When my son was in third grade, he researched and wrote a one-page biography about Mae Jemison. At the time, I don’t think there were any picture book biographies about her. The information he found focused on her science-based career trajectory. Not a bad thing. He’s now studying aerospace engineering, so that worked well for him. And it showed how Jemison’s persistence paid off. But for kids who have many different interests, it didn’t reflect how someone can pursue more than one path. This picture book biography shows how Jemison did just that.

Mae Jemison, the first Black female astronaut, loved both science and dance, and pursued both, ultimately weaving them together throughout her life.

Each spread shows her parallel interests, science on the verso page, dance on the recto.

Also interesting to note: Jemison made multiple choices throughout her life, first studying chemical engineering and dance. Then medicine and dance. Then working as doctor while still studying dance. And finally as an astronaut dancing in space. (Note to budding astronauts: you have to have a masters in a STEM degree to be a candidate.)

Jemison’s story offers a strong message that you don’t have to be or do just one thing. That you have time to figure out your career path. That you don’t have to narrow your interests. I’d say we should all embrace that message—unless you’re focusing on become a professional athlete whose career depends on youth.

Lukidis’ strong verbs and use of poetic devices make this book a pleasure to read, and the parallel structure works well throughout. I had to laugh when Jemison’s mom stepped in to say “You can always dance if you’re a doctor, but you can’t doctor if you’re a dancer.” Sounds like something my mom would have said. Probably why I became an engineer before turning to writing, LOL.

Activities:

Pair this book with Nigel and the Moon by Antwan Eady, illus. by Gracey Zhang, another book that speaks to kids who have more than one career interest.

Check out this engaging NASA video that answers questions from people who are interested in applying to become an astronaut. Another engaging video about the NASA training process. Or this video from the National Space Center about how to become an astronaut.

Make an origami dancer that changes positions.

Title: Dancing Through Space: Dr. Mae Jemison Soars to New Heights

Author: Lydia Lukidis

Illustrator: Sawyer Cloud

Publisher: Albert Whitman

Age: Elementary school

Themes: Careers, determination, STEM, STEAM

For more perfect picture book recommendations, please visit Susanna Hill’s website.