I seem to be starting the new year with bugs. I can think of nothing better to do, truly an excellent theme for 2020.

This is a picture book biography, but I loved it anyways. It explains in simple language the story of Evelyn Cheesman, born in 1881, who went her own way. She loved bugs and exploring outdoors as a child, and wanted to be a veterinarian, but was unable to attend college due to the discrimination against women at the time. After World War I, she got the opportunity to run the insect house at the London Zoo and quickly excelled in a job no woman had ever held. She then began to travel, exploring insects and bringing back specimens and information for the zoo and scientific organizations. She had many thrilling adventures and was awarded a medal by Queen Elizabeth II. Finally, she wrote books of her adventures, inspiring another generation. The text repeats the refrain "But Evelyn went anyway." after each obstacle that she encounters.

Back matter includes an interview with Dr. Alexandra Harmon-Threatt, a black, female entomologist who studies bees, a more detailed history of Lucy Evelyn Cheesman's life, and a brief bibliography.

The pictures are simple and detailed, showing in shades of brown and green the exciting events of Cheesman's life, her exploration, and also includes images of the indigenous peoples in the lands she visited. Although the text is longer, the cheerful refrain and simple language make it accessible even for young children, although older students will enjoy it as well.

Verdict: An excellent biography of a unique female scientist. Recommended.

ISBN: 9781943147663; Published September 2019 by Innovation; Borrowed from another library in my consortium

Note: I accessed a digital review copy of this book through Edelweiss. ( )