The Girl Who Tested the Waters: Ellen Swallow, Environmental Scientist (Curious Minds) by Junyi Wu, Patricia Daniele
Published by MIT Kids Press on February 4, 2025
ISBN: 1536230057
Genres: Biography/Autobiography
Format: Picture Book Nonfiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads

Ellen Swallow was born in 1842 with a love for all things in the natural world. Her family valued education and made sure she received not only a high school diploma but went on to college. Ellen then became the first woman ever admitted to MIT where she studied chemistry. She withstood the trials this brought to her and became a revered member of the student body and was offered the opportunity to study Boston’s water looking for environmental contaminants that were making people sick. From her results a water treatment plant was developed, the first of its kind which led to the water treatment facilities we all encounter in our daily lives.

The book’s content is highlighted with gorgeous illustrations and wrapped up with extensive back matter.

Ages 4-9

Reviewed by MaryAnn Lopes, Elementary Librarian. Lewiston Public Schools, Lewiston, Maine.