Engagingly told story of America's first black entomologist.

This is a nice biography about a man who always asked “Why”. Why do ants not get lost? Can bees see in color? Can a cockroach learn? It is by asking questions and studying the animals that scientific knowledge is gained. Charles Henry Turner was a man of his time, whose constant questioning led to many scientific discoveries. ( )

As a young boy, Charles Henry Turner was curious and had lots of questions running through his mind. He was fascinated by animals and bugs and decided to study their lives. His parents couldn't answer Turner's questions they bought him books. When books didn't answer his questions, he researched, experimented, and looked for answers on his own. The boy whose teacher urged him "to go and find out" grew into a teacher himself, a devoted scholar who taught students to look closely. ( )

Charles Henry Turner was a "pathbreaking" entomologist who contributed much to science, but was overlooked because he was African-American. Janice N. Harrington and Theodore Taylor III bring his life to light in this picture book biography about a curious, dedicated teacher and scientist. The author adeptly uses entomological figures of speech: "Questions that itched like mosquito bites ..." Charles never stopped asking questions, and encouraged his students to do the same; he was "indefatigable." Includes an Author's Note, black and white photographs of Turner, Timeline, Sources, Selected Papers by Charles Henry Turner, and Notes. ( )

One of the reasons I often dislike picture book biographies, is that their art, while sometimes beautiful, is not particularly eye-catching or likely to inspire a kid to take the book off the shelf. This cover grabbed me right away and drew me into the interesting story. Harrington's past as a librarian and author of excellent read-alouds makes the text accessible, even though it's lengthy.

This is the story of Charles Henry Turner, the biologist you've never heard of. Born in Ohio to a janitor and practical nurse, he struggled against prejudice and poverty but eventually became a teacher and then earned a master's degree and PhD. He taught in many different venues and became an honored researcher and colleague, known for his intelligence and indefatigable work and curiosity as well as his scholarship.

Colorful, bold art shows Turner with the insects that inspired him, never losing focus as he taught and worked throughout his too-short life. Taylor's art follows Harrington's story, always centered on Turner's scientific curiosity and strength of character, but drawing in various world events and not shying away from the prejudice and struggles he faced.

Verdict: While this is lengthy for a read-aloud, it would work well in an elementary classroom or for a strong reader to tackle on their own. Pair it with books about bugs to foster curiosity and exploration of the natural world in children, as well as encourage them to exhibit perseverance and focus.

ISBN: 9781629795584; Published 2019 by Calkins Creek; Purchased for the library