Joan Procter, Dragon Doctor
The Woman Who Loved Reptiles
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5.0 • 1 Rating
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- $7.99
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- $7.99
Publisher Description
For fans of Ada Twist: Scientist comes a fascinating picture book biography of a pioneering female scientist--who loved reptiles!
Back in the days of long skirts and afternoon teas, young Joan Procter entertained the most unusual party guests: slithery and scaly ones, who turned over teacups and crawled past the crumpets.... While other girls played with dolls, Joan preferred the company of reptiles. She carried her favorite lizard with her everywhere--she even brought a crocodile to school!
When Joan grew older, she became the Curator of Reptiles at the British Museum. She went on to design the Reptile House at the London Zoo, including a home for the rumored-to-be-vicious komodo dragons. There, just like when she was a little girl, Joan hosted children's tea parties--with her komodo dragon as the guest of honor.
With a lively text and vibrant illustrations, scientist and writer Patricia Valdez and illustrator Felicita Sala bring to life Joan Procter's inspiring story of passion and determination.
A Chicago Public Library Best Book of the Year selection
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Valdez paints a portrait of a unique woman whose love for reptiles developed into a gratifying career. As a child, Joan Procter enjoyed the company of pet lizards, snakes, turtles, and even a crocodile. These interests led her to work as a curator at London's Natural History Museum a position made possible because many male scientists were serving in WWI. Her expertise resulted in an invitation to redesign the Reptile House at the London Zoo, and her particular fondness for the komodo dragons drew media attention. Sala's elegantly detailed art hints at the affinity between Procter and the reptiles, whose beadlike skin echoes the pearls in Procter's necklace, as its emerald hue matches her eyes. Back matter elaborates on Procter's unconventional passion and includes a photograph of her with her pet crocodile. Ages 4 8.
