The Frog Scientist (by Pamela S. Turner)
common sense media says
Captivating look at a scientist and his work.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this captivating book brings kids right into the research lab. There are pictures of frogs being dissected, discussions of frogs intentionally being exposed to harmful chemicals and being killed for research, and explanations of the scientist’s theory on how a pesticide may be causing male frogs to develop female reproductive traits. This is all done in a straightforward manner, however, providing an illuminating and realistic portrayal of scientific research. The book blends plenty of science with an appealing, fully fleshed-out portrait of a talented scientist.
Educational value:
This volume offers a wealth of information to kids interested in science, discussing everything from the basics of the scientific method to the details of setting up a lab experiment to issues with industry funding of research.
Positive role models:
The featured scientist made it into Harvard but still struggled to stay focused and motivated. He talks about the importance of finding a mentor, and how he now takes promising students under his own wing. He demonstrates persistence, hard work, courage, kindness, and humor. Many of the lab assistants are minorities and women.
Violence:
Frogs are killed and dissected for the purposes of research -- it’s tastefully presented.
Sex:
Not applicable.
Language:
A frog is affectionately described as looking like “a cow turd.”
Consumerism:
Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
Not applicable.
More on The Frog Scientist
Review It
Most useful reviews by all members
dragonsrule
kid, 12 years old
kid, 12 years old
Interesting
I believe this book is good for kids ages nine and up because in the book there is dissecting of frogs for scientific purposes, true, but it is still kind of gross and younger kids might not appreciate how there are detailed photos of that happening. For kids who DO read 'The Frog Scientist' I think they should know that a lot of the book is about the process in the lab to find out if atrazine is feminizing (turning girls into boys) the male frogs, and to do this they have to painlessly end the frogs life so they can dissect them. There is a big amount of science vocabulary, so it is best if a parent can help you with the words, unless you can fully operate the glossary in the back of the book. It was interesting to hear about the scientist's life as a kid and young adult because it made you feel connected to the story, plus it gave you some background information on why he wanted to be a scientist who studies frogs
Flag as inappropriate
was this review useful?
|
|
An independent voice for families
Advice on the big issues
Already read it? What do you think?
Great alternatives handpicked by our editors
