
Reach for this book when your child expresses a 'strange' interest that others find unappealing, or when they feel like their hobbies don't fit the mold of their peers. It is the perfect antidote to the pressure to conform, showing that what makes a child different can eventually become their greatest professional strength. The story follows Joan Procter, a girl who preferred lizards to dolls and grew up to design the Great Reptile House at the London Zoo. It celebrates curiosity and the courage to be a pioneer in a male-dominated field. With its sophisticated, earth-toned palette, this biography feels grounded and respectful of its subject. It is ideal for children aged 4 to 9 who are building their own sense of identity and learning that passion, paired with persistence, can lead to a truly unique life.
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Sign in to write a reviewMentions Joan's chronic illness and her use of a wheelchair.
The book mentions Joan's chronic illness in a realistic, secular manner. It notes that she was often sick and used a wheelchair later in life, but the focus remains on her agency and work. The resolution is hopeful and celebratory of her legacy.
An elementary student who is a 'collector' of facts or objects, particularly those that others might find gross or frightening. It is perfect for a child who needs validation that their niche interests are valuable.
Read cold. The mention of her illness is brief and serves to show her resilience rather than to evoke pity. A parent might see their child being teased for a hobby or notice their child retreating into a solitary interest that doesn't align with 'traditional' gender or social norms.
Younger children (4-6) will be captivated by the idea of a pet crocodile and the 'dragons' at the zoo. Older children (7-9) will better appreciate the historical context of a woman succeeding in science and the technical details of her zoo designs.
Unlike many STEM biographies that focus solely on the 'discovery,' this book emphasizes the empathetic connection between the scientist and the animal, showing how kindness and observation are scientific tools.
The book traces Joan Procter's life from her childhood in the early 1900s, where she kept lizards and snakes, to her adult career at the British Museum and the London Zoo. It highlights her innovative work in herpetology, her unique bond with a Komodo dragon named Sumbawa, and her architectural contributions to zoo enclosures.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.