Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty

Though Ada Marie Twist doesn’t speak until she’s 3 years old, it’s obvious to her parents that she has “lots in her head.” The curious toddler relentlessly explores her small world till one day she speaks her first word—“Why?” Ada leaves creative chaos in her wake as she tries to find answers to her endless questions about everything she encounters. Though unsure of how to react to Ada, her loving parents encourage her and steer her away from danger when her exploits leave her at risk. Later, an insightful teacher realizes that Ada has what it takes to be a great scientist. In author’s notes, Andrea Beaty points out that “women have been scientists for as long as there has been science.” Beaty named the fictional protagonist of this vivacious, humorous, and rhyming children’s picture book after two scientists, Marie Curie and Ada Lovelace. Ada Twist, Scientist is a companion to Beaty’s earlier books, Rosie Revere, Engineer and Iggy Peck, Architect. (Harry N. Abrams)