Picture books to build scientific literacy

Part of the wonder of picture books is their approachability. In just one library trip, readers can explore many different topics. In addition, with picture books, readers learn that both pictures and text communicate information, setting the foundation for information literacy. However, making sense of information also serves as a building block of scientific literacy. Each book on this list offers the possibility to ease into scientific literacy by gently guiding readers to make observations, ask questions or build vocabulary.

When You Find the Right Rock by Mary Lyn Ray

This ode to rock hunting will encourage its audience to get outside. The particular joy of finding a special rock is evoked in the mesmerizing art by Felicita Sala, who designed the rocks in a way that makes the reader want to pluck their favorites straight from the page. Some illustrations even look like they could have been inspired by Marquette’s shoreline – particularly the ones with people climbing and resting on giant rocks. If your child is always on the lookout for the right rock, make sure they register for the library’s Winter Reading Program, beginning Saturday, January 11th, where they will be able to choose from an assortment of rocks and rock-related prizes in exchange for turning in reading logs.

Partly Cloudy by Deborah Freedman

In this dreamy picture book, two bunnies guide readers through their observations of the sky. One bunny is full of exuberant imagination, while the other is eager to place scientific labels on the phenomena they witness. Do you see whipped cream or stratocumulus? Jellyfish or virga clouds? Instead of pitting the two perspectives against one another, Freedman permits the bunnies to see eye-to-eye and find value in both types of description. For the most curious readers, there are additional text boxes and back matter accompanying the story.

Ursula Upside Down by Corey R. Tabor

Award-winning author and illustrator Tabor has said in an interview that he is inspired by his son’s fascination with interesting animals. Reading his books, it becomes quickly apparent that he also has a gift for transforming that fascination into the animal characters he conjures. In this story, Ursula is a fish, who enjoys swimming upside down, much to the confusion of the other characters she encounters. However, the ‘aha moment’ is saved for the very end. This book is not just about a playful, intrepid fish swimming upside down for the sake of a metaphor. Via an author’s note, readers discover that upside-down catfish really exist, and then the questions begin!

The Next Scientist by Kate Messner

If one of the above titles resonates with your child, this book might be the perfect supplement to share the possibilities of continuing to follow scientific interests. Messner manages to briefly highlight over 40 scientists by creating loose groupings based upon each scientist’s childhood interests and skills. Geologist/space scientist Farouk El-Baz went on walks to observe rocks as a kid, ichthyologist David Santana collected fish for his aquarium, and atmospheric scientist Warren Washington enjoyed reading books. What Messner is able to convey is that there is not just one mold for the next scientists, but a number of traits — being artistic, inquisitive or observant, for example — that could serve as a seed for a future career.

By Meghan LeBoeuf

Youth Services