NONFICTION

A Dinosaur Named Ruth: How Ruth Mason Discovered Fossils in Her Own Backyard

by Julia Lyon (text) & illus. by Alexandra Bye
S. & S./Margaret K. McElderry. Jan. 2022. 40p. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9781534474642.
COPY ISBN
Gr 2-4–In this charming picture book biography, readers learn about Ruth Mason, a little-known contributor to the world of dinosaurs. Mason grew up in South Dakota in the early 1900s. She would often find bones in her backyard and started to collect them. After years of collecting and writing to experts, Mason was visited by a fossil hunter who confirmed that her treasures were indeed fossils that were millions of years old. Students will be able to identify with Mason’s curiosity and wonder. The digital illustrations enhance the text with their soft colors and whimsical sensibility. Further reading suggestions are provided. This would be a great choice for reading aloud during fossil or dinosaur units.
VERDICT A strong selection for picture biography collections, especially where there are gaps on the women in STEM shelves.
Reviewed by V. Lynn ­Christiansen, Wiley International Studies Magnet Elem. Sch., Raleigh, NC , Oct 01, 2021

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