Beatrix Potter, Scientist will appeal to both young readers interested in STEM and also those interested in women’s history. Investigate a copy today!

Be sure to visit Growing with Science blog for the rest of the review and hands-on activity suggestions for studying fungi.