Author(s): Mary Wissinger; Danielle Pioli (Illustrator)

Biographies & Memoir

Can one seed make a difference?

Women in Botany introduces kids to the field of botany through the questions of a spunky girl. Readers will experience the dazzling world of plants and learn about timeless women botanists who have used tiny seeds to do huge things, like create new medicines and feed their communities. The highlighted women hail from all over the world, span from the 16th Century to present day, and include Waheenee, Ynés Mexía, Dr. Janaki Ammal, Elizabeth Coleman White, Loredana Marcello, and Dr. Wangari Maathai.

Designed to motivate girls to learn more about the field of botany and see how one person's creativity and determination can change the world, this book has been peer reviewed by an extensive team of scientists, science educators, and parents. Concepts covered include botany, parts of a seed (embryo, endosperm, seed coat), parts of a plant (roots, stem), conditions for plant growth, plant species, parts of flowers (anther, stigma, pollen), The Linnaean System, hybrid plants, medicines, conservation, and photosynthesis.

Part of the riveting "Science Wide Open" series, Women in Botany shows young readers how their own big ideas can blossom.