This picture book biography examines the life and career of naturalist and artist Anna Comstock (1854-1930), who defied social conventions and pursued the study of science. From the time she was a young girl, Anna Comstock was fascinated by the natural world. She loved exploring outdoors, examining wildlife and learning nature's secrets. From watching the teamwork of marching ants to following the constellations in the sky, Anna observed it all. And her interest only increased as she grew older and went to college at Cornell University. There she continued her studies, pushing back against those social conventions that implied science was a man's pursuit. Eventually Anna became known as a nature expert, pioneering a movement to encourage schools to conduct science and nature classes for children outdoors, thereby increasing students' interest in nature. In following her passion, this remarkable woman blazed a trail for female scientists today.

Author: Suzanne Slade
As a girl, Suzanne Slade spent her summers at Tippecanoe Lake in Indiana where she enjoyed watching many tadpoles, turtles, and beautiful butterflies. A geek at heart, Suzanne is the award-winning author of dozens of nature and science books. Her latest picture book, The Inventor’s Secret, is a 2016 NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Book. Suzanne lives in Libertyville, Illinois.

Illustrator: Jessica Lanan
Jessica Lanan grew up in Colorado and spent her childhood out exploring nature, just like Anna. She decided to pursue illustration after bringing a set of watercolors with her on a trip around the world. Jessica lives in Boulder, Colorado, with her husband and three-legged cat. When she’s not painting or drawing, she’s often out hiking, biking, or dancing the Argentine Tango. Visit her online at jessicalanan.com.