Book details

Macmillan Children's Book

Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13

Author: Helaine Becker; illustrations by Dow Phumiruk

Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13

Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13

$18.99

About This Book

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.

Page Count
40
On Sale
06/19/2018
Age Range
5-9

Book Details

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

Imprint Publisher

Henry Holt and Co. (BYR)

ISBN

9781250137524

In The News

A Junior Library Guild Selection
An NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Book
A NCTM Mathical Honor Book

Winner of the Bank Street Cook Prize
An NCSS Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People
An ILA Notable Book for a Global Society
An ILA Teachers’ Choices Reading List Selection
An Amelia Bloomer List Selection
A Chicago Public Library Best Book of the Year
A Vermont Red Clover Award Master List Selection
A Morning Calm Medal Nominee
A Towner Award Nominee
A Silver Birch Express Award Nominee
An Indiana Young Hoosier Book Award Nominee
A Louisiana Reader’s Choice Award Nominee
A UKLA Book Award Finalist

"A picture-book biography of a humble genius who excelled in a career once out of reach for most African-Americans. An excellent biography that will inspire young readers, especially girls, to do what they love."--Kirkus, starred review

"Children who want to share in the Hidden Figures buzz can start right here . . . Phumiruk’s digital artwork convincingly portrays Johnson as brainy and imaginative. This title is ready made for “My Hero” biography reports."--The Bulletin

"
Featuring engaging text and captivating illustrations, this picture book introduces the amazing life of mathematician Katherine Johnson to young readers. Sure to inspire a new generation of mathematicians. A solid addition to biography collections."--School Library Journal

"The straightforward, informative text is paired with delicate, precise digital artwork.
. . Very worthwhile book."--Booklist

"
Phumiruk works in a crisp, uncluttered art style, infusing emotionality into more private moments of reflection."--Publishers Weekly

About the Creators

Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13

Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13

$18.99