COMET CHASER

Caroline Herschel’s intellectual curiosity sparkled like the stars that fascinated her.

Born and raised in Hannover, Germany, Caroline Herschel (1750-1848) seemed destined for life as a household drudge; her mother, who cared little about her daughter’s schooling, demanded Caroline do chores, while her four elder brothers were educated by their father. William, Caroline’s favorite brother, eventually moved to England and embarked on a successful music career. He cared deeply about his sister and urged her to come live with him. Their mother refused until William sent money to hire a servant. Caroline moved, and William taught her English, singing, and mathematics. She transcribed music and performed in his concerts. Star-gazing fascinated them both, and they built several brilliantly accurate telescopes and mapped star movements. Caroline easily worked out complicated calculations. The pair made major astronomical discoveries, but William Herschel is enshrined in astronomical history as the discoverer of Uranus. Caroline’s star also shone: She discovered a comet, for which George III awarded her a salary. Thus, Caroline Herschel became the world’s first professional female astronomer. (She discovered several more.) This captivating, well-written biographical picture book spotlights a brilliant, persevering woman who found her true calling in the skies; STEM-inclined readers should find her story especially fascinating and uplifting. Numerous quotes from Caroline Herschel appear throughout. Mildenberger’s paintings are awash in light; dark scenes gleam with stars.

An important historical personality receives deserved attention in this fine account.