First, I consider myself a feminist and for girl power and helping kids be their best. However, I also believe do not make things an “us and them” situation. The not subtle fact that our title character Charlotte, in Charlotte the Scientist Finds a Cure, is a girl doing science is great, but subconsciously it might turn off boys. Therefore, putting itself solidly in the “this is a girl book” category and boys might be less likely to pick it up.
Camille Andros has created a cozy book about “just because you are small you can still do big things.” Perhaps it gives unrealistic expectations (how many “little kids” could figure out a cure for an illness?), but if you talk with the child about limitations, that should not be an issue. However, the buzz phrase “STEM focus” and the “girl power” theme will either turn you on or off to it.
Second, I am all for science, but am more artistically based. I remember when schools were fighting to get arts represented. Then we started to promoted science and math again as they went to the side. Call it the poet in me, but there is a science to art and an art to science. I would love to have seen a mix of the two. I also would have liked to have seen less obvious “girl power” and seen it flow more naturally. I would have liked to have seen “kid power” or better yet, people power.
The illustrations, by Brianne Farley, are perhaps the best part. By reading them, you will see clues to what is going on. Plus, you will be able to read the story through their details, colors and expressions. The glossary in the back is helpful.
Overall, I liked this book and think most readers will, too. I am going to find the first book, Charlotte the Scientist Is Squished to see if this will help the personal bumps. And reread The Dress and the Girl, to see if they had a similar style.