Nothing Stopped Sophie

Nothing Stopped Sophie
The Story of Sophie Germain

"Nothing Stopped Sophie: The Story of Unshakable Mathematician Sophie Germain," written by Cheryl Bardoe and illustrated by Barbara McClintock, is an inspiring children's picture book that brings to life the remarkable journey of Sophie Germain, a pioneering mathematician in the 18th century. The book highlights her relentless determination to pursue her passion for mathematics, despite facing significant societal barriers as a woman in a male-dominated field.

From a young age, Sophie was captivated by numbers and equations, but her parents initially discouraged her interest by taking away her candles at night to prevent her from studying. Undeterred, she found ways to continue learning, often working in secret. The narrative emphasizes her perseverance and ingenuity as she adopted a male pseudonym to submit her work to professors, ultimately gaining recognition for her mathematical contributions. The book illustrates how Sophie tackled complex problems that many believed were unsolvable, reinforcing the message that persistence can lead to groundbreaking achievements.

"Nothing Stopped Sophie" not only celebrates Germain's accomplishments but also serves as a motivational tale for young readers, especially girls, encouraging them to pursue their interests in STEM fields. The book has garnered several awards, including the Golden Kite Honor Award and the Mathical Award Winner for grades K-2, underscoring its impact in promoting diversity in mathematics and science. Through engaging storytelling and beautiful illustrations, Bardoe and McClintock inspire a new generation to embrace their passions and overcome obstacles, just as Sophie did.

Author: Cheryl Bardoe

Cheryl Bardoe is an acclaimed author known for her engaging and inspiring children's books that highlight the lives of remarkable individuals, particularly in the fields of science and mathematics. In "Nothing Stopped Sophie," Bardoe's lyrical text brings to life the story of Sophie Germain, a pioneering 18th century mathematician who overcame numerous obstacles to pursue her passion for numbers and equations. Bardoe's precise writing and expert pacing have earned her critical acclaim, with reviewers praising her ability to craft compelling biographies that serve as "lessons in perseverance" for young readers.

Book Details:

Publisher: Little, Brown Young Readers
Format: Paperback
Print length: 40 pages
Dimensions: 26.29 x 1.4 x 26.54 cm
Reading age: 6-8 years old
Publication date: 6 12 July 2018
ISBN: 978-0316278201

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Why should children learn about Sophie Germain?

Sophie Germain's story is an inspiring example of perseverance and determination that can motivate children, especially girls, to pursue their passions in mathematics and science despite facing obstacles. Here are a few key reasons why learning about Sophie Germain is valuable for children:

Pursuing Passions with Determination: From a young age, Sophie was captivated by numbers and equations, and she refused to let anyone deter her from her dream of becoming a mathematician. Even when male scholars said her work on vibrating elastic surfaces was impossible, "still, nothing stopped Sophie" as she persisted in solving the problem. Her story demonstrates that with enough passion and persistence, one can achieve their goals.
Pioneering Achievements in Mathematics: Sophie Germain made important contributions to number theory, elasticity, and acoustics. Her work on Fermat's Last Theorem laid the foundation for future mathematicians exploring the problem for centuries. In 1816, she became the first woman to win a prize from the prestigious French Academy of Sciences for her groundbreaking formula on vibrating surfaces, which is still used in modern architecture today. Learning about her pioneering achievements in math inspires children to dream big.
Overcoming Lack of Formal Education: Despite never receiving a formal education in mathematics, Sophie taught herself the subject using books from her father's library. She overcame her haphazard training by developing unique insights and approaches. Her story shows children that a lack of traditional education does not have to limit one's potential for success.

In summary, Sophie Germain's life story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance and creativity. By learning about her inspiring journey, children gain motivation to pursue their own dreams, especially in STEM fields, and to never let obstacles stand in their way. Her pioneering achievements in mathematics also demonstrate the impact one person can make through determination and hard work.