Young Scientists Will Enjoy Jane’s Journey in National Geographic Kids Book: REVIEW

National Geographic Kids’ new biography of pioneering primatologist Jane Goodall that truly can inspire the next generation of scientists.

I’ve been a fan of Jane for decades, but mostly you hear about the story of her research in the field, the advances in understanding chimpanzee life and culture. While all of that is deftly included in this new book, author Barbara Kramer really wins by the inclusion of Goodall’s childhood. For instance, she shares how as a five-year-old, Jane spent hours sitting in a hen house, to observe how eggs were laid. This is fantastically approachable, as it shows that you don’t need exotic animals to get started, you can study whatever happens to be in your neighbourhood.

Goodall’s start was by contacting a scientist, hoping to discuss chimpanzees, but surprisingly being hired on the spot as a secretary. This turn of events led her to eventually study at university, and then formally re-enter the field as a primatologist herself.

While the book uses accessible language for children, at no point does it dumb down the subject. It’s an appealing read, particularly for aspiring scientists, showing how simple steps can set you in the right direction.

This book is written at Level 1, for ages 4 to 6, and has 32 pages. “Nowadays, we know chimps use tools to help them eat and that, like humans, they can feel emotions, like sadness, happiness, and fear. But this wasn’t always the case! What we know about chimpanzees changed dramatically when Jane Goodall started studying these animals in 1960.”

This book was reviewed from a copy at Brampton Library. Title graphic from Amazon.