This informative book is written by Linda Skeers and illustrated by Marta Álvarez Minguéns
Pop quiz – do you know what a paleontologist is? Simply put, a paleontologist is someone who studies fossils. Dr. Toughlove has decided that in honor of Women’s History Month, she would review “Dinosaur Lady: The Daring Discoveries of Mary Anning, the First Paleontologist.” This informative book is beautifully written by Linda Skeers and exquisitely illustrated by Marta Álvarez Miguéns.
Published in 2020, this book tells the story of Mary Anning, a young girl who lived in England and was born in 1799. If Dr. Toughlove had to describe her she would use the words inquisitive and ingenious with a dose of perseverance thrown in.
When Mary was young, she and her brother explored the cliffs near her home and found fossils, among many other interesting things. Mary collected her discoveries, took notes about what she saw and read books to learn more about her specimens.
By the time you finish reading “Dinosaur Lady: The Daring Discoveries of Mary Anning, the First Paleontologist”, you will know a lot about paleontology and learn why these discoveries are still important today.
In addition to a compelling story, “Dinosaur Lady” provides a timeline of Mary’s accomplishments so the reader will know how old she was when she made her discoveries. As an extra bonus, the author included additional notes and a bibliography in case you want to expand your horizons and learn more.
“Dinosaur Lady: The Daring Discoveries of Mary Anning, the First Paleontologist,” is a great book selection any time of the year, but is particularly timely during Women’s History Month. Mary’s resourceful attitude is displayed throughout the book and can inspire us all.
This book is also a wonderful choice for a read aloud experience. Children will enjoy learning about and seeing illustrations of fossils. “Dinosaur Lady” also opens the door to talk about a topic that fascinates many kids – dinosaurs.
While this book is recommended for children aged 4-8, Dr. Toughlove believes that children and adults alike will enjoy reading this book and learning about Mary Anning. “Dinosaur Lady: The Daring Discoveries of Mary Anning, the First Paleontologist” is available at the Queen Anne’s County Library.