The Children’s Book Review | March 19, 2019
RACHEL IGNOTOFSKY is a New York Times-bestselling author, illustrator, designer. She graduated from Tyler School of Art’s graphic design program and formerly worked as a senior designer and illustrator at Hallmark Greetings. Rachel and her work have been featured in many print and online media outlets such as the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, Scientific American, Science Friday, Brain Pickings, and more. She is the author of Women in Science, Women in Sports, and I Love Science.
I write because …
Growing up I struggled with learning to read. Then I discovered heavily illustrated books about science and history and comic book versions of classic books. All of a sudden reading was fun and these books made me feel like I was “a smart kid”. They gave me the confidence to approach hard subjects and learn in my own way. I write and illustrate non-fiction books for kids and adults to give them that same feeling and excitement about learning!
I read because …
I want to understand how and why our world is the way it is. I read scientific articles and papers, history books and hunt through old archives to read interviews given by interesting people.
My latest published book is …
The Wondrous Workings of Planet Earth
I wrote this book because …
One of the biggest problems we have is climate change and the pollution of our environment. But before we begin to talk about that we need to make sure everyone has a basic understanding of how Planet Earth works! This book explains the basics of earth science and ecology, teaches why nature is important, has a ton of fun facts about wildlife, and most importantly, shows the reader what we can do to protect our planet.
Best moment …
I gave a book talk at the NAT in San Diego and a 12-year-old girl told me how she was afraid of public speaking. My book Women In Science gave her the bravery to talk in front of her class by herself for the first time. After reading about Rosalind Franklin she was so excited to share Franklin’s story, that she stopped feeling afraid and gave a great presentation!
My special place to write is …
My big red chair next to the window.
Necessary writing/creativity tool …
My micron pens for drawing, and snacks to keep me going!
The person who has been my greatest writing teacher or inspiration is …
My graphic design professors at Tyler School of Art. They taught me the ins and outs and the fundamentals of creating a book. Everything I needed to know to become an author/illustrator including creating your own hand done typography, designing a cover and laying out an entire book.
Currently reading …
The Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish. It was the perfect audiobook to listen to while illustrating
Favorite bookshop …
Vroman’s in Pasadena!
All-time favorite children’s book I didn’t write…
Amelia’s Notebook. I was OBSESSED with those books as a kid. Loved all the doodles.
Favorite illustrator …
Mary Blair. She is still so iconic.
A literary character I would like to vacation with …
Ms. Frizzle from the Magic School Bus.
When I am not reading or writing I am …
Drawing! I spend most of my time creating the intricate illustrations and diagrams for my books.
When I am not working I usually can be found visiting a national park. I love a relaxing hike through nature.
The Wondrous Workings of Planet Earth
Written and Illustrated by Rachel Ignotofsky
Publisher’s Synopsis: An illustrated tour of the planet exploring ecosystems large and small, from reefs, deserts, and rainforests to a single drop of water—from the New York Times bestselling author of Women in Science.
Making earth science accessible and entertaining through art, maps, and infographics, The Wondrous Workings of Planet Earth explains how our planet works—and how we can protect it—from its diverse ecosystems and their inhabitants, to the levels of ecology, the importance of biodiversity, the cycles of nature, and more. Science- and nature-loving readers of all ages will delight in this utterly charming guide to our amazing home.
Ages 8+ | Publisher: Ten Speed Press | September 18, 2018 | ISBN-13: 978-0399580413
Available Here
Discover more books like The Wondrous Workings of Planet Earth, written and illustrated by Rachel Ignotofsky, by checking out our reviews and articles tagged with Books About Planets, Earth Day, Nature Studies, Rachel Ignotofsky, and Science; plus, be sure to follow along with our Writing and Reading Life series.
