Breaking the Mold

Changing the face of climate science

Sixteen scientists. Protecting our planet. Making science more equitable.

Scientists who collect microbes from surfers’ skin, who use radar sensors to gather data miles away, who combat inequality by pushing for cleaner air policies. Each with their own story, all working to make life better for future generations.

Celebrated author Dana Alison Levy profiles 16 people, all studying different elements of the earth’s landscape, animals, and climate, who defy stereotypes of who can be a scientist. From analytical chemists to volcanologists, from global experts to recent graduates, these scientists share what they were like as young people, how they got where they are now, and what they—and the rest of us—can do to help the planet.

Based on extensive interviews and featuring infographics and personal photos, Breaking the Mold offers a snapshot of the people and organizations fighting to make science more equitable. Back matter includes advice for readers interested in science careers, DIY projects, paths to community involvement, and more.

Praise

"Levy profiles 16 boundary-pushing and innovative scientists in this gorgeously designed title...The subjects are diverse, in every sense of the word. They are representative of a wide swath of marginalized communities, including Indigenous tribes, those with visible and invisible disabilities, and people across the gender spectrum. The variety in the areas of scientific study is also substantial, including environmentalists, climate change activists, volcanologists, and urban ecologists. They hail from all parts of the world, working at a global scale and making important changes---in big and small ways.
VERDICT: This inspirational text about underrepresented folks in STEM fields is nonfiction at its best." -School Library Journal, starred review

“An inviting, inclusive introduction to notable figures in a critical field…. Their life stories both highlight the challenges the subjects faced in education and professional advancement as well as the ways their diverse perspectives and life experiences have enriched the progress of research in their fields and their mentorship of students. Ample color photos show the scientists in their work environments, and extensive sidebars explain related subjects and offer advice for readers…. Unusually attractive and intriguing.”-Kirkus Reviews

"Levy persuasively argues for inclusion, arming readers with critical thinking skills and positive representations of intersectionally diverse innovators. . . " - Publisher's Weekly