The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian’s Art Changed Science

The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian’s Art Changed Science

Clarion Books, 2018

Grade level; 5th – 7th, 160 pages, 1110L

Robert F. Sibert Medal Winner

Maria Merian, female entomologist, was one of first naturalists to directly observe live insects. She dismissed the conventions of the day when women were not encouraged to study bugs. Her determined and careful study changed our knowledge of insects. She was the first to document the metamorphosis of the butterfly.  Her passion will resonate with young nature lovers who enjoy taking a close look at the natural world.  The book is beautifully illustrated with Merian’s full-color original paintings.  

About the Author:

Joyce Sidman is the author of many award-winning children’s poetry books, including the Newbery Honors award and two-time Caldecott Honor winner. The featured title is the 2019 Robert F. Sibert Medal winner.  Her writing is beloved by children and adults alike. As a child she loved being outdoors, writing, drawing, singing and playing. She states, “the natural world sustains and inspires me” and it is evident in her writing.  

A companion coloring book is available from Amazon.com.

Pathways connections: My World and Others, Living Things and The Environment 

Reviewed by Cheryl The, PhD

Professor of Education

Southwestern Adventist University

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