About This Book
Reach for this book when your child expresses a sense of not fitting in or possesses a deep, analytical curiosity about why different families have different rules. It is an ideal choice for the student who loves to observe others and wonders what life is like on the other side of the world. This biography follows Margaret Mead from her unconventional childhood to her groundbreaking work as an anthropologist in Samoa and New Guinea. Through her story, the book explores themes of independence, the value of cultural differences, and the courage required to pursue a scientific career as a woman in the early 20th century. At 56 pages, it is an accessible chapter book that introduces complex social studies concepts through a personal, human lens, making it perfect for children aged 7 to 11 who are beginning to look beyond their own neighborhoods.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book deals with cultural differences in a direct and respectful manner. There are brief, age-appropriate mentions of Mead's multiple marriages, handled in a secular and matter-of-fact way that focuses on her personal independence. The resolution is hopeful, emphasizing her lasting impact on science.
