FORCE OF NATURE: A NOVEL OF RACHEL CARSON, by Ann E. Burg and Sophie Blackall, Scholastic Press, March 5, 2024, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 8-12)
Force of Nature: A Novel of Rachel Carson, by Ann E. Burg and Sophie Blackall, is the story of how a young naturalist grows up to change the world.
Rachel was a girl who loved
science and the sea,
books and writing
and all the creatures of the world.
Rachel was quiet,
a listener by nature.
But when she saw problems,
she could not remain silent.
Some people thought girls
shouldn’t be scientists.
They thought girls
shouldn’t use their voices
to question or challenge,
even to protect
all the creatures of the world.
Luckily Rachel didn’t listen
to them. —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press
Rachel Carson (1907-1964) was a biologist, writer and environmental activist whose writing spurred marine conservation and the environmental movement.
In Force of Nature, author Ann E. Burg introduces a new generation to the woman behind Under the Sea-Wind, The Sea Around Us, The Edge of the Sea and Silent Spring.
A novel-in-verse, Force of Nature is both restrained and expansive. Burg’s lyrical prose brings you in and invites you to stay. Burg’s short sentences and chapters are graceful and accessible, making it a good choice for both classroom or individual reading.
Burg captures Carson’s love for nature and her family with a warm touch, giving readers a true sense of Carson’s drive and personality. Accompanying art by Sophie Blackall gives the feel of a journal or field notebook. It’s a lovely read.
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