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Ordinary People Change the World
I am Jane Goodall
This tenth book in the New York Times bestselling biography series profiles Jane Goodall, the scientist and conservationist who is famous for her work with chimpanzees. (Cover may vary)
After receiving a stuffed animal chimpanzee for her first birthday, Jane Goodall's love of animals only grew. She saw what humans and animals had in common, not what makes us different, and used that to advocate for animal rights everywhere, becoming famous for her work with chimpanzees.
This friendly, fun biography series inspired the PBS Kids TV show Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. One great role model at a time, these books encourage kids to dream big. Included in each book
• A timeline of key events in the hero’s history
• Photos that bring the story more fully to life
• Comic-book-style illustrations that are irresistibly adorable
• Childhood moments that influenced the hero
• Facts that make great conversation-starters
• A virtue this person Jane Goodall's empathy is celebrated in this biography.
You’ll want to collect each book in this dynamic, informative series!
After receiving a stuffed animal chimpanzee for her first birthday, Jane Goodall's love of animals only grew. She saw what humans and animals had in common, not what makes us different, and used that to advocate for animal rights everywhere, becoming famous for her work with chimpanzees.
This friendly, fun biography series inspired the PBS Kids TV show Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. One great role model at a time, these books encourage kids to dream big. Included in each book
• A timeline of key events in the hero’s history
• Photos that bring the story more fully to life
• Comic-book-style illustrations that are irresistibly adorable
• Childhood moments that influenced the hero
• Facts that make great conversation-starters
• A virtue this person Jane Goodall's empathy is celebrated in this biography.
You’ll want to collect each book in this dynamic, informative series!
32 pages, Hardcover
First published September 6, 2016
36 people are currently reading
667 people want to read
About the author
Brad Meltzer
323 books7,435 followersBrad Meltzer is the Emmy-nominated, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Lightning Rod, The Escape Artist, and eleven other bestselling thrillers. He also writes non-fiction books like The JFK Conspiracy, about a secret plot to kill JFK before he was sworn in – and the Ordinary People Change the World kids book series, which he does with Chris Eliopoulos and inspired the PBS KIDS TV show, Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. His newest kids books are We are the Beatles, We are the Beatles, and I am Simone Biles. His newest inspirational book is Make Magic, based on his viral commencement address.
In addition to his fiction, Brad is one of the only authors to ever have books on the bestseller list for Non-Fiction (The Nazi Conspiracy), Advice (Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter), Children’s Books (I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln) and even comic books (Justice League of America), for which he won the prestigious Eisner Award.
He is also the host of Brad Meltzer’s Lost History and Brad Meltzer’s Decoded on the History Channel, and is responsible for helping find the missing 9/11 flag that the firefighters raised at Ground Zero, making national news on the 15th anniversary of 9/11. Meltzer unveiled the flag at the 9/11 Museum in New York, where it is now on display. See the video here. The Hollywood Reporter recently put him on their list of Hollywood’s 25 Most Powerful Authors.
He also recently delivered the commencement address at the University of Michigan, in front of 70,000 people, including his graduating son. Entitled Make Magic and called “one of the best commencement addresses of all time,” it’s been shared millions of times across social media. Do yourself a favor, watch it here and buy the book here.
For sure, it’s tough to find anyone being so successful in so many different mediums of the popular culture. But why does Brad thrive in all these different professions? His belief that ordinary people change the world. It is that core belief that runs through every one of his projects.
His newest thriller, The Lightning Rod, brings back characters Nola and Zig in a setting that will blow your mind (you won't believe where the government let Brad go). For now, we'll say this: What's the one secret no one knows about you? It's about to come out. Nearly 2,000 five-star reviews. Raves by everyone from the Wall Street Journal, to James Patterson, to Brad's mother-in-law. Plus that twist at the end! And yes, the new Zig & Nola thriller is coming soon!
His newest non-fiction book, The JFK Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Kennedy -- and Why It Failed, which he wrote with Josh Mensch, is a true story about a secret assassination plot to kill JFK at the start of his Presidency and, if successful, would’ve changed history.
His illustrated children’s books I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln, which he does with artist Chris Eliopoulos, were written for his own children, to give them better heroes to look up to. Try them. You won’t believe how inspired you and your family will be. Some of our favorites in the series are I am Mister Rogers and I am Dolly Parton.
His other non-fiction books, Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter, are collections of heroes – from Jim Henson to Sally Ride — that he’s been working on since the day his kids were born and is on sale now, as well as History Decoded: The 10 Greatest Conspiracies of All Time.
He’s also one of the co-creators of the TV show, Jack & Bobby.
Raised in Brooklyn and Miami, Brad is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Columbia Law School. The Tenth Justice was his first published work and became an instant New York Times bestseller. Dead Even followed a year later and also hit the New York Times bestseller list, as have all thirteen of his novels. The First Counsel came next, which was about a White House lawyer dating the President’s daughter, then The Millionaires, which was about two brothers who
In addition to his fiction, Brad is one of the only authors to ever have books on the bestseller list for Non-Fiction (The Nazi Conspiracy), Advice (Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter), Children’s Books (I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln) and even comic books (Justice League of America), for which he won the prestigious Eisner Award.
He is also the host of Brad Meltzer’s Lost History and Brad Meltzer’s Decoded on the History Channel, and is responsible for helping find the missing 9/11 flag that the firefighters raised at Ground Zero, making national news on the 15th anniversary of 9/11. Meltzer unveiled the flag at the 9/11 Museum in New York, where it is now on display. See the video here. The Hollywood Reporter recently put him on their list of Hollywood’s 25 Most Powerful Authors.
He also recently delivered the commencement address at the University of Michigan, in front of 70,000 people, including his graduating son. Entitled Make Magic and called “one of the best commencement addresses of all time,” it’s been shared millions of times across social media. Do yourself a favor, watch it here and buy the book here.
For sure, it’s tough to find anyone being so successful in so many different mediums of the popular culture. But why does Brad thrive in all these different professions? His belief that ordinary people change the world. It is that core belief that runs through every one of his projects.
His newest thriller, The Lightning Rod, brings back characters Nola and Zig in a setting that will blow your mind (you won't believe where the government let Brad go). For now, we'll say this: What's the one secret no one knows about you? It's about to come out. Nearly 2,000 five-star reviews. Raves by everyone from the Wall Street Journal, to James Patterson, to Brad's mother-in-law. Plus that twist at the end! And yes, the new Zig & Nola thriller is coming soon!
His newest non-fiction book, The JFK Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Kennedy -- and Why It Failed, which he wrote with Josh Mensch, is a true story about a secret assassination plot to kill JFK at the start of his Presidency and, if successful, would’ve changed history.
His illustrated children’s books I Am Amelia Earhart and I Am Abraham Lincoln, which he does with artist Chris Eliopoulos, were written for his own children, to give them better heroes to look up to. Try them. You won’t believe how inspired you and your family will be. Some of our favorites in the series are I am Mister Rogers and I am Dolly Parton.
His other non-fiction books, Heroes for My Son and Heroes for My Daughter, are collections of heroes – from Jim Henson to Sally Ride — that he’s been working on since the day his kids were born and is on sale now, as well as History Decoded: The 10 Greatest Conspiracies of All Time.
He’s also one of the co-creators of the TV show, Jack & Bobby.
Raised in Brooklyn and Miami, Brad is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Columbia Law School. The Tenth Justice was his first published work and became an instant New York Times bestseller. Dead Even followed a year later and also hit the New York Times bestseller list, as have all thirteen of his novels. The First Counsel came next, which was about a White House lawyer dating the President’s daughter, then The Millionaires, which was about two brothers who
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
April 17, 2020
Jane Goodall is an amazing person. She was one of the people who started the movement of caring for the planet.
- The most interesting fact I got from this book was she read the book ‘Doctor Doolittle’ as a child and she loved that book dearly. She read it 3 times before returning it to the library and that’s when she wanted to work with animals. That was the start of her dreaming big.
She also got a stuffed Monkey as a child called Jubilee.
She was a very patient child. She wanted to know how a chicken laid an egg and so she buried herself in the straw of the henhouse and waited hours watching the hens until she saw the egg laid. It’s amazing that a child has that much patience.
Jane was so amazing and willing to strike out on her own. She was a woman doing something women weren’t supposed to do. Nothing would stop her. I love to see women with that story. I want to live that way too. I have gotten through most of this series. It is really so great for kids.
The nephew was amazed by this. He wanted to do some of this stuff and I told him he doesn’t have the ability to be that still. He’s too wiggly and working with animals you have to be still. He told me he was able to be still. Anyway. He gave this 4 stars.
Jane has a great national group for teens called Roots and Shoots to help work with animals. There is a website so check it out.
- The most interesting fact I got from this book was she read the book ‘Doctor Doolittle’ as a child and she loved that book dearly. She read it 3 times before returning it to the library and that’s when she wanted to work with animals. That was the start of her dreaming big.
She also got a stuffed Monkey as a child called Jubilee.
She was a very patient child. She wanted to know how a chicken laid an egg and so she buried herself in the straw of the henhouse and waited hours watching the hens until she saw the egg laid. It’s amazing that a child has that much patience.
Jane was so amazing and willing to strike out on her own. She was a woman doing something women weren’t supposed to do. Nothing would stop her. I love to see women with that story. I want to live that way too. I have gotten through most of this series. It is really so great for kids.
The nephew was amazed by this. He wanted to do some of this stuff and I told him he doesn’t have the ability to be that still. He’s too wiggly and working with animals you have to be still. He told me he was able to be still. Anyway. He gave this 4 stars.
Jane has a great national group for teens called Roots and Shoots to help work with animals. There is a website so check it out.
June 18, 2019
Very cute book. Jane Goodall is an example of courage, she did not accept the answer "it's not for women". Her story should be told to our children and this book is a good way to start. The illustrations are beautiful and the book is written in an appealing way for children. Women are following Jane's example and fighting for their dreams. Go Girls!
April 9, 2025
نکتهی بامزهی این کتاب این بود که جین گودال حتی در عنفوان کودکی (!) هم با موهای بلند سفید به تصویر کشیده شده بود :))
April 10, 2025
کیوت بود.
August 22, 2018
It was a pleasant read full of colorful illustrations! Dr. Jane Goodall is one of my favorite human beings for she cares for nature and animals while others are destroying our mother earth in many evil ways. I have been following her activities on social media for a long time. She is such a kind soul! As a matter of fact, this world needs more Jane Goodall.
While roaming through the GR homepage I found Brad Meltzer's book written about her as a form of biography for school kids and I believe it would inspire children in many ways, ranging from being kind to being ambitious at the same time! Dr. Jane Goodall was a very ordinary kid who never finished her graduation, however, she made a great difference in this world because she knew perfectly well what she wants and she stuck up to that dream!
While roaming through the GR homepage I found Brad Meltzer's book written about her as a form of biography for school kids and I believe it would inspire children in many ways, ranging from being kind to being ambitious at the same time! Dr. Jane Goodall was a very ordinary kid who never finished her graduation, however, she made a great difference in this world because she knew perfectly well what she wants and she stuck up to that dream!
March 24, 2018
I like these books. They are excellent introduction to some truly extraordinary people. It is a wide range of people - there are men, women, entertainers, scientists, civil rights leaders, etc. I get the idea behind having the subject look like a kid throughout the whole story but it does make it difficult to figure out a timeline.
November 7, 2018
I love this whole series but I really loved this one. Such a great story of empowerment and how we can change the world.
June 13, 2020
Read by the wondrous Dr. Jane Goodall herself !!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RFBlN...
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RFBlN...
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November 30, 2018
This book demonstrates at least some of the qualities of a good hagiography in that the subject of the book gave it an approving blurb. It is always worthwhile on at least some level when the subject of a book approves what is said in it. That said, I do not think that biographies, even those meant for children, should be hagiographies. I do not think it appropriate to write hit pieces that are meant to destroy positive feeling towards people either, but there is something to be said for presenting people in all their complexity and letting children come up to their own opinions. There are far too many saints' tales and villain tales and most people are neither, at least neither entirely. Most people who are considered as heroes have some sort of dark side to their lives and behavior, and most people who are reviled in history have at least some way of making a positive case for themselves and their ideals, and we as human beings have to pick through the justifications and accusations and figure out what matters more, if we wish to engage in that task at all. We could simply leave it up to God, as it were.
Anyway, this particular book tells the story of someone who is easy to relate to and easy to sympathize with, namely Jane Goodall, whose care and concern for chimps helped the world see their individuality and sense of community in their natural environment. We may say, although the book does not use the language, that Jane Goodall was particularly gifted in naturalistic observation and in drawing appropriate conclusions from those, and the fact that the book focuses on her efforts and investigations and generosity of spirit is genuinely appealing. If the book is not perfect (more on that below), the author at least understands and wants to convey what is worthwhile about Jane Goodall, and that is her kindness towards animals and her willingness to see them for what they are, rather than see them only through prejudiced eyes. If chimpanzees are not human, they are at least very intelligent animals with personalities and a high degree of creativity and worth as animals. They are worthy of respect and interest, and this book certainly encourages readers to give both to the animals that Goodall spent so long studying in their native habitats.
Although this book is very good, it is not perfect. Again, as is generally the case, the question is one of framing. As already mentioned, part of this framing is my dislike of hagiography as a whole as being the proper model for writing biographies aimed at children. Why should we disappoint children by telling them to believe in heroes and then, when they are older, spending so much time and effort in debunking their heroism by pointing out their flaws. It is better for children to wrestle with flaws and complexities while preserving a sense of idealism, so that people can see what is good and recognize that we all have feet of clay in at least some aspects of our lives. In addition to this, the author presents Goodall as being unqualified for her research work but having benefited from a certain degree of favoritism from a well-established researcher in primate studies in Africa. While the author presents this sort of favor as being an unmixed blessing, it is easy to see that others may disagree and see Goodall's work as less valuable and less reliable for her lacking the sort of credentials that give one respect in the scientific community. That said, this book should encourage those who enjoy research but do not enjoy endless years of study. We can gain a great deal of insight by looking at people or animals or even plants in their natural habitat and being willing to engage in what we see and observe with an attitude of warmth and friendliness.
Anyway, this particular book tells the story of someone who is easy to relate to and easy to sympathize with, namely Jane Goodall, whose care and concern for chimps helped the world see their individuality and sense of community in their natural environment. We may say, although the book does not use the language, that Jane Goodall was particularly gifted in naturalistic observation and in drawing appropriate conclusions from those, and the fact that the book focuses on her efforts and investigations and generosity of spirit is genuinely appealing. If the book is not perfect (more on that below), the author at least understands and wants to convey what is worthwhile about Jane Goodall, and that is her kindness towards animals and her willingness to see them for what they are, rather than see them only through prejudiced eyes. If chimpanzees are not human, they are at least very intelligent animals with personalities and a high degree of creativity and worth as animals. They are worthy of respect and interest, and this book certainly encourages readers to give both to the animals that Goodall spent so long studying in their native habitats.
Although this book is very good, it is not perfect. Again, as is generally the case, the question is one of framing. As already mentioned, part of this framing is my dislike of hagiography as a whole as being the proper model for writing biographies aimed at children. Why should we disappoint children by telling them to believe in heroes and then, when they are older, spending so much time and effort in debunking their heroism by pointing out their flaws. It is better for children to wrestle with flaws and complexities while preserving a sense of idealism, so that people can see what is good and recognize that we all have feet of clay in at least some aspects of our lives. In addition to this, the author presents Goodall as being unqualified for her research work but having benefited from a certain degree of favoritism from a well-established researcher in primate studies in Africa. While the author presents this sort of favor as being an unmixed blessing, it is easy to see that others may disagree and see Goodall's work as less valuable and less reliable for her lacking the sort of credentials that give one respect in the scientific community. That said, this book should encourage those who enjoy research but do not enjoy endless years of study. We can gain a great deal of insight by looking at people or animals or even plants in their natural habitat and being willing to engage in what we see and observe with an attitude of warmth and friendliness.
February 9, 2020
My Biography WOW book that I chose is “I Am Jane Goodall” written by Brad Meltzer (Illustrations by Christopher Eliopoulos). This book describes the life of Jane Goodall and how she grew up fascinated with animals, which led her to eventually go to Africa and study animals. Jane Goodall was 23 years old when she first went to Africa and her love of animals only grew after meeting Dr. Louis Leakey, an anthropologist and paleontologist who hired her as a secretary and invited her to study chimpanzees. Jane Goodall studied chimpanzees at what is now the Gombe National Park in Tanzania, Africa and after being extremely patient and observant, she was able to learn that contrary to what scientists formerly thought, chimpanzees had “personalities”, were intelligent, and had behaviors similar to humans. Jane Goodall showed the world that animals have personalities and complex relationships, and that to learn new things it’s important to “break the status quo” and trust your gut rather than what everyone tells you that you should or shouldn’t do.
This book is geared toward students in 3rd Grade and includes pictures and heavy text with some dialogue in “text bubbles”. I would use this book in my classroom by using it as a read aloud to connect with science instruction on ecosystems and animals. I could also pair this book with a discussion about important women in history and bring in other literature about other important women in history. Also, there are other “I am ___” books written by Brad Meltzer about important historical figures, so I could even use multiple of his books to have my students do a Classroom Museum where each of my students has a different historical figure that they have to read about, dress up as, and present to their other classmates.
This book was a WOW book for me because I also grew up with a strong love of animals so I could relate to Jane Goodall’s desire to learn more about them and research them. I also was surprised by the fact that I had never learned about Jane Goodall until I was introduced to this book in ELM 335, because I had heard the name Jane Goodall before but never knew why she was important. I also was just wowed by the content and illustration of this book and the others written by Brad Meltzer because I think they are informative books, but also so much fun to read and look at. If I had these books in elementary school, I think I would have read every single one that I could find.
This book is geared toward students in 3rd Grade and includes pictures and heavy text with some dialogue in “text bubbles”. I would use this book in my classroom by using it as a read aloud to connect with science instruction on ecosystems and animals. I could also pair this book with a discussion about important women in history and bring in other literature about other important women in history. Also, there are other “I am ___” books written by Brad Meltzer about important historical figures, so I could even use multiple of his books to have my students do a Classroom Museum where each of my students has a different historical figure that they have to read about, dress up as, and present to their other classmates.
This book was a WOW book for me because I also grew up with a strong love of animals so I could relate to Jane Goodall’s desire to learn more about them and research them. I also was surprised by the fact that I had never learned about Jane Goodall until I was introduced to this book in ELM 335, because I had heard the name Jane Goodall before but never knew why she was important. I also was just wowed by the content and illustration of this book and the others written by Brad Meltzer because I think they are informative books, but also so much fun to read and look at. If I had these books in elementary school, I think I would have read every single one that I could find.
February 26, 2019
At first, I wasn’t quite looking forward to reading a book of the biography genre. However, after being introduced to Brad Meltzer’s “Ordinary People Change the World” series of biographies, by none other than my lovely reading methods professor Dr. Ann Harrington, my outlook on this genre brightened up. Jane’s story embodies the idea of chasing your dreams despite what society may attempt to limit you to. Meltzer’s I am Jane Goodall would be appropriate for third graders as they are getting introduced to the ideas of autobiographies and biographies.
One way in which I could incorporate this book into my instruction, is use the “Guess Yes or No” comprehension framework. Before my students read the book I would have them answer questions in which they would use prior knowledge or simply make an educated guess. As they read the book, they will refer back to their guesses and decipher which ones they got correct and which ones they did not. If they did get one of the statements wrong they would simply change it to match the correct answer. I would also like to use this biography as a way to start a discourse about primary and secondary sources. I would likely have students read this book and an actual autobiography. After which students could complete compare and contrast bubbles.
One reason I fell in love with this book is because it defies the “norms” and restraints which society often tries to put on who you are and what you are able to achieve. No matter your age, race, nationality, gender, class, or etc you should be allowed the opportunity to pursue whatever you feel defines your happiness. “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” - Jane Goodall
One way in which I could incorporate this book into my instruction, is use the “Guess Yes or No” comprehension framework. Before my students read the book I would have them answer questions in which they would use prior knowledge or simply make an educated guess. As they read the book, they will refer back to their guesses and decipher which ones they got correct and which ones they did not. If they did get one of the statements wrong they would simply change it to match the correct answer. I would also like to use this biography as a way to start a discourse about primary and secondary sources. I would likely have students read this book and an actual autobiography. After which students could complete compare and contrast bubbles.
One reason I fell in love with this book is because it defies the “norms” and restraints which society often tries to put on who you are and what you are able to achieve. No matter your age, race, nationality, gender, class, or etc you should be allowed the opportunity to pursue whatever you feel defines your happiness. “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” - Jane Goodall
January 19, 2019
This series is my favorite go to present for children, but this one in particular is my favorite. It's the one my daughter gravitates more to and even inspired her Halloween costume. Jane Goodall's passion for animal is contagious, but what I really appreciate the most is her curiosity and not allowing obstacles to get in her way of discovery. She is a god, I just love her. This book really dives into her childhood which I wasn't expecting to in a book geared for children. I even find this series much more engaging than the popular Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls, but this is written by a male.. but nonetheless it's gold. Great book and great series.
September 8, 2016
While this is my first book read in the series, I'm fascinated by the text and illustrations with my only caveat that the main character, the illustrious Jane Goodall remains "small" / childlike throughout the story of her exploration of chimpanzees in the wild. I was a bit off put by that but assume all are like that in this biographical series?
Otherwise, great synopsis of the elemental ways that she contributed to science for women, about primates, studying in the natural world, etc.
Otherwise, great synopsis of the elemental ways that she contributed to science for women, about primates, studying in the natural world, etc.
September 6, 2016
A strong addition to a series I absolutely love. This book definitely seemed more text heavy than the previous ones. I loved the message that Jane Goodall imparts and I hope it inspires readers to think about the world in a different way. (Actually the book is chock full of great messages!)
February 20, 2017
Very good autobiographical picture book about Jane Goodall. I didn't know anything about her other than the fact she studied chimpanzees. I didn't not know anything about her history. This series is so good from Brad Meltzer. I think adults would like it as well.
June 20, 2017
Love this book on Jane Goodall's life from a young life and loving her stuffed animal chimpanzee, Jubilee. Follow Jane as a young environmentalist who even started a nature club and then how she got to Africa. Excellent biography on a timeless, well loved person to look upto.
June 10, 2018
“We don’t own this Earth. We share it.”
After reading The Story of Dr. Doolittle, Jane Goodall vowed to go to Africa and live among the animals. Even though people didn’t think girls could become scientists, Jane knew with hard work and persistence, she could find a way.
After reading The Story of Dr. Doolittle, Jane Goodall vowed to go to Africa and live among the animals. Even though people didn’t think girls could become scientists, Jane knew with hard work and persistence, she could find a way.
October 10, 2018
Written in the first person, as though it is an autobiography. Very cute and adorable. Very informative, I learned a lot. Describes her life chronologically and includes and ethical message at the end. Very attractive structure, format, and illustrations.
September 7, 2016
Best series ever. =) This one seemed longer than the others so as a read aloud it was harder to keep the focus of little ones but it's still AMAZING!
March 27, 2017
I LOVE this series of simple, short picture book biographies. A great way to pique kid's interest in important historical figures.
January 19, 2018
Great pictures and such a fun way for keeping Dr to learn about Jane Goodall!
January 13, 2020
Another great story to learn about an amazing woman! I loved hearing about her start and how she didn't listen to the ones that said girls-can't-do-it!
April 19, 2018
I Am Jane Goodall, a Biography, is a book about a woman, Jane, who took her love for nature and animals and changed how we looked at them.
The book starts out by describing Jane as a child who loved everything that had to do with animals. Whether it was her stuffed animal or the worms from the garden, she was drawn to them. The emphasis on her love of animals from an early age is what led me to believe this book was going to be about her work with them. As a child, she was always curious about the ways of animals and read about (Dr. Dolittle) and did her own research (finding out where the egg came from). As she got older, she devoted her work to animals such as going to Africa and observing what she saw. One factor of this book that also made it a good life lesson was when Jane talked about what she had to overcome to get there. She was told that if you were a girl, people didn't think that you could become a scientist but that did not stop her. She was also told that women could not be alone in the forest but she got a companion and went anyways. Her research and observations led humans to see that animals were more like us than we thought. She also advocates for taking care of this planet and the environment we live in. She has been a very influential FEMALE scientist.
I would use this book when talking to my students about scientists. I feel like learning about Jane would give them a more open idea of who can be a scientist and what you can do if you are. I feel like most children have this idea that scientists are males working in a lab so this book would definitely challenge their views and open their minds. I would also read this book or have this book as an option for my students to read for Earth Day. The message of human animal interaction is important, and the book also relates it to taking care of the environment as a whole and how we are responsible.
This book was a WOW book for me because of how it is full of information, but not in a boring way. Most biographies you read, whether they be articles or books, are slow moving and full of information without much story line to it. This book was interesting and informational at the same time. This could inspire children to learn more about people without dreading the reading part of it. I most definitely want this series of books in my future classroom.
The book starts out by describing Jane as a child who loved everything that had to do with animals. Whether it was her stuffed animal or the worms from the garden, she was drawn to them. The emphasis on her love of animals from an early age is what led me to believe this book was going to be about her work with them. As a child, she was always curious about the ways of animals and read about (Dr. Dolittle) and did her own research (finding out where the egg came from). As she got older, she devoted her work to animals such as going to Africa and observing what she saw. One factor of this book that also made it a good life lesson was when Jane talked about what she had to overcome to get there. She was told that if you were a girl, people didn't think that you could become a scientist but that did not stop her. She was also told that women could not be alone in the forest but she got a companion and went anyways. Her research and observations led humans to see that animals were more like us than we thought. She also advocates for taking care of this planet and the environment we live in. She has been a very influential FEMALE scientist.
I would use this book when talking to my students about scientists. I feel like learning about Jane would give them a more open idea of who can be a scientist and what you can do if you are. I feel like most children have this idea that scientists are males working in a lab so this book would definitely challenge their views and open their minds. I would also read this book or have this book as an option for my students to read for Earth Day. The message of human animal interaction is important, and the book also relates it to taking care of the environment as a whole and how we are responsible.
This book was a WOW book for me because of how it is full of information, but not in a boring way. Most biographies you read, whether they be articles or books, are slow moving and full of information without much story line to it. This book was interesting and informational at the same time. This could inspire children to learn more about people without dreading the reading part of it. I most definitely want this series of books in my future classroom.
April 23, 2018
The book I am Jane Goodall is a biography about what experiences made Jane Goodall who she is today. In this book, Jane Goodall, inspires young women to believe in their science abilities and reach for their dreams. She also recognizes the importance of the likeness between humans and animals. She noted that it is important for us to value animals and the lessons that they can teach us. When it comes to independent reading I would use this book in a third or fourth grade classroom. However, if I was planning to do a read aloud this book could be used for a younger grade.
One of the first ways I would use this book is to talk about the introduction of women into the science field. Jane Goodall was one of the first women to break the barrier and be successful in doing so. Many people hear the name Jane Goodall and only think of her work with the chimpanzees (I was guilty of this.) We often forget about all of the struggles she had to go through before she became this successful woman scientist. This could lead us into the discussion of what a scientist can look like and how anyone can be a scientist, not just the typical stereotype of a white man in a white lab coat with goggles. Another topic we can talk about is the importance of respecting our animals and their natural habitats. There are too many animals that are either endangered or heading to the title of endangered because of human intervention. In this book Jane Goodall displays what it means to learn and observe animals while also respecting their habitats and their personalities. It’s important for our students to learn what it means to respect nature and the animals that live near and far.
This book was a wow book for me because of the wonderful illustrations and more importantly the dialogue bubbles. Too many times I have witnessed students disregarding the dialogue bubbles because the believe the words inside are not important or they just want to finish the book quickly. The awesome thing about this book is to fully understand what is happening you have to read every word on the page, including the dialogue bubbles. This is one of the main reasons I love the I am series and could really see myself using them in my future classroom.
One of the first ways I would use this book is to talk about the introduction of women into the science field. Jane Goodall was one of the first women to break the barrier and be successful in doing so. Many people hear the name Jane Goodall and only think of her work with the chimpanzees (I was guilty of this.) We often forget about all of the struggles she had to go through before she became this successful woman scientist. This could lead us into the discussion of what a scientist can look like and how anyone can be a scientist, not just the typical stereotype of a white man in a white lab coat with goggles. Another topic we can talk about is the importance of respecting our animals and their natural habitats. There are too many animals that are either endangered or heading to the title of endangered because of human intervention. In this book Jane Goodall displays what it means to learn and observe animals while also respecting their habitats and their personalities. It’s important for our students to learn what it means to respect nature and the animals that live near and far.
This book was a wow book for me because of the wonderful illustrations and more importantly the dialogue bubbles. Too many times I have witnessed students disregarding the dialogue bubbles because the believe the words inside are not important or they just want to finish the book quickly. The awesome thing about this book is to fully understand what is happening you have to read every word on the page, including the dialogue bubbles. This is one of the main reasons I love the I am series and could really see myself using them in my future classroom.
February 26, 2018
I am Jane Goodall by Brad Meltzer is a children's biography about a female environmentalist who changed the world's perspective on the relationship between animals and humans. Through the intriguing illustrations and interesting text, students will learn about the struggles that Jane Goodall faced as she made her way into the science field. The amount of text and difficulty of some words make it most appropriate for a 3rd or 4th grade classroom. It could be used as a read aloud for younger grades but in my opinion it would be most effective in 3rd or 4th grade.
This book can be used for a variety of different instructional purposes. The first idea I had was an introduction on women in science. Jane Goodall was one of the very first women to try and break into the science field and was successfully able to do so. Most people just think about her work with chimpanzees but often forget about all the struggles she had to face to get to that point. This would open students minds to what a "scientist" can look like and do. The typical stereotype that a lot of students think of is a older white male with crazy hair and a lab coat. However, Jane proves that a scientist can look and be whatever you want. I would also use this book as an informational text about the relationship between animals and humans. Students can compare and contrast the relationship between animals and humans before and after Jane's research.
This book was a WOW book for me because it was so enjoyable to read. I loved all the illustrations including the dialogue bubbles. I found this book to be very inspiring as well as informational. I learned about Jane Goodall in high school but really only briefly, so this was a really fun and cute extension of what I already knew about her. I really enjoy all the books in the I am... series and think that I will use them often in my future classroom.
This book can be used for a variety of different instructional purposes. The first idea I had was an introduction on women in science. Jane Goodall was one of the very first women to try and break into the science field and was successfully able to do so. Most people just think about her work with chimpanzees but often forget about all the struggles she had to face to get to that point. This would open students minds to what a "scientist" can look like and do. The typical stereotype that a lot of students think of is a older white male with crazy hair and a lab coat. However, Jane proves that a scientist can look and be whatever you want. I would also use this book as an informational text about the relationship between animals and humans. Students can compare and contrast the relationship between animals and humans before and after Jane's research.
This book was a WOW book for me because it was so enjoyable to read. I loved all the illustrations including the dialogue bubbles. I found this book to be very inspiring as well as informational. I learned about Jane Goodall in high school but really only briefly, so this was a really fun and cute extension of what I already knew about her. I really enjoy all the books in the I am... series and think that I will use them often in my future classroom.
April 22, 2018
This biography of Jane Goodall is appropriate for any grades as a read aloud and would be wonderful to teach 3rd through 5th graders about the Earth and the importance in fighting for what they are passionate about. The story allows students a connection to Jane Goodall, as it shows her story from a very young age and represents how students can be influenced young by their passions to one day become people who change the world. The story also shows that Jane Goodall was inspired by others just as I believe the students will be inspired by her and the other things they read.
This would be a great way to introduce the importance of nature and being true to ourselves. Beyond those life lessons and building a passionate and caring student, the story could be used to show main ideas of texts, as there are common themes of loving nature and fighting for what you love throughout her entire story. This story would also be a great book to have students to use visual images to help them comprehend the story.
The story is a wow book in my opinion because nature is an important factor in each students life. Beyond the nature aspect of the story, Jane Goodall is a inspiration to students for fighting for what made her passionate and sticking to what she knew she wanted to do in her heart, even as people doubted her. We see in the story that her mother was supportive of her, but others who saw her for a girl and didn't see far beyond that.
This would be a great way to introduce the importance of nature and being true to ourselves. Beyond those life lessons and building a passionate and caring student, the story could be used to show main ideas of texts, as there are common themes of loving nature and fighting for what you love throughout her entire story. This story would also be a great book to have students to use visual images to help them comprehend the story.
The story is a wow book in my opinion because nature is an important factor in each students life. Beyond the nature aspect of the story, Jane Goodall is a inspiration to students for fighting for what made her passionate and sticking to what she knew she wanted to do in her heart, even as people doubted her. We see in the story that her mother was supportive of her, but others who saw her for a girl and didn't see far beyond that.
February 22, 2019
I was so excited to read this book during class because I had this minor obsession with both Jane Goodall and monkeys all throughout elementary school and part of middle school. Getting the chance to read this biography reminded me of what an amazing human Jane Goodall is and how many advancements she has made in regards to animals throughout her life. She is such an empowering figure and she was able to overcome so much too with just being a woman in the science field and I think she would be an inspiring figure for any of my future female students who may want to go into science! The illustrations throughout the book also help with readers being able to visualize all of her work.
I think all of the I Am books that Meltzer has written would be beneficial to have in all elementary school classrooms but for students to read, this would probably be best for grades 3-5. I would use this book when teaching about biographies and what is awesome about biographies is that we can also tie in social studies with who they are learning about. I also really love the idea of doing a classroom wax museum and this book would be a great suggestion for students who may want to dress up and act as Ms. Goodall. Though the book is on the shorter side and has pictures, you end the book with so much knowledge of her life that I think a lot of the student’s research could be complete after finishing the book!
I think all of the I Am books that Meltzer has written would be beneficial to have in all elementary school classrooms but for students to read, this would probably be best for grades 3-5. I would use this book when teaching about biographies and what is awesome about biographies is that we can also tie in social studies with who they are learning about. I also really love the idea of doing a classroom wax museum and this book would be a great suggestion for students who may want to dress up and act as Ms. Goodall. Though the book is on the shorter side and has pictures, you end the book with so much knowledge of her life that I think a lot of the student’s research could be complete after finishing the book!
January 1, 2025
A wonderful introduction to Jane Goodall and the world of primatology and anthropology for young readers. I appreciate that it has a few anecdotes from Goodall's childhood, but what I found more endearing was how clearly it outlines that chimpanzees, and by extension, animals are intelligent beings deserving of respect and kindness. I like that the book kept the language and tone simple and not too technical. For my 4 year olds, this was enough. Would recommend it to young and very young readers. The illustrations by Christopher Eliopoulos were nice, although I did sort of wonder why they chose to illustrate even an infant and a little older Jane Goodall with a face that had wizened facial features and the beautiful grey hair ponytail. Maybe it was an attempt to keep it simple and relatable for young readers.
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November 5, 2025succinct but precise encapsulation of Dr. Goodall's childhood and youth. Geared towards early readers and their parents, this book doesn't only capture the magic of Dr. Goodall's dream to study wildlife in Africa, it also contains some of the practical steps or assists she had in her childhood to get there:
1. observing local fauna such as earthworms and hens in their environment
2. having an encouraging mother who said all dreams are possible if she put in the hard work
3. borrowing book on animals from the library
4. founding a nature club with fellow kids
these are all things parents can implement with their kids too.
1. observing local fauna such as earthworms and hens in their environment
2. having an encouraging mother who said all dreams are possible if she put in the hard work
3. borrowing book on animals from the library
4. founding a nature club with fellow kids
these are all things parents can implement with their kids too.
December 26, 2023
This book tells the story of how Jane Goodall became the icon that she is. It is her journey from a child who loved animals to a scientist and activist who changed our view of animals and brought awareness to our responsibilities to the world we share with them. It also ends with an uplifting message about how we can all work together to improve things. It talks about her Roots and Shoots organization and encourages children to become involved with it
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