Star Struck

Listening to the Stars: Jocelyn Bell Burnell Discovers Pulsars
She Made History Series
by Jodie Parachini art by Alexandra Badiu

2021 picture book chronicles the life and work of astrophysicist Jocelyn Bell Burnell, the researcher who discovered the pulsating radio waves emitted by stars.

From her childhood, Jocelyn was particularly interested in the stars. By the time that she was fifteen she had set her sights on becoming an astronomer. As a graduate student she helped construct the first radio telescope and went on to identify the first four neutron stars. The 1974 Noble Prize awarded for this discovery mentioned only two men. She was not included as a prize recipient.

Parachini emphasizes the numerous contributions Bell Burnell has made to astrophysics and of her efforts to support women pursuing scientific research. In 2018 Jocelyn used her three-million-dollar Special Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics to create a fund for young women to study astronomy.

The narrative uses concrete, easy-to-understand analogies to describe the subject. For example: Jocelyn constructed a radioscope with wires spanning a distance the size of fifty-seven tennis courts. A paper record of sound waves looks like mountain ranges. As it shrinks, a dying neutron star spins like a figure skater, revolving faster and faster.

Badiu's color palette features various shade of blue, punctuated with brilliant pinks and purples when she discovers and researches radio waves. Of note is the passage of time in depictions of Jocelyn as she progresses from young girl venerated woman.  While the hairstyles and eyeglass frames change with the passing years, the wonder and delight on her face remain throughout the book.

Back matter includes a glossary of terms related to the study astronomy, an Author's Note with additional details on the life and contributions of Jocelyn, and a selected biography for young readers.

Listening to the Stars: Jocelyn Bell Burnell Discovers Pulsars  is an excellent introduction to astronomy, astrophysics, and STEM research.  Inspirational account of a girl pursuing her dream.

Women Who Changed Our World

​Explore the lives and contributions of notable women, including some less known individuals, with the picture book series She Made History. These slim volumes introduce young readers to accomplishments of women throughout history.
​View the slide show and select a cover image for additional information.

Uncorrected copy provided by publisher.

Pub date: April 1, 2021  Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company  ISBN:  978-0807545638