Stemple, Heidi E. Y. She Sells Seashells: Mary Anning, an Unlikely Paleontologist. Emily Paik, Illus. Charlesbridge, 07/2024. [40]pp. Nonfiction. Trade $17.99. 978-1-6235-4328-0. GRADES 2–5. ADDITIONAL.
This nonfiction picture book biography looks at the early life of Mary Anning, who is now recognized as the world’s first paleontologist based on her discovery of the Ichthyosaur, the Plesisaur, and one of the earliest Pterosaurs. The book drives home the point that Anning, like many women in the sciences, was overlooked and unrecognized in her own time and for most of history. In the early 1800s, Anning and her brother helped support their family by collecting rocks and shells along the ocean cliffs near their home. As she made her discoveries, groups of scientists collected her fossils and became famous for creating the science of paleontology based on what they learned from them. The story and digital illustrations are interesting, and probably better suited for an older reader than a younger one. All characters appear to be white. Extensive back matter gives much more information about her discoveries.
Rachael Reiley—Hillcrest Elementary K–8 / Oakland Unified School District