The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly was excellent. I can understand why it was selected as a Newbery honor book. Although written for young people, many adults will empathize with the characters and enjoy the setting and time period.
Set in rural Texas in the year 1899, the story follows an eleven-year-old girl as she discovers the natural world. With the help of her grandfather, Callie becomes increasingly interested in plants, insects, and investigation only to discover that young girls are expected to become ladies, not scientists.
The book easily immerses readers in the family life and culture at the turn of the 20th century. However many of the social and intellectual themes are timeless. For a middle grades book, the characters and plot are very well developed.
References to the Smithsonian, Alexander Bell, and Charles Darwin make the time period and the science of the times come alive. From descriptions of button-up shoes and needlepoint crafts to the transformation of a caterpillar into a moth, the balance of detail with action was outstanding.
Having grown up in the 60-70s when young girls were beginning to see opportunities beyond traditional roles, I could empathize with Callie. Whether writing in her nature notebook or digging in the dirt for plants, I could easily visualize myself in the character. If you enjoy the natural world and want to be transported back in time, pick up The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate for a great adventure.Get more detail about The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate.
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