These profiles of six women are nothing less than inspiring. All were eager and enthusiastic observers of nature from the time they were children, and all grew up to be naturalists who made significant contributions to science. From the time she was young, each woman had a passion she ultimately could not ignore, despite the obstacles that gender, class, and family expectations cast in her way. Jeannine Atkins’ narrative about each life and specific sphere of interest is sure to generate new lovers of the natural world. The profiles in this modestly produced paperback collection, illustrated in black and white, are arranged chronologically. They include Maria Sibylla Merian (17th century); Ann Botsford Comstock (19th century); and four women of the 20th century: Frances Hamerstrom (who spent most of her adult life studying birds in Wisconsin and documenting the causes of extinction), Rachel Carson, Miriam Rothschild, and Jane Goodall. (Ages 8-11)

An inspiring famous women book for girls, Girls Who Looked Under Rocks also makes the perfect feminist gift for girls.

Girls Who Looked Under Rocks: The Lives of Six Pioneering Naturalists is for a world no longer confined by gender stereotypes, and a place where science is for girls, too! Parents and children will love this portrayal of six women who grew up playing in the dirt and went on to become award winning scientists and writers. All of these women were discouraged from pursuing careers in science, but they all persisted in their passion.

If there is a pre-teen or adolescent in your life, especially a girl, take a look at this empowering, inspiring chapter book. It portrays the youths and careers of six remarkable women whose curiosity about nature fueled a passion to steadfastly overcome obstacles to careers in traditionally men-only occupations. The six-Maria Merian (b.1647), Anna Comstock (b.1854), Frances Hamerstrom (b.1907), Rachel Carson (b.1907), Miriam Rothschild (b.1908), and Jane Goodall (b.1934)—all became renowned scientists, artists and writers. A wonderful resource for young researchers and biographers, these stories can be a starting point for issues of gender, science, and the environment.