Description
An ALSC Notable Children’s Book
A Junior Library Guild Selection
A Bank Street Best Children’s Book of the Year
After losing her mother very early in life, Anna Atkins (1799–1871) was raised by her loving father. He gave her a scientific education, which was highly unusual for women and girls in the early 19th century. Fascinated with the plant life around her, Anna became a botanist. She recorded all her findings in detailed illustrations and engravings, until the invention of cyanotype photography in 1842. Anna used this new technology in order to catalogue plant specimens—a true marriage of science and art. In 1843, Anna published the book Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions with handwritten text and cyanotype photographs. It is considered the first book of photographs ever published. Weaving together histories of women, science, and art, The Bluest of Blues will inspire young readers to embark on their own journeys of discovery and creativity.
“The beautiful blue toned illustrations of this book give it a dream-like quality . . . This book will serve as a great introduction to another wonderful woman in the science field.” —School Library Connection
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Details
Discover the captivating story of Anna Atkins, a trailblazing botanist and photographer, in the beautiful picture book biography, The Bluest of Blues. Written and illustrated by Fiona Robinson, this stunning book takes young readers on an inspiring journey through history, science, and art.
Anna Atkins, raised by her father after losing her mother at a young age, defied societal expectations by pursuing a scientific education in the early 19th century. In awe of the plant life surrounding her, Anna dedicated herself to botanical studies, meticulously recording her findings through intricate illustrations and engravings.
But it was the invention of cyanotype photography in 1842 that revolutionized Anna's work. Utilizing this groundbreaking technology, she effortlessly merged science and art, creating a stunning catalogue of plant specimens. In 1843, Anna Atkins shattered barriers once again by publishing Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions, the world's first-ever book of photographs.
The Bluest of Blues weaves together the captivating stories of women, science, and art, inviting young readers to embark on their own journeys of discovery and creativity. Not only does this book captivate with its dream-like blue-toned illustrations, but it also serves as an inspiring introduction to the remarkable achievements of women in the scientific field.
Dive into the remarkable world of Anna Atkins and be inspired by her legacy. Order your copy of The Bluest of Blues today and empower young minds to reach for the stars.
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