A fascinating picture book biography of a pioneering female scientist who loved reptiles! While other girls played with dolls, Joan preferred the company of reptiles. She carried her favorite lizard with her everywhere--she even brought a crocodile to school! When Joan grew older, she became the Curator of Reptiles at the British Museum. She went on to design the Reptile House at the London Zoo, including a home for the rumored-to-be-vicious komodo dragons. There, just like when she was a little girl, Joan hosted children's tea parties--with her komodo dragon as the guest of honor. With a lively text and vibrant illustrations, scientist and writer Patricia Valdez and illustrator Felicita Sala bring to life Joan Procter's inspiring story of passion and determination.
Patricia Valdez Boeken




Discover new realms of outer space in this picture book biography of scientist Gabriela Gonzalez, who immigrated to America and became a ground-breaking scientist. Written by a molecular biologist and illustrated by an award-winning artist, this stunning picture book explores science, space, and history. In 1916, Albert Einstein had a theory. He thought that somewhere out in the universe, there were collisions in space. These collisions could cause little sound waves in the fabric of space-time that might carry many secrets of the distant universe. But it was only a theory. He could not prove it in his lifetime.Many years later, an immigrant scientist named Gabriela Gonzalez asked the same questions. Armed with modern technology, she joined a team of physicists who set out to prove Einstein's theory. At first, there was nothing. But then... they heard a sound. Gabriela and her team examined, and measured, and re-measured until they were sure. Completing the work that Albert Einstein had begun 100 years earlier, Gonzalez broke ground for new space-time research. In a fascinating picture book that covers 100 years, 2 pioneering scientists, and 1 trailblazing discovery, Patricia Valdez sheds light on a little known but extraordinary story.
The biography highlights the inspiring journey of Gabriela Gonzalez, an immigrant who made significant contributions to the field of science. Through vivid illustrations and engaging storytelling, readers explore themes of space exploration and the impact of her groundbreaking work. Authored by a molecular biologist, the book combines scientific insight with artistic expression, making it an enriching experience for young readers interested in science and history.
Joan Procter, Drachendoktor
Die Frau, die Reptilien liebte
Die Zeiten änderten sich, und Joan Procter ging voran! Als Joan Procter ein kleines Mädchen war, lud sie ganz außergewöhnliche Gäste zu ihren Teegesellschaften ein: Statt mit Puppen und Prinzessinnen verbrachte sie ihre Zeit lieber mit ihren Eidechsen. Später führte ihre Leidenschaft für Reptilien sie dann ins Londoner Naturkundemuseum und in den Londoner Zoo, wo sie die erste weibliche Kuratorin im Reptilienhaus wurde. Besonders bekannt wurde Joan durch ihre Arbeit mit den Komodowaranen, deren Schönheit sie dem Publikum zugänglich machte. In diesem Buch über Joans Leben und Wirken erzählen Patricia Valde und Felicita Sala die Geschichte einer Pionierin der Wissenschaft, die zu ihrer Zeit eine internationale Sensation war und deren Vermächtnis den Weg für weibliche Zoologinnen auf der ganzen Welt ebnete.