Seeds of Discovery - by Lori Alexander (Hardcover)

About the Book

Book Synopsis

The quirky and singular Nobel Prize winner Barbara McClintock, a founder of modern genetics who did things her own way, is honored in this lively young STEM biography by Sibert Honor winner Lori Alexander.

Celebrating the power of curiosity and the rewards of tenacity, this engaging and highly illustrated biography introduces young readers to the field of genetics. As a rare female botanist in early twentieth-century America, Barbara McClintock never let other people's notions of what was proper slow her down. When she faced doubting colleagues and unsupportive institutions, she drove across the United States, climbed through windows, and even slept in her laboratory to conduct her research. In so doing, she helped pave the way for future scientific discoveries that can cure diseases and save lives--and won a Nobel Prize in the process!

Back matter includes a timeline, glossary, source notes, and further reading.

How does a girl who loves corn change the world of science?

• An Inspiring Role Model: Follow Barbara as she challenges expectations, wears what she wants, and proves that girls belong in science.
• The Science of Genetics: Learn the basics of DNA, genes, and chromosomes through the story of Barbara's groundbreaking research on corn.
• Scientific Discovery in Action: See how Barbara's curiosity led her to sleep in her lab, climb through windows, and never give up, even when other scientists didn't believe her.
• From Corn to CRISPR: Discover how Barbara's work with "jumping genes" laid the foundation for today's incredible technologies that can cure diseases.

Review Quotes

"A memorable picture of an independent woman's life in science, as well as a clear understanding of her contributions and a vivid sense of the joy she took in making them. Absorbing and inspirational." - Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

"Alexander's approach is to present McClintock as a woman of great intelligence, independence, and drive, while explaining the basics of genetics and DNA....[A] rewarding introduction to a significant twentieth century scientist and her accomplishments." - Booklist (starred review)

"[An] excellent biography of an extraordinary life in science." - Horn Book Magazine

"Digestible text relates historical and scientific concepts that expand the scope of McClintock's professional journey. Santo utilizes a folk-art style to highlight the principles of botany and showcase the whimsical nature of an intellectual absorbed in her work. Highly readable and engaging."