This month is all about books that focus on the subject of botany, or plant science. These titles highlight all sorts of plants, from tall trees to tiny seeds. There are stories of preservation and tales of how plants have been used medicinally. There are books that focus on entire forest communities. Plants provide us with food, shade, oxygen, and so much more. This autumn is the perfect time to take one of these titles outside, sit underneath your favorite tree, and read.
Champion: The Comeback Tale of the American Chestnut Tree by Sally Walker
The iconic American chestnut tree has a fascinating history. It’s hard to believe we almost lost it for good. Sally Walker tells the tale in this informative and engaging volume that bridges history and science.
The Plant Hunters: True Stories of Their Daring Adventures to the Far Corners of the Earth by Anita Silvey
If you love stories of adventure and science this book is a must-read. Anita Silvey introduces readers to the intrepid explorers of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries who contributed immensely to science, medicine, and agriculture.
Poison: Deadly Deeds, Perilous Professions, and Murderous Medicines by Sarah Albee
This book investigates the role that poisons have played in history. It includes stories about the use of toxic plants throughout history.
Firebirds: Valuing Natural Wildfires and Burned Forests by Sneed Collard III
In a period of increasingly more frequent wildfires, Sneed Collard delves into the relationship between natural forest fires and wildlife communities in these burned areas.
Botanicum: Welcome to the Museum by Kathy Willis and Katie Scott
This exquisitely illustrated oversized book depicts all types of plant life and includes cross-sections of how plants work. It is a perfect addition to any botany bookshelf.
Chocolate: Riches from the Rainforest by Robert Burleigh
There are many books about our beloved sweet. Try reading this one if you haven’t already. A great blend of history and science.
The Story of Seeds: From Mendel’s Garden to Your Plate, and How There’s More of Less To Eat Around the World by Nancy F. Castaldo
By no means a gardening book, this title explores the state of our agriculture system and the loss of seed diversity. It is a great title to accompany school garden programs.
The Prairie Builders: Rebuilding America’s Lost Grasslands by Sneed Collard III
This Scientist in the Field title focuses on regenerating an important area of America and its biodiversity. A great book for ecosystem units.
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1st Place — Receives 5 autographed STEM Books from our STEM Tuesday team + $25 Barnes & Noble Gift card
2nd Place — Receives 3 autographed STEM Books from our STEM Tuesday team + $15 Barnes & Noble Gift card
3rd Place— Receives 2 autographed STEM Books from our STEM Tuesday team +$10 Barnes & Noble Gift card
STEM Tuesday book lists prepared by:
Nancy Castaldo has written books about our planet for over 20 years including her 2016 title, THE STORY OF SEEDS: From Mendel’s Garden to Your Plate, and How There’s More of Less To Eat Around The World, which earned the Green Earth Book Award and other honors. Nancy’s research has taken her all over the world from the Galapagos to Russia. She enjoys sharing her adventures, research, and writing tips. She strives to inform, inspire, and educate her readers. Nancy also serves as the Regional Advisor of the Eastern NY SCBWI region. Her 2018 title is BACK FROM THE BRINK: Saving Animals from Extinction. www.nancycastaldo.com
Patricia Newman writes middle-grade nonfiction that inspires kids to seek connections between science, literacy, and the environment. The recipient of a Sibert Honor Award for Sea Otter Heroes and the Green Earth Book Award for Plastic, Ahoy!, her books have received starred reviews, been honored as Junior Library Guild Selections, and included on Bank Street College’s Best Books lists. New in 2018: Eavesdropping on Elephants: How Listening Helps Conservation. During author visits, she demonstrates how her writing skills give a voice to our beleaguered environment. Visit her at www.patriciamnewman.com.