Several of us know about Katherine Johnson and her involvement in NASA. There are a few adapted books for teens and several for adults, there is even the movie. Counting the Stars: The Story of Katherine Johnson, NASA Mathematician is another book on that subject. But at the same time, it is something more. Perhaps it was the illustrations, the mood I was in while reading or something else, but Lesa Cline-Ransome’s book is one that should be read. Even if you have read the others.
This book aimed at the older crowd (at least 5 if not 8 to 10 even) was a well-done introduction to the person and age appropriate. It does not gloss over the historical elements of race or gender, but does not let it be the focus, which is Johnson herself. The fact it is in a picture book format might turn off the ages that might get the most out of it. But it is also something your child can grow with. Perhaps my favorite part of the entire book was learning about her as a child. One can assume much about what happened to her as an adult, but seeing the child become the woman is always an interesting piece of the puzzle
Counting the Stars is both poetic and straight forward. The illustrations of Raul Colon are their classic style. Having an introduction is a nice way to be introduced to the character without a lot of extra to “bog you down.” Yet, you do not feel like there are any holes in the information. It also could inspire the reader to learn more about Johnson and the other women of the time.