The Bug Girl

Written by Sarah Glenn Marsh · Illustrated by Filippo Vanzo

A girl defies superstitions to uncover the secrets of insects and metamorphosis.

4.2/5 Goodreads · 107 ratings

32 pages· 1,335 words· Est. 11 min read-aloud

$16.99Save 7%

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Bookroo's summary

In the 1600s, Maria Sibylla Merian defies societal norms and superstitions to explore the mysterious world of insects. As she paints and studies these misunderstood creatures, she discovers the wonders of metamorphosis, challenging the belief that bugs are evil. Her groundbreaking work in entomology and scientific illustration pushes the boundaries of what women are expected to achieve. Will Maria's passion for the natural world earn her the recognition she deserves, or will society's fears hold her back? This beautifully illustrated biography reveals the journey of a pioneering woman who transformed both art and science.

From the publisher

Maria Sibylla Merian was fascinated with insects. But when Maria was a girl in the mid-1600s, superstitions about bugs prevented most people from taking a close look. People thought bugs were evil–and anyone interested in such creatures was surely evil too. That didn’t stop Maria. Filled with curiosity, she began to study and paint them. She even witnessed silkworms form cocoons and transform into moths–discovering metamorphosis! Painting and drawing as she studied, Maria pushed the boundaries of what girls were expected to do, eventually gaining recognition as one of the first entomologists and scientific illustrators. This gorgeously illustrated biography celebrates a fascinating female pioneer who broke boundaries in both the arts and sciences.

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