Children’s authors have lately taken up the task of creating the most beautiful picture book biographies about the women from history who never quite received the accolades and recognition they deserved. The Astronomer who Questioned Everything: The Story of Maria Mitchell by Laura Alary and Ellen Rooney is just that, the story of Maria Mitchell.

Before reading this story I had no clue who Maria Mitchell was and what she contributed to science and astronomy. Some of that stems from where I live. In Canada we obviously learn more about Canadians but I was very interested to learn about Ms Mitchell and her story. The story sends a powerful message to young readers to explore and question. Exploring and questioning help you determine your passions and lead you on a path to lifelong learning.

What struck me most about this story was the support Maria Mitchell received as a young woman growing up in the 1800s, a time when women were only valued for their ability to keep house and bear children. As she was a Quaker, she received many opportunities that other women in the era did not since Quakers believe in the value of educating both boys and girls equally. While being inspired by Maria Mitchell and her accomplishments it’s also important to remember the privilege she had as a white Quaker woman with a supportive family. She faced barriers based on her gender but persevered and was incredibly successful in her career, learning and understanding the importance of education as well as the arts. 

Laura Alary includes an excellent author’s note at the end of the story to complement Maria’s story. There is excellent information for readers, and their adults, to guide them on their journey through life. I especially liked how she framed Maria’s privilege, showing how it contributed to her success. Also, Laura Alary shows readers how Maria used her eventual status and success to support other girls and women in her work as a librarian and professor at Vassar College.

The book is simply gorgeous! The illustrations by Ellen Rooney are divine and immersive, taking readers back to the 1800s. I love how she uses a collage style to her work creating dimension on a 2D surface. It’s the cover that immediately got my attention. Designer Barb Kelly ensures this book will jump off the shelves and will stand out among the other picture books.