written by Julie Winterbottom, illustrated by Susan Reagan
48 pages, 6–9 years; published 2025 by Rocky Pond Books/Penguin Random House
Julie Winterbottom nails the opening line of Magic in a Drop of Water: “When Ruth Patrick was five years old, she fell in love with pond scum.” This biography shows how Ruth’s father nurtured her interest in nature and science. She went on to do groundbreaking research that proved the health of a river could be measured by the presence of diatoms (microscopic algae). The watercolor illustrations by Susan Reagan pair beautifully with this topic and contain marvelous details of aquatic life. Ruth Patrick’s fortitude against gender discrimination among scientists will inspire readers of all ages. This picture book highlights the power of persistence in following your dreams.