'Lang's well-balanced coverage shares with audiences the vigor and daring that boosted Lowman into the canopy.and the global activism that now leads her to propose and develop sustainable commercial uses for protected rainforests. An intricate and satisfying portrait of a dedicated woman scientist, innovator, and activist.' - Kirkus Reviews an exciting tale of exploration and adventure that will capture the attention of budding scientists and environmentalists alike. Christy's striking illustrations use leafy patterns and repetition of vignettes to underscore the White woman's enthusiasm and determination. 'A nice addition to any rainforest or biography unit, this straightforward selection provides an inspiring portrayal and focuses on Lowman's inventiveness and dedication through engaging, poetic text augmented by original quotes. The Leaf Detective is a wonderful introduction to a scientist who discovered her life's passion by looking up.' - BookPage

It includes a lengthy author's note, a hefty bibliography and a vertical spread that illustrates the layers of a rainforest, which is worth the cost of admission all by itself.

The book's back matter is as excellent as the primary narrative. This is artwork you'll want to fall into face-first. Jana Christy's stunning illustrations of the rainforest foliage are appropriately lush and vibrant, brimming with cool-toned greens and blues. 'Lang's text is rich with metaphor and personification. NCSS Septma Clark Award, Elementary Level Honoree Working closely with Meg Lowman, author Heather Lang and artist Jana Christy beautifully capture Meg's world in the treetops. She studied, invented, and persevered, not only creating a future for herself as a scientist, but making sure that the rainforests had a future as well. Male teachers would not let her into their classrooms, the high canopy was difficult to get to, and worst of all, people were logging and clearing the forests. But she encountered challenge after challenge. Meg set out to climb up and investigate the rain forest tree canopies - and to be the first scientist to do so. Meg Lowman was always fascinated by the natural world above her head - the colors, the branches, and, most of all, the leaves and mysterious organisms living there. Description This picture book biography tells the story of Meg Lowman, a groundbreaking female scientist called a 'real life Lorax' by National Geographic, who was determined to investigate the marvelous, undiscovered world of the rainforest treetops.

The leaf detective