(3) YA The seventeenth-century entomologist, ecologist, and artist fully comes to life in this absorbing biography. Richly illustrated with over a hundred images, including those by Merian, her daughters, and their contemporaries, this comprehensive book presents Merian's personality and unique contributions while also providing ample insight into the era in which she worked. The authors' scholarly backgrounds are on display in the depth and detail of coverage. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Erica Wetter

(1) 4-6 Excellent reproductions of seventeenth-century German naturalist Merian's gorgeous--and groundbreaking--illustrations of butterflies and moths let readers appreciate their accurate scientific detail and artistry. Merian's biography is told in twelve chapters titled with butterfly life-cycle stages, and Sidman's accompanying photographs illustrate each stage. The book includes numerous excerpts from Merian's journals, historical illustrations, and maps. Reading list, timeline. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford | Horn Book Magazine Issue: January, 2018

(2) 4-6 The stories, in poetry, of three self-taught female scientists: in seventeenth-century Germany, Maria Sibylla Merian studies silkworm metamorphosis; in eighteenth-century England, Mary Anning develops paleontological skills selling fossils to keep her siblings fed; and Maria Mitchell joins her father at his telescope on nineteenth-century Nantucket. Atkins guides readers through themes that connect the women's scientific quests and zeroes in on small but telling moments. Bib.

Reviewer: Sarah Rettger | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2016

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Julie Paschkis. Challenging the superstition that "summer birds"--butterflies and moths--were evil creatures spawned from mud, thirteen-year-old Maria Merian observed their life cycles and painted them. Despite a few terminology flubs (substituting cocoon for chrysalis), the book shines a light on a little-known seventeenth-century entomologist and artist. Decorative illustrations, often set against a white backdrop, are meticulous and richly detailed. An author's note is included.

Reviewer: Joanna Rudge Long