Discover the fascinating life of world-renowned scientist Jonas Salk, whose pioneering discoveries changed the world forever. Dr. Jonas Salk is one of the most celebrated doctors and medical researchers of the 20th century. The child of immigrants who never learned to speak English, Jonas was struck by the devastation he saw when the soldiers returned from battle after WWII. Determined to help, he worked to become a doctor and eventually joined the team that created the influenza vaccine. But Jonas wanted to do more. As polio ravaged the United States—even the president was not immune!—Jonas decided to lead the fight against this terrible disease. In 1952, Dr. Jonas Salk invented the polio vaccine, which nearly eliminated polio from this country. For the rest of his life, Dr. Salk continued to do groundbreaking medical research at the Salk Institute, leaving behind a legacy that continues to make the world a better place every day. This compelling picture book biography sheds light on Dr. Salk's groundbreaking journey and the importance of vaccination.
Author
I have always loved words. My parents said I spoke in full sentences before I was a year old. They also said I didn't walk until I was two. I was still a baby when I saw a TV commercial about a vacuum cleaner and its expandable bag. That night, my parents begged me to eat "just one more bite." I refused. Using a phrase I'd learned from the vacuum cleaner commercial, I explained, "My stomach is fully expanded." My parents laughed...and I was saved from having to eat that dreadful "one more bite." My love of words extended to foreign languages. I was one of those kids who loved school. I loved Hebrew school, too. Learning Hebrew taught me that words can be composed of roots and that those roots can change, often in predictable ways. I noticed some of the rules I'd learned in Hebrew applied to English, too. I also love word games, puzzles, and etymology, learning about the origins of words. Some of my other favorite things include being outside, exploring, and being around animals. When I was a child, I wanted a horse. I didn't get one. But when I grew up, my husband and I moved to a farm. That's where we raised our four children...and sheep, chickens, and rabbits. It's also where some of my stories are based. I also love teaching and have taught all ages, from babies through college. I've taught parents, too. When I write stories, I combine so many of the things I love. I'm always learning and exploring...and having a fabulous time!
