BooksLiterary Work of Kathryn Lasky
She Caught the Light
They wouldn't let her look through a telescope, but she helped catalogue the stars.
Ever since Williamina “Mina” Stevens Fleming was little, she was curious—always in awe of her father’s photography and how he would catch the light to make an image. Mina’s childhood fascination with light inspired her own life’s work. Mina became an astronomer in a time when women were discouraged from even looking through a telescope. But despite these limitations, Mina believed that the universe, with its billions of stars, was a riddle—and she was going to be the one to help crack it. And she did! Mina created a map of the universe that paved the way for astronomers and has been used for more than a century.
“A scientific dreamer grounded in hard work. Poetic, accessible text combines with intricate, appealing illustrations to portray Williamina Stevens Fleming (1857-1911), talented astronomer, resilient and highly intelligent individual, and the first woman given an official title (curator of astronomical photographs) at Harvard University… Both an intriguing introduction to astronomy and an involving tale of a strong woman who overcame adversity.” -- Kirkus Reviews
"A compelling story and a fine addition to STEM studies." -- School Library Journal
“Highlighting the life of Scottish-born astronomer Williamina Stevens Fleming, this picture book biography illuminates how her work chipped away at sexist barriers of the late 19th century.” -- Publishers Weekly
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