Book details
Counting on Katherine
Description
The bold story of Katherine Johnson, an African-American mathematician who worked for NASA during the space race and was depicted in the film Hidden Figures.
You've likely heard of the historic Apollo 13 moon landing. But do you know about the mathematical genius who made sure that Apollo 13 returned safely home?
As a child, Katherine Johnson loved to count. She counted the steps on the road, the number of dishes and spoons she washed in the kitchen sink, everything! Boundless, curious, and excited by calculations, young Katherine longed to know as much as she could about math, about the universe.
From Katherine's early beginnings as a gifted student to her heroic accomplishments as a prominent mathematician at NASA, Counting on Katherine is the story of a groundbreaking American woman who not only calculated the course of moon landings but, in turn, saved lives and made enormous contributions to history.
Christy Ottaviano Books
Age
5-8
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
40 pages
Why to read
- Katherine Johnson's inspiring story: Counting on Katherine tells the story of Katherine Johnson, a mathematician and NASA employee who played a crucial role in the success of the Apollo 11 mission. Her inspiring story is a reminder that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
- The importance of STEM education: The book highlights the importance of STEM education and how it can open doors for individuals from all backgrounds. It encourages readers to pursue careers in these fields and shows how they can make a difference in the world.
- The power of perseverance: Katherine Johnson's story is also a testament to the power of perseverance. She faced many obstacles throughout her career, including discrimination and sexism, but she never gave up. Her story shows that with persistence and resilience, we can overcome any challenge.
- A unique perspective on history: Counting on Katherine offers a unique perspective on history, highlighting the contributions of a woman who played a critical role in one of the most significant events of the 20th century. It reminds us that history is made up of many stories, and that everyone has a role to play in shaping our world.