Synopses & Reviews
An inspiration for young people who love to design, build, and work with their hands,
Women of Steel and Stone tells the stories of 22 female architects, engineers, and landscape designers from the 1800s to today. Engaging profiles based on historical research and firsthand interviews stress how childhood passions, perseverance, and creativity led these women to overcome challenges and break barriers to achieve great success in their professions. Subjects include Marion Mahony Griffin, who worked alongside Frank Lloyd Wright to establish his distinct architectural-drawing style; Emily Warren Roebling, who, after her husband fell ill, took over the duties of chief engineer on the Brooklyn Bridge project; Marian Cruger Coffin, a landscape architect who designed estates of Gilded Age mansions; Beverly L. Greene, the first African American woman in the country to get her architecture license; Zaha Hadid, one of todays best-known architects and the first woman to receive the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize; and many others. Practical information such as lists of top schools in each field; descriptions of specific areas of study and required degrees; and lists of programs for kids and teens, places to visit, and professional organizations, make this an invaluable resource for students, parents, and teachers alike.
Review
"What caused a few women to counter the trends and choose these professions? What difficulties did they face in fields so new to them? And did the influences that marked their early histories reveal themselves in their work and careers? Anna Lewiss book raises these questions, central for young people considering the future." —Denise Scott Brown, co-founder, Venturi, Scott Brown and Associates
Review
“A much-needed, clearly presented history.” —School Library Journal
Review
"Inspiring." —Booklist
Review
“A truly inspirational read, this is the kind of book that will motivate young readers to learn more about a field they may not have thought about much before.” —
VOYA “Its large font and abridged biographies make it perfect for teenagers or adults looking for a quick—but meaningful—read.” —GeekMom.com
Synopsis
Reporting on a range of historical and contemporary female builders and designers, this educational book strives to inspire a new generation of girls in the disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and math. With many of the profiles set against the backdrop of such landmark events as the womens suffrage and civil rights movements and the Industrial Revolution, and with original interviews from a number of current architects and engineers, this book provides inspiration and advice directly to young women by highlighting positive examples of how a strong work ethic, perseverance, and creativity can overcome lifes obstacles. Each profile focuses on the strengths, passions, and interests each woman had growing up; where those traits took them; and what they achieved. Sidebars on related topics, source notes, and a bibliography make this an invaluable resource for further study.
About the Author
Anna M. Lewis is an award-winning toy inventor and the owner of Ideasplash, a company that promotes child creativity through writing, websites, and classes and presentations in schools. She is a monthly contributor to the Interesting Nonfiction for Kids blog, and her articles have appeared in Appleseeds magazine, Odyssey magazine, and Toy Design Monthly. She lives in St. Charles, Illinois.