Change Is in the Air: The Hidden Discoveries of Eunice Newton Foote, the First Climate Scientist

Donnelly and López celebrate the acumen of American scientist and suffragist Eunice Newton Foote (1819–1888) in this engaging account of the subject’s work. Thorough text articulates the pivotal role played by Foote’s early education at Troy Female Seminary before discussing the figure’s embrace of suffrage and the independent, overlooked experimentation she undertakes to understand atmospheric temperature change, uncovering its link to carbon dioxide. Throughout, thick white outlining visualizes societal boxes constraining women and people of color, while matter-of-fact narration offers context around the era’s social norms. Not only was “a woman’s sphere... her home,” but many suffragists failed to take into account the position of Black women, “free or enslaved, who could not benefit from rights reserved for white people.” With thickly stroked paint, desaturated period illustrations contrast with vibrant contemporary hues that highlight Foote’s unappreciated prowess. Background characters are portrayed with various skin tones. Extensive back matter includes notes and a timeline. Ages 4–8. (Feb.)