Before the World Was Ready: Stories of Daring Genius in Science - Softcover

Eamer explores what it means to defy popular wisdom and become a trailbreaker in the forest of ideas in this fun collective biography. Detailed stories about eight scientists explain how they endured rejection and ridicule for their work on both personal and professional levels... Each person's process of inquiry, experimentation, and discovery typifies the scientific method. Squiggly cartoon illustrations provide comical sidebars in concert with the text. The book's epilogue reinforces its thesis, explaining common obstacles to each of the scientists and discussing potential trailbreakers of the near future in the field of climate change. Aside from providing interesting biographical reading, this book is replete with life lessons for adolescents and tweens about flouting popularity in the name of what is right. (Erin Anderson Booklist 2013-12-01)

This would be a great book for science students in the junior and intermediate grades to read when looking for an interesting scientist to study for a science fair or class project. (Sandra O'Brien Canadian Children's Book News)

By encouraging readers to spot the trailblazers, Eamer introduces history's greatest scientific discoveries, such as plate tectonics, microorganisms, and the harmful effects of pesticides. Although no shortage of published material exists for many of the included scientists, the author takes a novel approach by linking scientists across cultures and time periods based on a similar focus of study. Much of the text is dedicated to forerunners who inspired today's better-known names, such as Sir George Cayley, whose flight research provided the framework for the Wright brothers. A well-rounded list of titles for further reading, a lengthy selected bibliography, and an inclusive index are included. Boothroyd's whimsical illustrations provide a touch of humor. This title may be of interest to students with an appreciation for science or history as well as those researching a specific scientist. (Meaghan Darling, Plainsboro Public Library, NJ School Library Journal 2013-12-01)

The author takes a novel approach by linking scientists across cultures and time periods based on a similar focus of study... Boothroyd's whimsical illustrations provide a touch of humor. This title may be of interest to students with an appreciation for science or history as well as those researching a specific scientist. (School Library Journal 2013-12-01)

This new offering from science writer Claire Eamer is truly revolutionary--and I don't use the term lightly!. . .A must have for every library, classroom, and personal collection. (Yolanda Ridge yolandaridge.com 2013-08-21)