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The Frog Scientist (Scientists in the Field)

Dr. Tyrone Hayes and his study of amphibians both in the field and at his lab at the University of California, Berkeley, are highlighted in an excellent addition to the reliable “Scientists in the Field” series. Beginning with an early childhood interest in frogs, Tyrone went on to attend Harvard but considered dropping out during his undergraduate years. A professor recognized the young man’s potential and gave him a research job in his lab, a move that became a pivotal milestone in Tyrone’s career. Dr. Hayes’ studies of the effects of atrazine, a common agricultural pesticide, are presented in clear detail, with text, photos, and diagrams efficiently modeling the Scientific Method. Although the producer of atrazine initially employed Dr. Hayes to study the pesticide’s effects, they refused to let him publish the results of his work. Repeated experimentation undergone independently produced similar results, and Dr. Hayes has gone on to publicize the data in academic and public arenas. Pamela Turner deftly mixes scientific information with personal stories featuring Dr. Hayes, his family, and his students in a book that can engage readers from a broad range of perspectives, including academic, scientific, political, cultural, and social. Andy Comins’ excellent photographs are well-captioned and liberally sprinkled throughout this appealingly designed volume. ©2009 Cooperative Children's Book Center

Illustrated by Andy Comins

CCBC Age Recommendation: Age 10 and older
Age Range: Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-10) Grades 6-8 (Ages 11-13) Grades 9-12 (Age 14 and older)
Format: Substantial Narrative Non-Fiction
Subjects: African Americans Animals (Informational) Science and Scientists
Diversity subject: Black/African

Publishers: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Houghton Mifflin
Publish Year: 2009
Pages: 58
ISBN: 9780618717163

CCBC Location: Non-Fiction, 597 Turner