Sandra Nickel Knihy

Vera Rubin's groundbreaking contributions to astronomy, particularly her discovery of dark matter, are central to her story. Despite facing gender bias in a male-dominated field, she persevered and made significant discoveries that have only recently gained recognition. Her work fundamentally altered our understanding of the universe, highlighting her resilience and the importance of her legacy in science.

"Joanne Simpson made groundbreaking-or should we say cloudbreaking-discoveries about weather and how it worked. Born in Massachusetts in 1923, she became interested in clouds while sailing in Cape Cod. As a young adult, she went to the University of Chicago and began studying and then teaching meteorology. After the war, women were expected to go back to being homemakers, but Joanne instead received her Masters Degree and began a PhD program. She decided to focus on tropical cumulous clouds, even though at the time no one thought that clouds affected the weather-they thought they were just a byproduct. Though the scientific establishment--mostly men--tried to stop her at every turn, her stubborn determination prevailed. She was the first woman in the United States to receive her PhD in meteorology, and her discoveries still affect how we think about clouds and the weather today!"--

The story highlights the unlikely friendship between a Big Bear and a Little Fish, showcasing how their contrasting traits lead them to discover shared qualities. Through their bond, the narrative emphasizes themes of acceptance and the beauty of diversity in friendship.

Following his instincts, a unique pigeon named Seven navigates life differently from his flock. Born alone, he decorates his nest with rose petals and is drawn to enticing scents like rice, peaches, and evergreens, rather than the typical pigeon behavior. When fog threatens to obscure their way home, Seven's exceptional sense of smell becomes crucial in guiding his lost flock back safely. This charming story, illustrated by Aimée Sicuro, highlights the beauty of individuality and the diverse ways beings find their way in the world.

The story explores the dynamic between two friends, Fish and Bear, highlighting Fish's creativity and Bear's struggle with decision-making. As Fish comes up with exciting ideas, Bear feels overwhelmed when it's her turn to contribute. This narrative delves into themes of friendship, creativity, and the challenges of self-expression, showcasing how different personalities can complement each other in playful and meaningful ways.