The Vast Wonder of the World

Biologist Ernest Everett Just

Millbrook Press
(pub. 11.1.2018)
40 pages

A True Tale with
A Cherry On Top   

A uthor: Melina Mangal
     Illustrator: Luisa Uribe

C haracter: Ernest Everett Just

O verview from the jacket flap: 
     "Ernest Everett Just was not like other scientists of his time. He saw the whole, where others saw only parts. He noticed details others failed to see. He persisted in his research despite the discrimination and limitations imposed on him as an African American. His keen observations of sea creatures revealed new insights about egg cells and the origins of life.
     Through stunning illustrations and lyrical prose, this picture book presents the life and accomplishments of this long-overlooked scientific pioneer."

T antalizing taste: 
      "The time came when Ernest refused to tolerate the segregation any longer. He decided to move to France and become an independent researcher.
     Crossing the Atlantic, Ernest thought about the hundreds of students he'd introduced to science and how his fascination with cells began. 
     He poured those memories and feelings into his work and completed a groundbreaking book.
     Through his careful observations and hard work, Ernest opened up the wonder of the universe to all of us, through a tiny egg cell."

    
and something more: In the extensive back matter of THE VAST WONDER OF THE WORLD, the author, Melina Mangal, explains: "Ernest came to prefer working in Europe, where scientists encouraged his unique approach to biology, which included both philosophy and science. Each time he sighted the Statue of Liberty when he returned from Europe, Ernest would say, 'This is where my liberty ends.'"