Ellen Swallow, Environmental Scientist
Written by Patricia Caniele, Illustrated by Junyi Wu
This book would be an excellent read-aloud during Women’s History Month or Earth Day, as well as a strong recommendation for students who are curious about science, history, or biographies. It could also be included in a classroom display on STEM pioneers or a booklist highlighting trailblazing women in history. Teachers might use it to introduce concepts of water quality, environmental science, or perseverance in learning.
The story supports topics such as women in STEM, environmental responsibility, and overcoming barriers to education. Many school and classroom libraries lack biographies of women scientists, so this book helps fill that gap. It gives students a chance to learn about Ellen Swallow Richards, a figure who is not as widely recognized as other scientists but whose work has had lasting impact.
What makes this book notable is the way it balances an inspiring biography with accessible explanations of Ellen’s contributions to environmental science. While there are other strong biographies about women scientists (such as Rachel Carson and Her Book That Changed the World by Laurie Lawlor or Girls Think of Everything by Catherine Thimmesh), this book stands out by introducing younger readers to a less commonly celebrated pioneer.
The perspective here is both diverse and unique. For girls who aspire to careers in science, this book can serve as a “mirror” of possibility, showing that women have always been capable of great scientific achievement even when society put up barriers. For other students, it provides a “window” into the struggles and triumphs of someone who pushed against gender norms in the 1800s.
I would definitely recommend that school and public libraries add The Girl Who Tested the Waters to their collections. It fills an important need for biographies of underrepresented scientists, inspires students to pursue curiosity, and encourages readers to think about the connections between science and everyday life.
Reviewed by Julianne Gidney, Instructional Coach, Monroe Elementary
Review shared in September 2025
Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades K-4
The Girl who Tested the Waters: Ellen Swallow, Environmental Scientist
Written by Patricia Caniele, Illustrated by Junyi Wu
MIT Kids Press
40 pages
Release Date: February 4, 2025
ISBN: 9781536230055
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
