  | Girl who tested the waters : Ellen Swallow, environmental scientist Author: Daniele, Patricia | |
| Price: $23.28 | ||
Summary:
Ellen Swallow was a voracious learner with an interest in chemistry, and continuing her education at the newly established Massachusetts Institute of Technology seemed a good fit. But in 1871, many believed that women belonged in the home, not in schools dedicated to the study of science. Ellen thought, why not both? She believed science could help solve the problems of everyday life, including the pollution she observed in Boston.
| Illustrator: | Wu, Junyi |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (01/01/25)
Booklist (02/01/25)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 02/01/2025 In 1842, Ellen Swallow was born with weak lungs. Throughout her childhood, young Ellen's mother followed the doctor’s orders: long walks outdoors, fresh air, fresh foods, and clean water. Ellen grew stronger physically and intellectually. Homeschooled by her parents, she began working to earn money to pay for a college education in advanced math and science. She attended Vassar, where she studied applied chemistry. Later, she became the first woman student at MIT on a full scholarship. After a professor conducting an extensive water-quality survey for Boston chose her to collect and test samples, she began working on ways to provide clean water and test foods for impurities. Wu’s beautifully shaded, color-pencil illustrations will help young readers and listeners envision the historical era as well as Ellen Swallow. In addition to the clearly written text, the book includes an appended section with an author’s note, a useful time line, a bibliography, and source notes. An insightful picture-book biography introducing a trailblazer in the movement to provide clean, safe air, water, and food. - Copyright 2025 Booklist.
