Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 06/01/2017 *Starred Review* Eugenie Clark (ichthyologist), Marie Tharp (cartographer), Florence Hawley Ellis (anthropologist), Gertrude Elion (pharmacologist), Margaret Burbidge (astrophysicist), and Katherine Coleman Johnson (the mathematician recently popularized by Hidden Figures). What do these women have in common that qualify them as super women? They were trailblazers during the 1930s through 1960s—a time when women were not acknowledged as career-oriented and not permitted to work alongside male coworkers. In spite of incessant discrimination and sexism, these women courageously pursued their scientific passions. “Imagine being a highly trained astronomer who’s forbidden to look through a state-of-the-art telescope, or an accomplished underwater cartographer who’s not allowed to sail on research ships,” writes Lawlor in the introduction. “All because you happen to be a woman.” Readers don’t need to go far to sample the arresting storytelling. The first page about Clark describes, in breathtaking style, the time when the 59-year-old scientist abruptly decided to hitch a ride on a shark fin. This high-interest approach continues as Lawlor paints powerful portrayals of those who overcame barriers and refused to be labeled as quitters, forcing them to find creative ways to succeed in their careers. The book’s design is sparse but punctuated with well-chosen black-and-white primary-source photos. The bravery and high achievements of these six women have been and continue to be an inspiration to young girls with big scientific dreams. - Copyright 2017 Booklist.